What could be better than a summer vacation by the sea? Only a vacation by the “colored seas,” whose names sound like they’re from a fairy tale. Surprisingly, you can actually find seas named after flowers on the map.
Let’s explore why they’re called that and what secrets they hold.
The Red Sea is a pearl between Asia and Africa
The Red Sea
The Red Sea belongs to the Indian Ocean basin and washes the coasts of Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. It is one of the warmest and most transparent seas on the planet, with water temperatures above +22 °C all year round.
Why is it “red”?
According to one version, the name comes from the microscopic red algae that give the water an unusual color.
According to another version, the name comes from the reddish mountains and cliffs that are reflected in the water.
There is also a legend that ancient cartographers used colors to represent the cardinal directions, with “red” representing the south.
The Red Sea is a paradise for divers, with some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world.
The Yellow Sea – the mystery of the Celestial Empire
The Yellow Sea
The Yellow Sea is a part of the Pacific Ocean, washing the shores of China and the Korean Peninsula.
Where is the “yellow” color?
The main reason is the Yellow River, which carries a huge amount of silt. During dust storms and floods, the sea takes on a murky yellow-brown hue.
This makes the water unsuitable for swimming, but it is home to famous resorts such as Beidaihe and Qingdao.
Today, the Yellow Sea is not only a recreational destination but also an important part of the global economy, with its busy maritime routes.
The Black Sea is a southern resort of Russia
The Black Sea
The Black Sea ishes the shores of Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania and Georgia. Its waters seem habitually blue and clean, but why is it “black”?
There are several versions:
Sailors have noticed that the water darkens dramatically before a storm, turning almost black.
In ancient times, the sea was treacherous, with frequent storms and battles that claimed lives, earning it a dark name.
Scientists add that in the depths of the sea, where there is no oxygen, layers of hydrogen sulfide form, making the water appear dark.
Today, the Black Sea is a popular destination for beach vacations, particularly in the resorts of the Krasnodar Territory and Crimea.
The White Sea is Russia’s Arctic Jewel
The White Sea
The White Sea is Russia’s inland sea, part of the Arctic Ocean. It is only about 340 meters deep, and even in summer, the water rarely warms up above +16°C.
Why “white”?
In winter and spring, it is covered with snow-white ice.
Often, fog and snow give the sea a milky hue.
This is one of the most “northern” seas, where you can see whales, walruses, and thousands of migratory birds. The White Sea is not a resort, but it is majestic in its own way.
Is the Blue Sea a myth or a reality?
Is the Blue Sea a myth or a reality?
The Blue Sea is often mentioned in lists of “colored seas.” In fact, it is a poetic name for various parts of the Mediterranean Sea, especially near the coasts of Turkey and Greece, where the water is remarkably clear and has a turquoise hue. In older sources, the “Blue” or “Dark Blue” Sea is often referred to as a collective image.
The Green Sea is a rare mention
The Green Sea in China
Sometimes the Green Sea is included in the list of the “6 Colored Seas.” Scientists believe that this name has been given to areas of the South China Sea where the water appears green due to algae and a sandy bottom.
Why are seas called “colored”?
There are three main reasons:
- Natural features — algae, minerals, silt, and ice cover change the color of the water.
- Historical legends — sailors and merchants named seas based on associations with danger, weather, or events.
- Color symbolism – In ancient cultures, color was associated with the cardinal directions (e.g., “black” for north, “red” for south).
Summary: How many “colored seas” are there?
The most common reference is to the five colored seas:
- Red
- Yellow
- Black
- White
- Green or Blue (depending on the tradition).
A vacation by the colored seas is always a story with a legend. Now, when you plan a trip, you will know that behind each name lies its own mystery of nature and culture.
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Frequent questions about colored seas (FAQ)
1. How many colored seas are there in total?
Most often, they talk about five: Red, Yellow, Black, White, and Green (or Blue).
2. Why is the Red Sea called that?
Because of the red algae and the reflection of the rocks, as well as because in ancient times, “red” symbolized the south.
3. Is it true that the Black Sea is really black?
No, it’s blue on sunny days. However, before a storm, the water turns dark gray, and in ancient times, the sea was known for its treachery and dangerous storms.
4. Is it possible to swim in the Yellow Sea?
Yes, although the water is often cloudy due to silt and storms. The resorts of Beidaihe and Qingdao are located on its shores.
5. Is the White Sea a resort?
No, it’s an Arctic sea with cold water. However, you can observe whales, seals, and northern birds here.
