Real-life Sea Monsters and their Stories of Survival

Around the world, sailors from ancient times onwards have told stories of colossal, deep-sea creatures that capsized ships and terrorised crews. Far from home, and often venturing into the unknown, it's no wonder sailors put the dangers they faced down to the threat from sinister sea beasts. The oceans are mysterious places, and the deep-sea is one of the last places on Earth to be explored. So, while there may be no such thing as a sea serpent or mermaid, there are plenty of other weird and wonderful creatures lurking down there. Some of these real-life animals are the inspiration behind the sea monsters of myth. Others are so fantastical in their own right, it's difficult to believe that they actually exist.