Scuba Diving in Cyprus, Including the Zenobia Wreck

Discovering Cyprus's Underwater World

Cyprus, an island blessed with crystal-clear waters and a rich underwater landscape, is a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. The Mediterranean Sea surrounding the island boasts excellent visibility, warm temperatures for much of the year, and a diverse range of dive sites catering to both beginners and experienced divers. From vibrant reefs and ancient archaeological remains to intriguing shipwrecks, the Cypriot underwater world promises memorable adventures.

The Zenobia Wreck: A World-Class Dive

Undoubtedly, the crown jewel of Cypriot diving is the MS Zenobia shipwreck, located just off the coast of Larnaca. Often ranked among the top ten wreck dives globally, the Zenobia was a Swedish roll-on/roll-off ferry that sank on its maiden voyage in 1980. It now rests on its port side at depths ranging from approximately 16 to 42 metres, making it accessible to advanced open water divers and above. The sheer size of the wreck, almost 172 metres long, is awe-inspiring. Much of its cargo, including lorries and their contents, remains in the holds, creating a surreal underwater museum. Divers can explore the upper decks, the bridge, the accommodation areas, and for those with appropriate training, venture into the spacious car decks. Over the decades, the Zenobia has become an artificial reef, attracting an abundance of marine life. Large groupers, barracuda, amberjacks, and various smaller fish species have made the wreck their home, adding to the allure of this extraordinary dive.

Dive Sites for Every Skill Level

While the Zenobia is a major draw, Cyprus offers a multitude of other captivating dive locations. For those new to diving or seeking shallower, more relaxed experiences, sites around Ayia Napa and Protaras are ideal. These areas feature calm, sheltered bays with gently sloping sandy bottoms and rocky formations. Popular spots include the Green Bay in Protaras, known for its friendly turtles and underwater statues, and various coves around Cape Greco, offering swim-throughs and small caves. These sites are excellent for discovery dives, try dives, and open water training, providing a safe and beautiful environment to learn.

Advertisement

The coastline near Paphos also offers a variety of interesting dives. The White Star wreck, a small cargo ship, lies at a depth of around 20 metres and is suitable for open water divers. Another notable site is the Amphorae Caves, a series of natural caverns and tunnels adorned with ancient pottery shards, hinting at the island's long maritime history. The waters around Coral Bay also provide pleasant reef diving opportunities with good visibility.

Further west, towards the Akamas Peninsula, the diving becomes more rugged and adventurous. While some areas are protected and require special permits, the general vicinity offers dramatic underwater topography, including walls, caves, and deeper reefs, often frequented by larger pelagic species. Latchi and Polis Chrysochous serve as excellent bases for exploring these western dive sites.

Marine Life Encounters

Cyprus's clear waters are home to a surprisingly diverse array of Mediterranean marine life. Divers can expect to encounter various species of bream, wrasse, damselfish, and parrotfish. Moray eels and octopuses are common residents of rocky crevices and shipwrecks. Keep an eye out for larger species such as barracuda, groupers, and amberjacks, particularly around wrecks and deeper reefs. Loggerhead and Green sea turtles are frequently sighted, especially in the eastern parts of the island, and encountering these graceful creatures is always a highlight. While less common, dolphins occasionally make an appearance, adding to the magic of a Cypriot dive.

Choosing a Dive Centre

Cyprus has a well-developed diving infrastructure with numerous professional dive centres operating across the island, particularly in the main tourist areas of Larnaca, Ayia Napa, Protaras, Limassol, and Paphos. These centres offer a full range of services, including introductory dives (Discover Scuba Diving), PADI and SSI certification courses from Open Water Diver to advanced and professional levels, guided dives for certified divers, and equipment rental. When choosing a dive centre, look for those with good safety records, experienced instructors, and well-maintained equipment. It's always advisable to check reviews and ensure they are affiliated with recognised international diving organisations.

Practical Diving Tips for Cyprus

• Best Time to Dive: The diving season in Cyprus typically runs from April to November, with water temperatures ranging from 19°C in spring and autumn to a comfortable 28°C in summer.
• Visibility: Expect excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 metres, especially outside of strong winds or recent rainfall.
• Wetsuits: A 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient for most of the season, though a 3mm might be comfortable in peak summer.
• Certification: Always carry your diving certification card and logbook.
• Safety: Listen carefully to your dive brief, stay within your training limits, and never dive alone.
• Local Regulations: Be aware of local diving regulations, especially concerning marine protected areas.
• Booking: It's recommended to book your dives or courses in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.