The Ultimate Guide To Scuba Diving In Cyprus: Top Dive Sites And Experiences

By Author: Stephen Theakston
Total Articles: 16
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Cyprus is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of dive sites that cater to both beginners and experienced divers. With its crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and fascinating underwater landscapes, the island has become a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty beneath the Mediterranean Sea. From ancient wrecks to dramatic underwater caves, scuba diving in Cyprus promises an array of unforgettable experiences.

One of the most famous dive sites in Cyprus is the Zenobia wreck, located off the coast of Larnaca. Often regarded as one of the top wreck dives in the world, the Zenobia is a sunken Swedish ferry that lies at a depth of 18 to 42 metres. This massive ship, which sank in 1980, is teeming with marine life, including barracuda, groupers, and moray eels. The sheer size of the wreck, combined with the cargo of trucks still on board, makes it a fascinating site to explore for advanced divers.

For those interested in underwater caves and tunnels, the Caves of Cape Greco are a must-visit. Situated near Ayia Napa, this site features a network of swim-throughs ...
... and caverns that create an exciting and atmospheric dive. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing divers to fully appreciate the intricate rock formations and the colourful marine life that inhabits the area. The caves are relatively shallow, making them accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
Another highlight of diving in Cyprus is the Jubilee Shoals, one of the island's hidden gems. This deep dive site is located off the southern coast and features dramatic underwater cliffs that descend to depths of around 55 metres. The site is known for its large cave at 36 metres, as well as its rich marine biodiversity. Advanced divers will find the descent into Jubilee Shoals thrilling, with the possibility of encountering amberjack, tuna, and barracuda.

For beginners or those seeking a more relaxed dive, the Green Bay in Protaras offers an ideal environment. The shallow waters, with a maximum depth of around 12 metres, are perfect for novice divers to get accustomed to scuba diving while exploring the underwater statues and rock formations. The site is home to a variety of fish species, including bream, wrasse, and octopus, making it an excellent spot for underwater photography.

Lima Rock is another popular dive site, located off the coast of the Akamas Peninsula. This site offers a range of depths, from 12 metres to over 40 metres, catering to divers of all skill levels. Lima Rock is known for its steep drop-offs, caves, and vibrant marine life, including barracudas, rays, and sea turtles. The currents around the rock can be strong, adding an extra element of excitement for more experienced divers.

Amphorae Caves, near Paphos, provides a unique diving experience with its ancient relics. This site is named after the numerous amphorae, or clay jars, scattered across the seabed, remnants of ancient shipwrecks that date back centuries. Divers can explore the shallow caves and swim-throughs while observing a variety of marine life, such as parrotfish and octopus. The historical significance of the site adds a sense of wonder, transporting divers back to a time when these waters were a hub of maritime activity.

Scuba diving in Cyprus is not limited to natural formations and wrecks. Artificial reefs have been created around the island to promote marine biodiversity and offer new sites for divers to explore. The Elpida wreck, an artificial reef near Larnaca, was intentionally sunk in 2019 and has since become a haven for marine life. Divers can navigate the decks and cargo holds of this sunken vessel, which lies at depths between 18 and 30 metres.

One of the advantages of diving in Cyprus is the excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 metres, particularly in the summer months. The warm Mediterranean climate ensures that water temperatures remain comfortable throughout the diving season, typically ranging from 16°C in winter to 27°C in summer. These conditions make Cyprus an appealing destination for diving holidays, offering the chance to explore a variety of sites in optimal conditions.

Night diving is another exciting aspect of scuba diving in Cyprus. Many of the island's dive sites can be explored after dark, offering a completely different underwater experience. The nocturnal marine life, including cuttlefish, octopus, and lobsters, becomes more active at night, providing divers with the opportunity to witness behaviours that are rarely seen during the day. The thrill of navigating the underwater world by torchlight adds an extra layer of adventure to the dive.

For those interested in marine conservation, Cyprus offers opportunities to participate in dive initiatives that focus on protecting the underwater environment. Various organisations and dive centres around the island are involved in clean-up operations, reef monitoring, and efforts to preserve marine biodiversity. Engaging in these activities not only enhances the diving experience but also contributes to the conservation of Cyprus' marine ecosystems.

Cyprus' rich underwater heritage is complemented by its diverse marine life. The island's waters are home to numerous fish species, as well as octopus, moray eels, and even sea turtles. Divers may also encounter schools of barracuda, jacks, and occasional dolphins, adding an element of excitement to each dive. The interplay of light, water, and marine creatures creates a captivating scene that is as rewarding as it is memorable.

Safety is a key consideration when scuba diving in Cyprus. The island is home to many reputable dive centres that provide guided dives, training courses, and equipment rentals. These centres are staffed by experienced instructors who are knowledgeable about the local dive sites and conditions, ensuring that divers can explore Cyprus' underwater world safely. It is recommended to dive with a certified guide, especially when visiting deeper or more complex sites like the Zenobia wreck or Jubilee Shoals.

The variety of dive sites in Cyprus means that there is something for everyone, regardless of experience level. Beginners can enjoy the shallow reefs and calm waters of Green Bay, while advanced divers can explore the deeper, more challenging sites like Lima Rock and Jubilee Shoals. The island's combination of natural beauty, historical wrecks, and artificial reefs offers a diverse range of experiences, making it an ideal destination for divers seeking adventure and exploration.

Planning a scuba diving trip to Cyprus is straightforward, thanks to the island's well-established infrastructure. Dive centres around the island offer packages that include equipment rental, guided dives, and training courses. The warm hospitality, combined with the breathtaking underwater scenery, ensures that diving in Cyprus is an experience to be cherished.
In conclusion, scuba diving in Cyprus offers a diverse and captivating underwater world, filled with thrilling dive sites and rich marine life.

From the famous Zenobia wreck to the mesmerising caves of Cape Greco, the island caters to divers of all levels, providing an unforgettable experience beneath the waves. With its excellent visibility, varied marine life, and welcoming dive community, Cyprus stands out as one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean.

About Us
Pissouri Bay Divers is a premier scuba diving centre located in the heart of Larnaca, Cyprus. We specialize in providing unforgettable diving experiences, including guided tours to the Zenobia wreck. Our team of experienced and PADI-certified instructors is committed to ensuring your safety and enjoyment, while also emphasizing the importance of conservation. Join us as we explore the wonders of the Mediterranean and discover the magic of the Zenobia wreck. For more information, kindly contact https://pissouribaydivers.com.