Cyprus offers ideal conditions for diving: a warm climate with a beach season that lasts most of the year, numerous professional dive centers, an intriguing underwater world, and a fascinating seabed topography. Dive centers operate in all major resorts across Cyprus, attracting thousands of diving enthusiasts annually.
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Why Diving in Cyprus is Great
Thanks to the comfortable water temperature (16°C in winter and 28°C in summer), diving in Cyprus is possible for most of the year. The best period for diving is from May to November.
The island is highly popular among Russian divers, so many dive centers have Russian-speaking instructors. Cyprus offers something for everyone, from professional divers to beginners. Those new to diving can learn the basics with the help of experienced instructors at local dive centers.
Cyprus is home to many underwater attractions that experienced divers will find fascinating. The most popular is the sunken Swedish ferry, Zenobia. Additionally, there are several other intriguing shipwrecks. While the waters of Cyprus may not be as rich in marine life as some other locations, there are still plenty of interesting sea creatures to see, including moray eels, starfish, pipefish, and various tropical fish species.
The Best Diving Spots in Cyprus
Diving in Larnaca
Larnaca hosts some of the most popular dive centers and diving spots. Near the city lies the legendary sunken ferry, Zenobia, which is 160 meters long and weighs about 10,500 tons. Exploring this massive and mysterious wreck is a true adventure.
Other interesting dives include the sunken cruiser HMS Cricket, resting at a depth of 30 meters and dating back to World War II, as well as a British helicopter located 16 meters underwater.
Another diving spot in Larnaca is Octopus Reef, an ideal location for beginners due to its easy dive and picturesque underwater scenery. Divers can explore depths of up to 10 meters and enjoy the vibrant marine life.
There is also a mushroom-shaped underwater rock formation, where more experienced divers can dive to a depth of 50 meters.
Diving in Ayia Napa
One of the most frequently visited diving spots in Cyprus is Green Bay in Ayia Napa. The bay’s seabed is home to sunken ships, as well as numerous mysterious grottoes and caves that are fascinating to explore.
Diving in Paphos
Paphos boasts many historical landmarks and ancient structures, some of which are found underwater. Divers should explore the Amphora Reef area, where the remains of ancient galleys and triremes lie on the seabed. The recommended dive depth is up to 10 meters. Another intriguing spot is the rocky area known as Devil’s Hair, featuring a beautiful seabed with intricate coral formations.
Diving in Limassol and Pissouri
One of the most interesting dive sites in these areas is Big Country, featuring multi-layered rocks with caves and shelters for marine life. This mysterious and picturesque spot is located at a depth of 23 meters. Divers interested in exploring Cyprus’s underwater world and seabed topography should also visit sites like Caverns & Caves (underwater caves teeming with marine life), Tombs (caves at 12 meters that resemble ancient tombs), and Archways & Pinnacles.
There are also several sunken ships in the area: Cooper (9 meters), M.V. Habe (9 meters), Phrases II (21 meters), and Three Star (7 meters).
Experienced divers might also be interested in exploring Cape Greco, with dives up to 16 meters deep to explore local caves, as well as the dive centers Canyon and Chapel, offering dives up to 40 meters. In Protaras, divers can explore the sunken vessel Nemesis III, resting at a depth of 23 meters near the Parnera Beach area.
Diving Costs in Cyprus
The cost of a dive depends on its complexity, the equipment used, and any additional services, such as hotel transfers to the dive site. On average, a dive at Zenobia costs around €90 for two dives in one day. A night dive costs about €45.
In Ayia Napa, diving costs around €30 during the day and €40 at night. Equipment rental ranges from €30 to €130.
