3 top diving sites in Cyprus
Cyprus is a diver’s paradise. From shallow snorkeling beach spots to 20-metre-deep caverns, the island is ideal when it comes to exploration opportunities. With superb diving temperatures year-round, crystal clear waters, and the right wetsuit you are all set to dive! Read on for our three best spots for your ultimate diving experience.
Alexandra Wreck Diving Site
Situated in Larnaca Bay, Alexandra Wreck diving site can be accessed by boat. The wreck is in 32 meters depth and the Advanced Open Water (AOW) qualification is required. The site features the same marine life with schools of fish including grouper, barracuda, kingfish, jacks and trigger fish, as well as moray eels, stingrays, turtles and octopus.
One interesting fact is that the Alexandra was a wooden Egyptian fishing vessel that sank in 2006 and measures 37 metres across.
Amathunta Diving Site
The Amathunta diving site is located in Limassol at the Amathus area. This was the first and largest artificial reef created on the island in 2009. The 2.5 kilometre square area of the reef was constructed with concrete blocks and has four pyramids forming a square, with approximately another 100 concrete blocks distributed around the site.
It is in 18-35 metres depth. In order to able to explore it, you will need to have the Open Water (OW) qualification. It can be accessed by boat or shore.
This unusual and interesting artificial reef attracts groupers, moray eels, bream and bass, as well as octopus. Lucky divers may also spot Green and Loggerhead turtles.
Akrotiri Peninsula Diving Site
Located in the area of Akrotiri in Limassol, the Akrotiri Fish Reserve and the dive sites of Shark Coves and Twin Rocks are in 9-20 metres depth and be accessed only by boat.
Collectively, they are home to groupers, moray eels, bream and bass, as well as octopus. You can occasionally spot Green and Loggerhead turtles at Sharks Coves and Twin Rocks, along with the occasional Mediterranean Seal.
One interesting fact is that the visibility of the area’s waters is always excellent, and there are often good currents for drift diving.
Explore Cyprus and its diving sites while staying at The Royal Apollonia in Limassol, only 45 minutes away from Paphos and Larnaca.