Cyprus boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year, which means your diving plans are almost never getting canceled due to weather.
The water is warm, clear, and welcoming for both beginners and experienced divers. The island’s strategic location also means you’ll encounter a fascinating blend of Mediterranean marine life.
Must-Visit Dive Sites
- Zenobia Wreck: This is the crown jewel of diving in Cyprus. The Zenobia is a Swedish roll-on, roll-off ferry that sank in 1980. Now, it’s a scuba paradise! With depths ranging from 16 to 42 meters, there’s something for everyone. Schools of barracuda, groupers, and even the occasional turtle can be spotted here.
- Green Bay: Perfect for beginners, Green Bay is a shallow dive where you can spot octopuses and seahorses. Plus, there’s a series of underwater statues that make for amazing Insta shots.
- Cape Greco: Want caves? You got ’em. Cape Greco has underwater caverns and tunnels that are just begging to be explored.
- Blue Hole and Chimney: Near Ayia Napa, this site features a narrow tunnel opening up into a ‘Blue Hole’. The sunlight piercing through the water creates a magical atmosphere.
- St. George Island: If you’re up for a boat trip, head to St. George Island off the coast of Paphos. It’s a hotspot for diverse marine life, including tuna and jacks.
What You’ll See
Apart from the haunting beauty of shipwrecks and caverns, you’ll likely encounter moray eels, amberjacks, nudibranchs, and, if you’re lucky, the graceful sea turtles.
Best Time to Dive
While diving is accessible year-round, the best months are from May to October.
The water temperature hovers between 27-30°C (80-86°F), which is pretty much like diving in a warm, cozy bathtub!
Practical Tips
- Certification: Many dive shops offer PADI or SSI courses. If you’re a newbie, you can even try a Discover Scuba Diving experience.
- Equipment: Most dive centers have gear to rent, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own mask and snorkel for comfort and hygiene.
- Safety First: Always follow your guide’s instructions, check your equipment, and never exceed your training or comfort zone.
- Environment: Cyprus is beautiful; let’s keep it that way. Practice good buoyancy and don’t touch or collect marine life.
Diving Schools in Cyprus
The Cyprus Diving Association lists all the accredited diving schools on their website here.
Whether you’re into shipwrecks, caves, or just hanging out with the fish, Cyprus has got you covered.