Larnaca, the third-largest city in Cyprus, holds a special charm for scuba divers. Known for its palm-lined promenade, beautiful beaches, and the country's main airport, Larnaca also offers some of the most exceptional diving experiences in Cyprus, including one of the world's top wreck dives.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
Zenobia Wreck: Named one of the best wreck diving sites worldwide, the Zenobia is a paradise for experienced divers. The ferry capsized and sank in 1980, now resting on its side at a depth of 42 meters. Divers can explore the cargo of over 100 trucks that went down with the ship.
Alexandria Wreck: This is a relatively newer dive site, as the Alexandria, a fishing vessel, sank in 2006. Resting at a depth of 30 meters, the wreck is now home to a thriving array of marine life.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
Mckenzie Beach: A perfect spot for beginners, the shallow and calm waters at Mckenzie Beach are ideal for first-time divers. The site offers a wide variety of marine life, making it an exciting starting point.
Pyla Sea Caves: A fascinating location where beginners can explore the beautiful underwater caves. The site is home to a variety of aquatic species and the depth ranges from 10-12 meters.
Marine Life
The waters around Larnaca teem with marine life such as groupers, octopuses, barracudas, and a variety of colourful reef fish. The wrecks have become artificial reefs, attracting a plethora of underwater creatures. In the summer, divers can also encounter turtles and stingrays.
Dive Conditions
Larnaca enjoys excellent diving conditions all year round. The water temperature varies between 16-27°C (60-80°F), and the visibility often exceeds 30 meters (100 feet). Cyprus's calm waters provide a comfortable environment, particularly beneficial for new divers.
Cost
The cost of diving in Larnaca varies depending on the dive's nature and the level of service. A typical single tank boat dive, including equipment, costs around €60-70. Prices for diving courses begin from approximately €300 for a PADI Open Water Diver certification.
Larnaca is a dream come true for scuba divers, providing fantastic opportunities for both novice and experienced divers. Its rich marine life, excellent visibility, and historical wrecks make it a top choice for diving in the Mediterranean.