Northern Cyprus, a self-declared state on the northeastern part of the island, is a lesser-known but equally captivating scuba diving destination. Its clear, warm waters hold many underwater treasures waiting to be discovered, ranging from vibrant marine life to historical wrecks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
Kyrenia Reef: Located off the coast of the historic town of Kyrenia, this reef is teeming with marine life. Due to the depth and currents, it's more suitable for experienced divers.
Zeyko Shipwreck: This site features a 1980s shipwreck sitting upright on the seabed. It's an interesting dive for those with experience, offering a close look at the marine life that now calls the wreck home.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
Alagadi Turtle Beach: This site offers an excellent opportunity for beginners to witness the marine biodiversity of Northern Cyprus. It's also a popular spot for sea turtles, adding to its charm.
Escape Reef: Located near Escape Beach, this site offers calm waters and a variety of marine life, making it an ideal choice for new divers.
Marine Life
The marine life in Northern Cyprus is diverse and vibrant. Divers can expect to encounter groupers, sea breams, octopuses, and various species of sea turtles. During the right season, you might also see stingrays and moray eels.
Dive Conditions
Northern Cyprus offers pleasant diving conditions throughout the year. The water temperature ranges between 16-28°C (61-82°F), with visibility often extending up to 30 meters (98 feet). The seas are generally calm, providing a relaxing diving experience.
Cost
The cost of scuba diving in Northern Cyprus is relatively affordable. A single boat dive typically costs around €50, including equipment rental. PADI certification courses are also available, ranging from €350 for the Open Water Diver course up to €500 for the Advanced Open Water Diver course.
Northern Cyprus, with its excellent dive sites and captivating marine life, promises a memorable diving experience for both experienced and beginner divers alike.