About this spot
The Zenobia wreck is Cyprus's most famous dive site and one of the Mediterranean's most accessible large-ship wrecks. The vessel sank in 1980 after listing heavily to starboard in relatively shallow water just 10 kilometres off Larnaca. At 172 metres long, it's a substantial structure with multiple levels to explore: the bridge, officer's quarters, cargo holds, and engine room are all reachable by qualified divers. The wreck sits upright with its starboard side down, creating a natural descent line from the bow. Divers can enter the superstructure, though the vessel's age means some sections are unstable. The shallowest parts sit around 16 metres; the deepest sections exceed 42 metres. Strong currents can develop, particularly around the stern, making this a site for divers with solid navigation and buoyancy control. The Zenobia attracts both wreck specialists and technical divers. Fish life includes grouper, amberjack, and barracuda. Mooring buoys are installed, and dive operators in Larnaca run regular trips year-round. The wreck has minimal silting in accessible areas, though penetration into tight spaces requires training and experience. Conditions and visibility vary seasonally, so planning a trip with a local operator ensures current weather and water data.
📖 Guide: Diving in Cyprus: 20 Sites from Wrecks to Walls
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type G · 240V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 48%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive the Zenobia?
The Zenobia is diveable year-round, but conditions vary. Summer typically offers calmer seas; winter can bring stronger surge. Check with Larnaca dive operators before booking to confirm current visibility and current.
›What diving level is required for the Zenobia?
The Zenobia is an advanced dive site. You need solid buoyancy control, navigation skills, and deep-diving experience. Wreck-specific training is strongly recommended if you plan to penetrate the interior.
›What marine life will I see on the Zenobia?
Grouper, amberjack, barracuda, and smaller reef fish live around the wreck. Octopus and moray eels hide in crevices. Pelagics occasionally patrol the site. The wreck itself is also colonised by soft coral and anemones.
›How do I get to the Zenobia and do I need permits?
Dives depart from Larnaca via licensed dive operators running regular guided trips. No special permits are needed for recreational diving. Book with a reputable operator who knows the mooring system and current conditions.
