Diving in Cyprus

Clear Mediterranean water, reefs, caves and historic wrecks give Cyprus a range of dives for learners and experienced divers, provided each site is matched to training and conditions.

Dive areas around Cyprus

Cyprus has caves and reefs near Ayia Napa, wreck diving around Larnaca, scenic sites off Latchi and the Akamas, deeper walls and shoals near Paphos, and a mixture of wrecks and reefs around Limassol. Conditions and access vary, so these names are starting points for research rather than a complete current site list.

Larnaca's Zenobia wreck is one of the island's best-known dive sites. Wreck penetration, deep walls, overhead spaces and strong currents require appropriate qualifications, recent experience and a plan made with a competent local dive professional.

Learning and choosing a dive centre

Warm-season conditions can make Cyprus approachable for training, but calm-looking water does not remove the need for instruction. Confirm that the centre teaches through a recognised system, maintains its equipment and assesses the diver's certification, recent experience and medical fitness.

Ask about group size, guide-to-diver ratio, emergency oxygen, communications and the nearest suitable emergency support. A centre should be willing to change a site or cancel when weather, visibility or a diver's ability makes the original plan unsuitable.

Safe dive planning

Dive with a buddy and agree depth, time, gas reserve and lost-buddy procedures before entering the water.
Use equipment you understand and complete a careful buddy check.
Keep within certification limits and include a conservative ascent and surface interval.
Avoid flying or travelling to altitude until the appropriate post-dive interval has passed.
Tell the operator about medical concerns and do not dive when unwell, exhausted or impaired.

Protecting the underwater environment

Control buoyancy so fins and equipment do not strike the seabed, wreck or cave walls. Do not remove artefacts, feed wildlife or chase animals for a photograph. Secure gauges and alternate air sources, and take litter out when it can be removed safely.

Snorkellers and other water users need similar care: use a visible entry point, stay aware of boats and weather, and avoid standing on fragile marine growth.