What Is the Zenobia Wreck?
The Zenobia Wreck in Larnaca, is one of the top wreck diving sites in the world, known for its incredible history, marine life, and accessibility. This sunken cargo ship lies just off the coast of Larnaca, drawing divers from across the globe who want to explore its rusting decks, eerie cargo holds, and abundant marine ecosystem.
The Zenobia was a Swedish ferry that sank in 1980 on her maiden voyage due to a malfunction in her ballast system. Now, resting at a depth of 16 to 42 meters, the wreck offers an exciting dive experience for intermediate to advanced divers. It’s an iconic Cyprus diving site, perfect for those seeking both adventure and a journey back in time.
Why Zenobia Wreck diving in Larnaca is a must-do
Diving the Zenobia Wreck is often ranked among the top ten wreck dives worldwide, and for good reasons:
- Size and Depth: The Zenobia is massive, stretching 172 meters in length. The wreck lies at depths suitable for advanced open water divers, with the top deck at 16 meters and the bottom at 42 meters.
- Unique Cargo: Over 100 trucks and lorries remain aboard, creating an otherworldly scene on the seabed. Divers can explore these vehicles, which have become home to a thriving marine ecosystem.
- Abundant Marine Life: Expect to see groupers, barracudas, moray eels, and sea turtles, along with countless smaller fish and colorful corals that now cover the wreck.
Diving conditions at Zenobia wreck
The Mediterranean waters around Cyprus offer ideal diving conditions for much of the year. Here’s what divers can expect:
- Season: The Zenobia Wreck dive site is best visited between April and November when the water temperature ranges from 17°C (63°F) in early spring to 27°C (81°F) in summer.
- Visibility: Water clarity often exceeds 20 meters (65 feet), making it easy to explore the wreck’s details.
- Certification Requirements: Due to its depth, Advanced Open Water certification is required, while penetrative dives (like exploring the crew quarters or cargo holds) need a wreck diving or deep diving specialty certification.
What You’ll See on a Zenobia Wreck Dive
The Zenobia Wreck is packed with intriguing sights for divers, from its well-preserved lorries to its living reef of marine life. Here are some of the highlights:
- Top deck and cargo hold: Discover an incredible array of trucks that lie on their sides, frozen in time and encrusted with coral and marine plants.
- Marine Species: Schools of groupers, barracudas, and parrotfish make the Zenobia Wreck their home, while you may also encounter sea turtles and octopuses in deeper sections.
- Wreck Penetration: For advanced divers, wreck penetration dives are available. You can enter the accommodation area, bridge, and other compartments, providing a thrilling and atmospheric diving experience.
Exploring Larnaca beyond the Zenobia wreck
After diving the Zenobia Wreck, Larnaca offers plenty of other attractions. Spend a day exploring Larnaca’s sandy beaches, visit the Church of Saint Lazarus, or stroll down the Larnaca Promenade for a relaxing end to your dive day.
Larnaca is an ideal base for visitors wanting to combine historical sightseeing with an unforgettable diving experience, showcasing the best that Cyprus has to offer.