PAROS - Istria Peninsula

The PAROS wreck, resting upright at a shallow 12 metres, is a solid choice for a relaxed dive in Istria. This former motor vessel, sunk after a collision back in 1979, is fairly intact, offering good penetration points if you’re properly trained and equipped. We’ve found the hold and engine room particularly interesting, with light filtering through where the superstructure has started to break down. Schools of damselfish often flit through the interior, while scorpionfish camouflage themselves on the hull. It’s a comfortable dive, rarely impacted by strong currents, making it suitable for newer wreck divers or those looking for a longer bottom time without pushing depth limits.

Location
Istria Peninsula, Croatia, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
44.491222, 12.359555
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

Best Time to Dive in Istria Peninsula

The warmest water temperatures in Istria Peninsula occur in August, averaging 26.1°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 11.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 13.5°C
  • February: 11.9°C
  • March: 11.8°C
  • April: 13.4°C
  • May: 17.0°C
  • June: 22.4°C
  • July: 25.6°C
  • August: 26.1°C
  • September: 23.6°C
  • October: 20.3°C
  • November: 17.8°C
  • December: 15.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Istria Peninsula

Nearest Dive Centres to PAROS

Marine Life in Istria Peninsula

Home to 48 recorded species including 28 reef fish, 7 sharks & rays, 3 other, 2 crabs & lobsters, 2 octopus & squid, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for PAROS

Based on average water temperature of 18.3°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 18°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at dive sites around Paros?
The Paros wreck, a motor vessel, is found at a depth of 12m. This makes it an accessible dive for those with intermediate experience. The wreck itself is quite substantial, measuring 64.9m x 11m.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can I expect to see when diving in Paros?
When diving at Paros, you can expect to explore the impressive remains of a motor vessel, measuring 64.9m x 11m. This wreck, sunk in 1979, serves as a fascinating underwater feature. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often attract various species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
Is scuba diving in Paros suitable for beginners, or is it mostly for experienced divers?
Scuba diving at the Paros wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is generally more suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications. Beginners might find the conditions or the nature of a wreck dive challenging.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Paros for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Paros. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you can explore our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive in Paros, especially for different dive sites?
Given that the Paros wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess certifications that align with this level of experience. While the 12m depth is within typical Open Water limits, the "dangerous wreck" classification might suggest additional training or experience is highly recommended. Always check with local dive operators for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical water conditions, visibility, and currents like for diving around Paros?
The provided data for the Paros wreck does not include specific details regarding typical water conditions, visibility, or currents. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for the most current information on these factors.