ABDULLAH H - Larnaca

The Abdullah H is one of those wrecks that just clicks. It’s a shallow affair, sitting bolt upright at just 7 metres, making it perfect for a long, relaxed dive, even with newer divers in tow. We love swimming the length of its 57-metre deck, imagining its cargo days. What makes it special for us is the accessibility of its main hold, now an open-top box teeming with fish. You can fin right inside, watching schools of juvenile barracuda dart around, their silver scales flashing in the shafts of sunlight. Look closely at the hull and deck plates, they’re caked in a thick velvet of marine growth, home to dozens of nudibranchs if you have a keen eye. Octopus often hide in the darker recesses, peering out from beneath corroded metal sheets. It’s a gentle introduction to wreck diving, with plenty of character and minimal fuss.

Location
Larnaca, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.533333, 35.768333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Wreck History - ABDULLAH H

Year Sunk
1988
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
unknown

The vessel known as the Abdullah H had a long and varied career, reflecting the dynamic nature of global shipping. Built in Spain in 1967 as the Condercorado, it sailed under at least five different names over two decades, including Jean Marie, Mesc Pioneer, and Ayman, before being christened Abdullah H in 1988. This final chapter of its life was short-lived, as the carrier sank off Larnaca, Cyprus, in August of that same year, bringing its 21-year service to an abrupt end.

Resting in the clear, shallow waters at just 7 meters, the Abdullah H is an exceptionally accessible wreck. Its shallow depth makes it an ideal site for novice wreck divers, training dives, and even snorkelers on a calm day. While the years underwater have caused the structure to break down, it still presents a fascinating collection of wreckage to explore. Divers can easily swim through and around the scattered remains, observing how nature has transformed this former workhorse of the sea into a home for local marine life.

Best Time to Dive in Larnaca

The warmest water temperatures in Larnaca occur in January, averaging 18.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 18.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.5°C (air: 13.1°C)
  • February: 18.5°C (air: 12.9°C)
  • March: 18.5°C (air: 14.7°C)
  • April: 18.5°C (air: 19.1°C)
  • May: 18.5°C (air: 23.0°C)
  • June: 18.5°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • July: 18.5°C (air: 29.9°C)
  • August: 18.5°C (air: 29.4°C)
  • September: 18.5°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • October: 18.5°C (air: 23.9°C)
  • November: 18.5°C (air: 18.8°C)
  • December: 18.5°C (air: 15.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Larnaca

Nearest Dive Centres to ABDULLAH H

Marine Life in Larnaca

Home to 54 recorded species including 32 reef fish, 9 sharks & rays, 4 whales & dolphins, 3 hard corals, 2 other, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ABDULLAH H

Based on average water temperature of 18.5°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°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 is the maximum depth for diving at King Abdullah Reef?
The maximum depth for diving at the ABDULLAH H wreck, which is the site likely referred to as King Abdullah Reef, is 7 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it an accessible dive for many skill levels.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at King Abdullah Reef?
Our current data for the ABDULLAH H wreck does not specify the types of marine life or corals divers can expect to encounter. For general information on marine species, you can explore our wildlife database.
Is King Abdullah Reef considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginners?
The ABDULLAH H wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not typically recommended for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training should find it manageable.
What is the best time of year to dive King Abdullah Reef for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Our available data for the ABDULLAH H wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please consult our when to dive section.
What dive certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at King Abdullah Reef?
Given that the ABDULLAH H wreck is classified as an intermediate dive, an Open Water Diver certification is usually the minimum requirement. However, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is highly recommended to enhance your skills and comfort for such dives.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at King Abdullah Reef?
Our current data for the ABDULLAH H wreck does not provide specific details on usual current or visibility conditions. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive.