ARMANT - Larnaca

steam ship vessel. sunk 19790112. BUILT 1948 BY W GRAY & CO. LTD., HARTLEPOOL. OWNED AT TIME OF LOSS BY THE EGYPTIAN NAVIGATION CO. SANK IN MERSIN ROADS AFTER A FIRE. VESSEL HAD BEEN LOADING COTTON BOUND FOR VENICE & TRIES. Dimensions: 102.3m x 14.4m. Classification: Dangerous wreck.

Location
Larnaca, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.770668, 34.683000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m

Wreck History - ARMANT

Year Sunk
1979
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
fire
Tonnage
1,847 GRT

The SS Armant was a post-war steamship built in 1948 in Hartlepool, UK, for the Egyptian Navigation Company. Her final, fateful voyage began in January 1979 in Mersin, Turkey, where she was taking on a highly flammable cargo of cotton. A fire broke out deep within her holds, and despite efforts to control it, the blaze became an inferno, sealing the ship's fate. She subsequently sank in the Mersin Roads.

The story doesn't end there. The wreck was later re-floated and towed to Cyprus, where it eventually sank again just outside Larnaca. Today, the Armant lies in just 14 metres of water, making it a fantastic and accessible dive for all levels, including beginners. The shallow depth allows for long, relaxed bottom times and provides excellent natural light for underwater photographers. Divers can easily explore the ship's structure, peering into the holds that once carried the cargo that led to her demise.

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 ARMANT

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 ARMANT

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 ARMANT?
The ARMANT dive site has a maximum depth of 14 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many certified divers looking to explore its historical features.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be found at the ARMANT dive site?
The ARMANT dive site is primarily known as a fascinating wreck dive, featuring the remains of a steam ship vessel that sank in 1979. This substantial wreck measures 102.3m x 14.4m, offering extensive structures to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at ARMANT for different skill levels?
Diving at the ARMANT wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications and are comfortable with wreck diving environments.
What is the best time of year to dive at ARMANT for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at ARMANT for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in Cyprus, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at ARMANT?
Given that the ARMANT wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and a "Dangerous wreck," it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty in Wreck Diving. This ensures you have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely explore this significant historical site.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water conditions at ARMANT?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical currents, visibility, or water conditions at the ARMANT dive site. Divers should consult local dive operators in Larnaca, Cyprus for the most up-to-date information before planning their dive.