MEGISTI - Larnaca

The Megisti, just a stone's throw from Larnaca, isn't your average deep wreck. It’s barely a wreck at all, in fact. We love this site for its sheer accessibility and the fantastic story behind it. This old steamship ran aground in a storm way back in 1968, and while it was declared a total loss, parts of that 89-meter hull are still right there, hugging the surface. What you get here is a unique, shallow exploration. Think of it as an open-air history lesson. Snorkelers and very new divers will appreciate being able to fin right over the remnants, seeing how the light plays on the metal. We’ve found huge schools of juvenile damselfish flitting around the rusted plates, and sometimes a curious octopus will peek out from under a twisted beam. It’s more of a gentle drift over history than a penetration dive, perfect for getting comfortable in the water while still experiencing a genuine wreck. We'd suggest aiming for a calm morning; the visibility is usually excellent then, and you can really make out the ship’s impressive scale even in the shallows.

Location
Larnaca, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.556667, 35.741000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

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 MEGISTI

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 MEGISTI

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 are the typical diving depths at Megisti dive sites?
The Megisti dive site, a fascinating steamship wreck, is located at a very shallow depth of 1 meter. This makes the wreck an accessible and unique site for divers interested in exploring historical vessels.
What kind of marine life and underwater attractions can divers expect to see when diving in Megisti?
When diving at Megisti, divers can expect to explore the impressive remains of a steamship vessel, built in 1928 and sunk in 1968. This 89.3m x 13.4m wreck, classified as showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, serves as the main underwater attraction. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various marine species over time.
How challenging are the dive sites around Megisti, and are they suitable for beginner divers?
The Megisti dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. While its shallow depth of 1 meter might seem appealing, the nature of a wreck dive often requires more experience than a beginner might possess. Therefore, it is generally more suitable for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Megisti for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Megisti dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general information on diving seasons in Larnaca, Cyprus, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for broader regional insights.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in Megisti?
The specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the Megisti wreck are not detailed in the provided information. Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should typically possess at least an Open Water Diver certification and consider additional training for wreck diving if planning any penetration. It's always best to check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like for diving around Megisti?
Information regarding the typical water conditions and currents for diving around the Megisti dive site is not available in the provided data. Divers should always consult with local dive centers for up-to-date information on site conditions before planning their dive.