ZENOBIA - Larnaca

The Zenobia isn't just a wreck, it's a small city under the sea. She sank in '80, just a year old, and now sits on her port side at 40 metres, her starboard flank reaching up to 16. We love the sheer scale of the thing. You can swim through the upper car deck, past the ghost trucks and their cargo, or peer into the canteen where plates still sit stacked. We'd suggest at least two dives to really get a feel for her, maybe more if you want to penetrate deeper into the lower car deck or the bridge. Look out for the resident groupers, the barracuda patrolling the mast, and the thousands of lionfish that have made the Zenobia their home. Visibility here is consistently good, often pushing 30 metres, which makes the enormity of the wreck even more striking as you descend. It’s a site that rewards repeat visits, offering new perspectives and details each time.

Location
Larnaca, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
34.897697, 33.657352
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: MPA Zenobia Shipwreck

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 ZENOBIA

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 ZENOBIA

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 maximum and minimum depths of the Zenobia wreck for divers?
The Zenobia wreck reaches a maximum depth of 40m. While the specific minimum depth (e.g., the shallowest point of the wreck) is not detailed in the provided data, divers can expect the structure to rise significantly from the seabed. This depth makes it a compelling dive for appropriately certified individuals.
What marine life and unique features, such as the cargo, can divers expect to see at the Zenobia wreck?
The Zenobia wreck itself is the primary unique feature, a substantial 171.9m x 22.9m roll on-roll off vessel that sank in 1980. The provided data does not specify particular marine life or details about its cargo that divers can expect to see. For general information on marine species, you might consult our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the Zenobia wreck, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the Zenobia wreck is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. This means it is generally not suitable for beginner divers, who typically require simpler conditions and shallower depths. Divers should possess adequate experience and training to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year to dive the Zenobia wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Zenobia wreck for optimal conditions or visibility. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to explore the Zenobia wreck, especially for deeper sections or penetration?
Given the Zenobia wreck's depth of 40m and intermediate difficulty, divers typically need an advanced open water certification or equivalent. For exploring deeper sections or engaging in wreck penetration, specialized wreck diving certifications are generally required to ensure safety and proper technique, though specific certification names are not detailed in the provided information.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, at the Zenobia dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical water conditions, such as currents or visibility, at the Zenobia dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on prevailing conditions.