ACHAIOS (POSSIBLY) - Paphos & Coral Bay

Okay, the Achaios. Or what we think is the Achaios, anyway. It’s tricky because the site we dive has a similar profile to the historical wreck data, but it’s a bit shallower than some records suggest. Regardless, we love this spot for a gentle, easy dive. The whole wreck lies in just 3m of water, which makes it absolutely perfect for snorkelers or anyone keen on a really long bottom time without pushing deco limits. What you get here is the skeletal remains of a decent-sized cargo ship, lying broken up on a sandy seabed. You can trace the ribs of the hull, and some of the thicker plates are still substantial enough to provide good shelter. We’ve found barracuda often hang out in the shadowy sections, just off the main structure. Look closely for nudibranchs, especially around any parts with algal growth. Visibility here can vary, but on a good day, with the sun high, the light filtering down into the wreck is quite beautiful, illuminating the rusted metal in shades of orange and brown. It’s a completely different vibe from a deep wreck dive, more like an archaeological exploration of a forgotten hulk. We’d suggest going early in the morning before any surface chop picks up; it really helps with the ambient light and makes spotting the smaller stuff easier.

Location
Paphos & Coral Bay, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
34.604720, 32.928890
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Wreck History - ACHAIOS (POSSIBLY)

Year Sunk
1976
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

The motor vessel Achaios was built in 1932 in Porsgrunn, Norway. At the time of her loss, she was a Greek-owned vessel operated by the Akarnania Maritime Co Ltd. The uncertainty in her identification, noted by the '(POSSIBLY)' in some records, adds a layer of mystery for divers exploring her remains.

On December 3, 1976, the Achaios was on a passage from Yugoslavia to Jeddah with a full cargo of timber. While navigating the waters off Paphos, she was caught in heavy weather and ran aground. The powerful waves and rocky shoreline sealed her fate, breaking the ship apart and scattering her cargo.

Resting in just 3 meters of water, the Achaios is an incredibly accessible dive site, perfect for beginners, snorkelers, and even freedivers. Decades of exposure to the surf have left the wreck heavily broken up, but divers can still identify large sections of the hull, machinery, and the ship's boilers. The shallow, sunlit waters have allowed a vibrant ecosystem to flourish on the wreckage, making it a lively and fascinating site for an easy coastal dive.

Marine Protected Area: MPA Dasoudi

Best Time to Dive in Paphos & Coral Bay

The warmest water temperatures in Paphos & Coral Bay occur in January, averaging 18.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 18.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.1°C (air: 13.4°C)
  • February: 18.1°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • March: 18.1°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • April: 18.1°C (air: 18.4°C)
  • May: 18.1°C (air: 21.9°C)
  • June: 18.1°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • July: 18.1°C (air: 28.8°C)
  • August: 18.1°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • September: 18.1°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • October: 18.1°C (air: 23.0°C)
  • November: 18.1°C (air: 18.7°C)
  • December: 18.1°C (air: 15.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Paphos & Coral Bay

Nearest Dive Centres to ACHAIOS (POSSIBLY)

Marine Life in Paphos & Coral Bay

Home to 44 recorded species including 26 reef fish, 9 sharks & rays, 3 other, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 soft corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ACHAIOS (POSSIBLY)

Based on average water temperature of 18.1°C.

  • 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 is the actual maximum depth of the Achaios dive site, and does it vary by location (Limassol vs. Akrotiri)?
The Achaios dive site, located in Paphos & Coral Bay, Cyprus, has an actual maximum depth of 3 meters. The provided data specifically pertains to this location and does not indicate any variation in depth for other areas like Limassol or Akrotiri.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Achaios dive site?
Divers exploring the Achaios wreck can expect to see the remains of a motor vessel, built in 1932 and sunk on December 3, 1976. This substantial wreck measures 77.7m x 11.6m and is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life details are not provided in the current data, you can explore general marine species in our wildlife database.
What is the recommended certification level or difficulty for diving the Achaios wreck?
The Achaios wreck is classified as an "intermediate" difficulty dive site. This suggests that divers should possess a foundational level of experience beyond entry-level certification to safely and enjoyably explore the site.
What is the best time of year to dive the Achaios site for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Achaios dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, please consult our when to dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications or permits required to dive the Achaios wreck, especially in the British Sovereign Base Area?
The provided data does not contain information regarding specific diving certifications or permits required for the Achaios wreck, nor does it mention any requirements related to the British Sovereign Base Area. Divers should always verify local regulations before planning their dive.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures at the Achaios dive site?
Details regarding typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures for the Achaios dive site are not included in the provided context. Divers are advised to check current conditions with local dive operators before their dive.