ADHAM II - Paphos & Coral Bay

The Adham II isn't about depth or dramatic drop-offs, it’s about accessible history and a surprisingly lively ecosystem at just six metres. We love this wreck for its simplicity and the sheer joy of a long, leisurely exploration. The motor vessel, which sank rather unceremoniously at anchor in 1981, now rests upright on the seabed, her mast still reaching towards the surface. You can spend a whole dive just circling the deck, peering into the open holds where damselfish dart amongst the shadows. Look closely, and you'll spot moray eels tucked into crevices and octopus camouflaged against the rust. The light here is often brilliant, casting patterns through the superstructure, and the lack of strong currents makes it a relaxed dive, perfect for photographers or those who just want to savour the moment. Our favourite part is lingering around the bow, watching the schooling bream shimmer around the anchor chain. It's a gentle introduction to wreck diving, forgiving and full of small wonders.

Location
Paphos & Coral Bay, Cyprus, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
34.666110, 33.040280
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Wreck History - ADHAM II

Year Sunk
1981
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
unknown

The sinking of the Adham II is a quiet mystery. On February 16, 1981, the 53-meter motor vessel simply sank while lying at anchor near Paphos, completely unattended. With no crew aboard to report a leak or other distress, the exact cause of her sudden demise remains undocumented, leaving behind a ship that slipped beneath the waves without fanfare. Lying in just 6 meters of calm, clear water, the wreck is an incredibly accessible and enjoyable site. It is perfect for novice divers getting their first taste of wreck exploration, as well as for snorkelers and even passengers on glass-bottom boats. The shallow depth ensures the site is bathed in bright Cypriot sunlight, illuminating the structure and the vibrant schools of fish that have made it their home. It serves as a perfect example of how quickly nature can transform a man-made object into a thriving artificial reef.

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 ADHAM II

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 ADHAM II

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