AGIOS NICOLAOS - Alonissos Marine Park

The Agios Nicolaos wreck is a proper piece of history, just waiting to be explored. We've always been drawn to wrecks that tell a story, and this 70-meter tanker, sunk in a fiery explosion back in '89, definitely has one. Descending onto the main deck, you can almost feel the heat of that day. The sheer scale of the ship is impressive, with a collapsed superstructure that's a labyrinth of twisted metal and shadows. We love exploring the hold areas, where schools of amberjacks hang in the gloom, and curious dusky groupers eye you from dark corners. Look closely at the deck plating; it's practically coated in colourful sponges and small anemones, a real testament to how quickly the Mediterranean reclaims things. For experienced divers, we'd suggest taking the time to penetrate some of the larger, safer sections of the wreck. Just be mindful of the silt and keep your buoyancy dialled in. It’s a site that rewards careful exploration, a captivating look into maritime history, now a thriving artificial reef.

Location
Alonissos Marine Park, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
38.015667, 23.549334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
25m

Wreck History - AGIOS NICOLAOS

Year Sunk
1989
Vessel Type
tanker
Cause
fire

The Agios Nicolaos had a relatively short but dramatic life. Built in Germany in 1968, the tanker served the shipping lanes for just over two decades before its fiery demise in the summer of 1989. On July 9th, while carrying a full, volatile cargo, disaster struck. A catastrophic explosion ripped through the vessel, which was immediately engulfed in flames. The inferno was unstoppable, and the ship was lost, sinking to the seabed where it remains today.

Lying at a depth of 25 metres within the Alonissos Marine Park, the wreck of the Agios Nicolaos is a compelling site for certified advanced divers. The explosion tore the ship apart, and its twisted, scarred metalwork tells the story of its violent end. Exploring the wreckage, divers can witness the immense power of the blast, now softened by two decades of marine growth. As part of a protected marine area, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, attracting schools of fish and other sea creatures, creating a scene of serene beauty from a moment of chaos.

Marine Protected Area: NISIDES SARONIKOU KOLPOU KAI THALASSIA PERIOCHI

Best Time to Dive in Alonissos Marine Park

The warmest water temperatures in Alonissos Marine Park occur in August, averaging 27.2°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 13.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 14.5°C
  • February: 13.9°C
  • March: 14.2°C
  • April: 15.4°C
  • May: 18.7°C
  • June: 23.5°C
  • July: 26.5°C
  • August: 27.2°C
  • September: 25.3°C
  • October: 22.8°C
  • November: 19.9°C
  • December: 16.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Alonissos Marine Park

Nearest Dive Centres to AGIOS NICOLAOS

Marine Life in Alonissos Marine Park

Home to 16 recorded species including 3 whales & dolphins, 3 reef fish, 2 other, 2 hard corals, 2 crabs & lobsters, 1 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for AGIOS NICOLAOS

Based on average water temperature of 19.9°C, currents 3 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 20°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 dive sites around Agios Nikolaos?
The dive site Agios Nikolaos itself features a depth of 25 meters, making it an intermediate dive. Information regarding typical diving depths at other sites around Agios Nikolaos is not provided in this context. We recommend checking specific dive site descriptions for other locations within Alonissos for their individual depth profiles.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see in Agios Nikolaos?
Divers exploring Agios Nikolaos will encounter the impressive remains of a tanker vessel, measuring 70.1m x 11m. This wreck, which sank on July 9, 1989, after an explosion, is the primary underwater feature. While specific marine life details are not provided in this context, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs over time.
How challenging are the dive sites in Agios Nikolaos, and are they suitable for beginners?
The Agios Nikolaos dive site is classified as "intermediate" in difficulty. This means it is generally not suitable for absolute beginners or uncertified divers, who would benefit from easier sites. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for this type of dive.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Agios Nikolaos, considering water temperature and conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive in Agios Nikolaos, including specific water temperatures and conditions, is not provided in this context. For general guidance on diving seasons in Greece, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive in Agios Nikolaos, and are there options for uncertified divers?
Given that the Agios Nikolaos dive site is rated as "intermediate" difficulty, specific scuba diving certifications are required. This site is not suitable for uncertified divers, who should pursue entry-level training before attempting such dives. Divers should ensure they meet the necessary experience and certification levels for intermediate wreck diving.
What are the typical underwater currents and visibility like when diving in Agios Nikolaos?
Details regarding typical underwater currents and visibility conditions for the Agios Nikolaos dive site are not provided in the current data. Divers should always consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive. Understanding local conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.