APOLLONIA VI - Alonissos Marine Park

The Apollonia VI wreck is a proper time capsule, a 65-meter motor vessel that ran aground near Piperi back in 1980. We’ve always had a soft spot for wrecks that tell a story, and this one, sitting upright at 20 meters, practically whispers its history. You can still see the cargo holds, the engine room, and parts of the superstructure, all beautifully draped in sponges and soft corals. Swimming through the interior feels like exploring a forgotten museum. Sunlight filters through gaps in the hull, illuminating schools of chromis darting in and out, and you’ll often spot groupers lurking in the shadows. We particularly love the bow section, where barracuda tend to congregate. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for those who want to really absorb the atmosphere of a wreck without fighting strong currents. Visibility here is usually excellent, so you get clear views of the entire ship as you descend. Go early if you can, before the other boats arrive.

Location
Alonissos Marine Park, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.758835, 24.129055
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Wreck History - APOLLONIA VI

Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

Resting at a comfortable 20 metres within the protected waters of the Alonissos Marine Park, the Apollonia VI offers a fantastic dive for all levels. This 65-metre motor vessel met its end after running aground and being holed by the rocky coastline while on a passage from Piraeus. Today, its structure remains partially intact, with sections of the hull and superstructure clearly visible, creating a classic wreck profile against the seabed.

As you descend, you'll be greeted by the ship's silhouette emerging from the exceptional Greek visibility. The wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, its metal framework now home to a vibrant community of marine life typical of the Aegean Sea. Divers can explore the main body of the vessel, peering into cargo holds and circling the superstructure, which attracts schools of fish. Its accessible depth and location within a pristine marine sanctuary make the Apollonia VI a rewarding and picturesque dive.

Marine Protected Area: PARAKTIA KAI THALASSIA ZONI MAKRONISOU

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 APOLLONIA VI

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 APOLLONIA VI

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