ARGO CARRIER - Alonissos Marine Park

The Argo Carrier is our top pick in Alonissos Marine Park, hands down. We love a good wreck, and this 141-meter beast, scuttled back in '91, delivers. Lying perfectly upright at 30 meters, she’s a proper ship, not just a pile of rubble. Drop down the line and you immediately get a sense of her scale; the bow looms large, then the entire ship stretches out into the blue. Visibility here is usually excellent, letting you take in the whole scene from above the deck. We always make a point of swimming through the bridge superstructure – the wheelhouse is still there, just waiting to be explored, and you can imagine the captain navigating these very waters. Fusiliers school in their hundreds around the mast, and we’ve spotted moray eels peeking from every nook and cranny. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs on the deck plating, too; the colours are incredible against the rusty steel. This site is best for experienced divers comfortable with depth and overhead environments, as there's plenty to penetrate if you're qualified and the conditions are right. For anyone who appreciates a substantial, intact wreck, the Argo Carrier is a real treat.

Location
Alonissos Marine Park, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.940666, 23.592667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Wreck History - ARGO CARRIER

Year Sunk
1991
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding
Tonnage
8,924 GRT

Built in 1969 by the renowned Austin & Pickersgill shipyard, this vessel lived a varied life under many flags and names, including 'Nicolaos D.L.', 'Kaptamichalis', and 'Lucky Carrier', before being christened 'Argo Carrier' in 1990. This history of changing ownership is typical for a workhorse cargo ship of its era, traversing the globe and carrying countless tons of cargo from port to port. Its final journey began in Piraeus, Greece, loaded with a cargo of iron bars destined for Algeria.

On April 18, 1991, the 'Argo Carrier' was caught in a severe storm while navigating the strait between Alonissos and Peristera. Battered by fierce winds and high seas, the ship ran aground on the submerged reef of Koutoulos, close to the islet of Peristera. The impact tore a hole in its hull, and the vessel quickly took on water. It sank within minutes, settling on the seabed where it remains to this day, its cargo still in its holds.

Resting in the protected waters of the Alonissos Marine Park, the 'Argo Carrier' is a spectacular and accessible wreck dive. The ship lies on its port side at a maximum depth of 30 meters, with its highest point reaching up to 18 meters. Its large size and excellent preservation make for a stunning exploration. The clear Aegean waters provide fantastic visibility, revealing a wreck that is now completely colonized by marine life, including groupers, moray eels, and vast schools of smaller fish that have made this fallen giant their home.

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 ARGO CARRIER

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 ARGO CARRIER

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 depths divers can expect when exploring the Argo Carrier dive site?
Divers exploring the Argo Carrier can expect to dive to a maximum depth of 30 meters. This makes it an exciting site for those comfortable with deeper recreational diving. The entire wreck is accessible within this depth range.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Argo Carrier?
The Argo Carrier is a substantial motor vessel wreck, built in 1969 and sunk in 1991, measuring 141.1m x 20.4m. Divers can explore its impressive structural features, which typically attract a variety of local marine life. It is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, offering a safe exploration experience.
How challenging is diving the Argo Carrier, and is it suitable for recreational divers?
Diving the Argo Carrier is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for recreational divers with appropriate training and experience. Its depth of 30 meters requires divers to be comfortable with deeper dives. This site offers a rewarding experience for those ready for a moderate challenge.
What is the best time of year or conditions to dive the Argo Carrier for optimal visibility and calmer seas?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or typical conditions for optimal visibility and calmer seas at the Argo Carrier. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in Greece, you might consult our When to Dive section. Always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning your trip.
What diving certifications are required to dive the Argo Carrier, especially for accessing deeper sections?
Given the Argo Carrier's depth of 30 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers would typically need an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures they have the necessary training and experience for deeper recreational dives. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort zone.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Argo Carrier dive site?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the Argo Carrier dive site. Divers should always check local conditions with a reputable dive operator in Alonissos before planning their dive. Local knowledge is key for a safe and enjoyable experience.