PATRIS - Alonissos Marine Park

The Patris wreck is a proper old-timer, sunk way back in 1868. We love a wreck with a story, and this steamship, built in London, hit a reef near Syra in poor visibility before breaking up the next day. Now, at 30 metres, it's not a single, intact vessel, but a sprawling field of iron ribs and plates spread across the seabed. Think archaeology site more than a ship you swim through. It’s the sheer age of the Patris that makes it special. The metalwork is completely encrusted, every surface a tapestry of sponges and hard corals. You’ll find moray eels tucked into the boiler sections and schools of barracuda hanging motionlessly above the largest pieces of hull. Our favourite part is the bow section, still somewhat recognisable, where the anchor chain spills out into the sand. This dive is best suited for experienced divers comfortable with deeper profiles and those who appreciate the quiet history of a site. Try to time your dive for mid-morning when the light penetrates just enough to highlight the structural remnants.

Location
Alonissos Marine Park, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.578500, 24.263033
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

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 PATRIS

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 PATRIS

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 is the maximum depth of the PATRIS shipwreck dive site?
The PATRIS shipwreck dive site has a maximum depth of 30 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the PATRIS wreck?
Divers exploring the PATRIS wreck can expect to see the distributed remains of a steam ship vessel. This historic wreck, measuring 66.2m x 8.4m, sank in 1868 and offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history within the Alonissos Marine Park.
How challenging is the PATRIS dive site, and is it suitable for advanced recreational divers?
The PATRIS dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While suitable for experienced recreational divers, it's recommended that divers have appropriate training and comfort with deeper wreck dives.
What are the best months or conditions for diving the PATRIS wreck?
Unfortunately, the provided data context does not specify the best months or typical conditions for diving the PATRIS wreck. For general information on optimal diving seasons in Greece, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the PATRIS shipwreck?
Given the PATRIS shipwreck's maximum depth of 30 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers should possess certifications appropriate for deep wreck diving. This typically includes advanced open water certification or equivalent, ensuring proficiency for this type of dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the PATRIS dive site?
The provided data context does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the PATRIS dive site. Divers planning a trip to Alonissos should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date site conditions.