EXPRESS SAMINA - Crete

The Express Samina wreck off Paros is a haunting dive, a big one at 115m long, sitting at 35m. You really feel the history here. It went down in 2000 due to crew incompetence, a tragic story, and you sense that gravity as you descend. It’s a roll on-roll off ferry, so you can poke around the car decks, though we’d suggest careful penetration for experienced wreck divers only. The wreck itself is massive and broken, parts of it look like they just crumpled. Currents can be a factor, so pick your day carefully, ideally with a local guide who knows the site well. We love seeing the schooling jacks and groupers that have made it home; they weave through the collapsed metalwork. Our favourite part is the bow section, it’s really dramatic, offering some excellent photo opportunities against the blue. It's a dive that rewards multiple visits, giving you a chance to explore a bit more of its sad story each time.

Location
Crete, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.079067, 25.113867
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

Marine Protected Area: NISIDES PAROU KAI NOTIA ANTIPAROS KAI THALASSIA PERIOCHI

Best Time to Dive in Crete

The warmest water temperatures in Crete occur in August, averaging 25.1°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 16.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 17.3°C
  • February: 16.4°C
  • March: 16.4°C
  • April: 17.0°C
  • May: 19.2°C
  • June: 22.3°C
  • July: 24.1°C
  • August: 25.1°C
  • September: 24.6°C
  • October: 22.9°C
  • November: 20.9°C
  • December: 18.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Crete

Nearest Dive Centres to EXPRESS SAMINA

Marine Life in Crete

Home to 11 recorded species including 5 reef fish, 1 other, 1 sea urchins, 1 worms, 1 seagrass & algae, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for EXPRESS SAMINA

Based on average water temperature of 20.4°C, currents 5 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 EXPRESS SAMINA wreck dive?
The maximum depth for diving the EXPRESS SAMINA wreck is 35 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate deep dive training and experience with sites in Crete.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when diving the EXPRESS SAMINA?
The EXPRESS SAMINA is a significant wreck, measuring 115m x 18.1m, offering extensive features to explore. Divers can expect to see the remains of this roll on-roll off vessel, which suffered serious hull damage and water ingress before sinking in 2000. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks like the EXPRESS SAMINA typically attract a variety of local species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving the EXPRESS SAMINA wreck?
Diving the EXPRESS SAMINA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should have some experience and comfort with wreck diving or similar conditions to safely explore this site in Crete.
What is the best time of year to dive the EXPRESS SAMINA, considering water temperature and overall conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the EXPRESS SAMINA regarding water temperature or overall conditions. For general guidance on diving in Greece, particularly around Crete, you might consult our When to Dive section for seasonal insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications or prior experience required to dive the EXPRESS SAMINA?
Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 35 meters, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. As the EXPRESS SAMINA is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," specific wreck diving training and experience are highly recommended to safely explore this site.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the EXPRESS SAMINA dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current or visibility conditions at the EXPRESS SAMINA dive site. It's always advisable to check local dive reports and consult with dive operators in Crete for the most current conditions before planning your dive to the EXPRESS SAMINA.