HMS Kipling - Crete

The HMS Kipling wreck is one of our absolute favourite dives in Crete. This isn't just a pile of metal; it’s a proper ship with a story, sunk in 1942 after a torpedo hit during the Battle of Crete. We especially love the way she sits, upright on the seabed, giving you a real sense of her original form. Dropping down, the sheer size is the first thing that hits you. Her bow points east, and you can trace her length along the deck, where the gun turrets still stand defiant. We always find ourselves drawn to the bridge area; it's quite broken up but still offers intriguing swim-throughs into what would have been the command centre. Look for the propellors, they’re usually a good spot to find big groupers eyeing you from the shadows. The Mediterranean light here, even at depth, filters down beautifully, making the sponges and colourful hydroids that have colonised the metal pop. You’ll definitely see schools of damselfish flitting about and moray eels peeking from crevices. We’d suggest going early in the morning to beat any crowds and to catch the best light. This wreck is perfect for experienced divers looking for a substantial, historical dive with plenty to explore.

Location
Crete, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
32.390000, 26.190000
Type
wreck

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 HMS Kipling

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 HMS Kipling

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