IONION (PROBABLY) - Crete

The Ionion (Probably) is one of our favourite easy wreck dives in Crete, and a site that makes for a surprisingly good second dive. Lying in just 5m of water, this Roll-on/Roll-off ferry sank back in '92, and the decades have been kind to it. We love the way the shallow depth lets sunlight flood the wreck, illuminating the big cargo holds and open vehicle decks. You can spend a whole bottom time just gliding over the skeletal superstructure, watching schools of damselfish flit through the old passenger areas. It’s a great spot for newer divers to experience a proper wreck without any depth anxieties, and for photographers, the ambient light is fantastic, especially mid-morning. Look closely at the hull plates for nudibranchs, and keep an eye out for octopus tucked into crevices. The wreck is pretty broken up in places, but the sheer scale of it still impresses. We'd suggest going on a day with minimal surface chop to really appreciate the visibility.

Location
Crete, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.631382, 23.589466
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: CHERSONISOS GRAMVOUSAS KAI NISIDES IMERI KAI AGRIA GRAMVOUSA, PONTIKONISI KAI THALASSIA ZONI

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 IONION (PROBABLY)

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 IONION (PROBABLY)

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 typical maximum depth for diving at IONION, and are there options for deeper dives?
The typical maximum depth for diving at the IONION wreck site is 5 meters. Based on the provided data, there are no specific options mentioned for deeper dives at this particular site.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at IONION?
Divers at the IONION site can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a roll on-roll off vessel, measuring 86.3m x 14.3m. This wreck, sunk in 1992, presents an intriguing structure for exploration, with portions of its hull and superstructure visible. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting various aquatic species.
What is the difficulty level for diving at IONION, and is it suitable for beginners or only experienced divers?
The difficulty level for diving at the IONION wreck is classified as intermediate. This suggests the site is best suited for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. Divers should possess the necessary skills and comfort level for intermediate conditions to safely enjoy this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at IONION for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at IONION for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in Greece, please refer to our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at IONION, especially for specific sites or depths?
The provided data does not explicitly state specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the IONION wreck. However, given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 5 meters, a standard Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient for such a site. Always check with local dive operators for any specific requirements or recommendations.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at IONION, and how do they vary?
The provided data does not include information regarding the typical currents or visibility conditions at the IONION dive site, nor how they might vary. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions.