PIPO - Crete

PIPO sits just off the coast of Crete, a carrier vessel that went down in 2006. It wasn't a dramatic sinking, more of a grounding after engine and prop trouble, but it’s become a decent dive since then. We found it’s shallow enough for a relaxed dive, with parts of the hull and superstructure still quite intact. You can swim around the exterior, spotting scorpionfish tucked into crevices and small schools of damselfish flitting about. It’s a good spot for newer wreck divers looking to get a feel for something a bit different, without the challenges of deeper or more complex sites.

Location
Crete, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
34.850000, 24.041666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: NISOI GAVDOS KAI GAVDOPOULA

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 PIPO

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 PIPO

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 MV Pippo dive site in Malta?
The dive site PIPO is located in Crete, Greece, not Malta. According to the available data, the wreck of the PIPO is at a depth of 0m, indicating it is likely a very shallow wreck, possibly even partially exposed at the surface.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the MV Pippo?
Divers exploring the PIPO wreck can expect to see the remains of a carrier vessel, specifically portions of its hull or superstructure. The vessel grounded due to engine and prop problems while en route for repairs. Details regarding specific marine life at this site are not available in the current data.
What is the recommended diver experience level and difficulty for the MV Pippo wreck dive?
The PIPO wreck dive is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that divers should possess a good understanding of buoyancy control and wreck diving procedures, making it suitable for those with some prior diving experience beyond entry-level certifications.
When is the best time of year to dive the MV Pippo for optimal visibility and sea conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and sea conditions at the PIPO dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on diving in Crete, Greece, you might consult our When to Dive section for regional insights.
What diving certifications are required or beneficial for diving the MV Pippo?
Given the PIPO wreck dive's intermediate difficulty, divers would typically benefit from an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While specific certifications aren't listed, a Wreck Diver specialty course could be highly beneficial for safely exploring wreck features.
What are the typical current and open-sea conditions at the MV Pippo dive site?
The provided data does not contain specific information regarding the typical current or open-sea conditions at the PIPO dive site in Crete, Greece. Divers should always consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.