CARINTHIA V
Protected Area
THALASSIA ZONI APO ARGOSTOLI EOS ORMO MOUNTA
Why dive here
CARINTHIA V is a wreck dive where divers can encounter dolphins, ocean sunfish (mola mola), sea turtles and sperm whales.
The Carinthia V is pure wreck diving bliss for those of us who love a proper deep dive. Dropping down to 45 metres, this isn't one for the casual vacation diver, but if you’re comfortable with depth and a bit of blue water, it’s a stunner. We always find the sheer scale of the 68-metre yacht impressive as it materialises from the blue. Built in 1971 and sunk just months later, it’s surprisingly intact, though time and the sea are certainly working their magic. What makes it special for us is the atmosphere; the visibility here is often fantastic, giving you a clear view of the entire structure. Shoals of glinting silversides often ghost through the doorways, while moray eels peek from portholes. We’d suggest a sidemount setup if you're keen on exploring the swim-throughs, though penetration should only be attempted by experienced wreck divers. Our favourite part is lingering over the bow, imagining the opulence of its brief life. The lack of strong currents usually makes for a relaxed deep stop. Keep an eye on your bottom time, it’s easy to lose track down there.
Typical CARINTHIA V Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 45m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
CARINTHIA V Wreck History
Year Sunk
1971
Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
storm
The Carinthia V was a vessel of pure luxury, a brand-new superyacht owned by the West German industrialist Helmut Horten. In November 1971, during its very first year of service, the yacht was on a passage from Crete to Venice. It encountered a fierce storm in the Ionian Sea and, after striking a reef in the heavy seas, foundered and sank off the coast of Cephalonia. The loss of such a new and magnificent vessel was a dramatic event in the maritime world.
Today, the Carinthia V lies at 45 meters, making it a challenging and rewarding dive reserved for technical or deep-certified divers. Descending through the clear blue Greek waters to see the elegant lines of a modern superyacht emerge from the depths is an unforgettable experience. The wreck is a time capsule of 1970s luxury, and its depth has helped preserve it from the ravages of time and weather, offering a pristine and hauntingly beautiful dive into the recent past.
Nearest Dive Centres to CARINTHIA V
Dive shops near CARINTHIA V
ZANTE BLUE REEF
Islanders Zante Diving Center
Karina Wild Fun Dive Center
Turtle Beach Diving Center
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