Diving the Cynthiana Wreck

Site Overview

Cynthiana Wreck is a wreck, artificial-reef dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the open Mediterranean waters off Paphos. The Cynthiana is a 60 m bulk carrier scuttled in 2010 as an artificial reef, now lying in 18-30 m with a swimmable bridge and large resident groupers. The site reaches a maximum depth of 30 m with an average around 24 m, and the typical profile suits intermediate divers holding at least an Advanced Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the Cypriot coast: visibility generally runs from 18 to 35 metres, the current is mild, and the water temperature ranges between 16 and 28 degrees Celsius with low surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Dusky Grouper, European Barracuda, Mediterranean Moray, Lionfish (invasive), with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is a deeper Paphos wreck where big groupers and barracuda gather around the structure. Because of its intermediate rating and the need for an Advanced Open Water certification, Cynthiana Wreck is best approached with the right thermal protection and, where relevant, appropriate specialist training. It is a representative example of why Cypriot diving, with its wrecks, reefs, caves and gorgonian walls, attracts divers who want Mediterranean life and history in equal measure, and it pairs easily with the other sites of the undefined region for a varied holiday.