Diving Dhekelia Reef

Site Overview

Dhekelia Reef is a reef, rocky-reef dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the sheltered nearshore waters off Dhekelia. Dhekelia Reef is a shallow, rocky reef on the Larnaca coast, gently shelving from the shoreline into a sandy bottom dotted with boulders. The site reaches a maximum depth of 14 m with an average around 9 m, and the typical profile suits beginner divers holding at least an Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the Cypriot coast: visibility generally runs from 15 to 30 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 Common Stingray, Mediterranean Moray, Mediterranean Parrotfish, Common Octopus, with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is a gentle, beginner-friendly site where stingrays and moray eels are regular finds among the rocks. Because of its beginner rating and the need for an Open Water certification, Dhekelia Reef 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.