Diving the Kantara Wall (Karpaz Peninsula)

Site Overview

Kantara Wall (Karpaz Peninsula) is a wall, drop-off dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the open Mediterranean waters off Dipkarpaz. The Kantara Wall is a steep, completely untouched drop-off on the remote Karpaz Peninsula, clad in gorgonians and alive with schooling tuna and pelagics. The site reaches a maximum depth of 40 m with an average around 28 m, and the typical profile suits advanced divers holding at least an Advanced Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the Cypriot coast: visibility generally runs from 20 to 40 metres, the current is moderate, and the water temperature ranges between 16 and 28 degrees Celsius with moderate surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Red Gorgonian, Bluefin Tuna, Common Dolphin, Greater Amberjack, with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is one of the wildest dives in Cyprus, with schooling tuna and the occasional dolphin in pristine blue water. Because of its advanced rating and the need for an Advanced Open Water certification, Kantara Wall (Karpaz Peninsula) 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.