Diving Zafer Burnu (Cape Apostolos Andreas)
Site Overview
Zafer Burnu (Cape Apostolos Andreas) is a drift, wall dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the open Mediterranean waters off Dipkarpaz. Zafer Burnu, also known as Cape Apostolos Andreas, is a strong-current drift at the very tip of the Karpaz Peninsula, bordering open blue water rich in pelagics. The site reaches a maximum depth of 35 m with an average around 25 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 strong, and the water temperature ranges between 16 and 28 degrees Celsius with moderate surge exposure. The marine community is centred on European Barracuda, Greater Amberjack, Bluefin Tuna, Blue Shark, with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is an advanced, exhilarating drift where barracuda and amberjacks work the current and the occasional shark or dolphin appears. Because of its advanced rating and the need for an Advanced Open Water certification, Zafer Burnu (Cape Apostolos Andreas) 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.
Dive Briefing
"Entry is made by boat, with a transfer of about 35 minutes from Dipkarpaz, and divers should check in with a local centre before entering the water. Zafer Burnu, also known as Cape Apostolos Andreas, is a strong-current drift at the very tip of the Karpaz Peninsula, bordering open blue water rich in pelagics. Plan your profile around a maximum depth of 35 m and an average of 25 m, keeping a close eye on gas and, in the deeper or enclosed sections, on the moderate surge. Buoyancy control matters here: rock and limestone bottoms and submerged structures are easily disturbed, and strong current drift at the exposed tip is a real consideration throughout the dive. The drift and wall topography offers drift, drop-off, and the marine life centres on European Barracuda, Greater Amberjack, Bluefin Tuna, Blue Shark alongside the other species listed for the site. Take a moment to review the site-specific hazards with your guide, because conditions at Zafer Burnu (Cape Apostolos Andreas) can shift with wind and tide and change the feel of the dive. A safe ascent with a surface marker buoy and a clear exit plan completes the dive, with emergency cover routed through undefined."
Signature Marine Life
European Barracuda
Sphyraena sphyraena
Best: May, June, July
Greater Amberjack
Seriola dumerili
Best: May, June, July
Bluefin Tuna
Thunnus thynnus
Best: June, July, August
Blue Shark
Prionace glauca
Best: June, July, August
Common Dolphin
Delphinus delphis
Best: May, June, July
Red Gorgonian
Paramuricea clavata
Best: May, June, July
Safety & Hazards
- Strong current drift at the exposed tip
- Depth to 35 m with no-decompression limits
- Remote position with no shelter
- Cold thermocline on deep sections
- Limited exit points on the drift
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Zafer Burnu (Cape Apostolos Andreas) suits advanced divers holding at least an Advanced Open Water certification, and it is a strong choice for those who enjoy the clear, fish-rich water of the Cypriot Mediterranean. Photographers, training groups and divers chasing drift, wall, advanced, pelagic will all find something here, provided they respect the temperature, the marine park rules and the limits of each site. It is less suitable for absolute novices unless booked through a centre running a supervised course, and the deepest or most enclosed sections should only be attempted with the correct specialist training and a guide. Planning a dive here with a licensed Cypriot operator not only keeps you safe but also helps protect the fragile gorgonian forests, seagrass meadows and wrecks that make the site special for the next visitor.
For Non-Divers
Apostolos Andreas monastery; Karpaz tip; Golden Beach
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Famagusta Diving
- Karpaz Diving
- Dipkarpaz Aquanaut
- North Cyprus Diving
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle
Nearby Stay
Salamis Bay Conti Resort
Famagusta • 10km away
Porto Rotondo Hotel
Famagusta • 12km away