Diving the Zenobia Wreck (MS Zenobia)

Site Overview

Zenobia Wreck (MS Zenobia) is a wreck, deep-dive dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the open Mediterranean waters off Larnaca. The MS Zenobia is a 172 m roll-on/roll-off ferry that sank in 1980 and now lies on her port side, her decks and vehicle holds still stacked with the lorries and cargo she carried. The site reaches a maximum depth of 42 m with an average around 30 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 25 to 40 metres, the current is moderate, and the water temperature ranges between 16 and 28 degrees Celsius with low surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Dusky Grouper, Greater Amberjack, European Barracuda, Mediterranean Nudibranch, with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is consistently ranked among the top ten wreck dives in the world and is the signature site of Cypriot diving. Because of its advanced rating and the need for an Advanced Open Water certification, Zenobia Wreck (MS Zenobia) 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.