beginner
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    Diving Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia)

    18m Max
    15-30m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia) is a reef, rocky-reef dive site in undefined, Cyprus, set in the open Mediterranean waters off Kyrenia. Zephyros Reef is a sloping rocky reef off Kyrenia, abundant in macro life and a favourite training and photography site in North Cyprus. The site reaches a maximum depth of 18 m with an average around 12 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 Mediterranean Nudibranch, Mediterranean Moray, Lionfish (invasive), Two-banded Seabream, with the full species list detailed below for those planning a dive. It is a macro haven where nudibranchs, moray eels and lionfish are regular, careful finds. Because of its beginner rating and the need for an Open Water certification, Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia) 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 15 minutes from Kyrenia, and divers should check in with a local centre before entering the water. Zephyros Reef is a sloping rocky reef off Kyrenia, abundant in macro life and a favourite training and photography site in North Cyprus. Plan your profile around a maximum depth of 18 m and an average of 12 m, keeping a close eye on gas and, in the deeper or enclosed sections, on the low surge. Buoyancy control matters here: rock and sand bottoms and submerged structures are easily disturbed, and silt among the reef is a real consideration throughout the dive. The reef and rocky-reef topography offers slope, reef, and the marine life centres on Mediterranean Nudibranch, Mediterranean Moray, Lionfish (invasive), Two-banded Seabream alongside the other species listed for the site. Take a moment to review the site-specific hazards with your guide, because conditions at Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia) 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

    Mediterranean Nudibranch

    high

    Flabellina affinis

    Best: May, June, July

    Mediterranean Moray

    high

    Muraena helena

    Best: May, June, July

    Lionfish (invasive)

    medium

    Pterois miles

    Best: May, June, July

    Two-banded Seabream

    high

    Diplodus vulgaris

    Best: May, June, July

    Common Octopus

    medium

    Octopus vulgaris

    Best: May, June, July

    Small Red Scorpionfish

    medium

    Scorpaena notata

    Best: May, June, July

    Safety & Hazards

    • Silt among the reef
    • Mild current along the coast
    • Boat traffic above the site
    • Sharp rock and urchins
    • Summer crowds
    Nearest Chamber
    Kyrenia Dr. Akcin Ilgin State Hospital Hyperbaric Unit
    12km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia) suits beginner divers holding at least an 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 reef, macro, beginner, training 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.

    reef
    macro
    beginner
    training

    For Non-Divers

    Kyrenia harbour; Bellapais; St. Hilarion Castle

    Quick Stats

    Difficultybeginner
    CertificationOpen Water
    Currentmild
    Water Temp16-28°C
    Best TimeMay - October

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Kyrenia Diving Centre
    • Dive Cyprus North
    • Girne Aquanaut
    • North Cyprus Diving
    Pricing Guide
    $50 - $100
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    60mm
    100mm

    Best for: macro

    Nearby Stay

    The Hideaway Club

    Kyrenia8km away

    Check Availability

    Onar Village

    Kyrenia9km away

    Check Availability