DIVING - SCUBA TOURS
The crystal waters of the Mediterranean Sea rather warm temperature of the water (15 - 27 centigrade), as well as the magnificent submarine world, make diving very tempting. Diving centers, in cooperation with us, may provide you with all the necessary equipment, including boat and car.

Diving Conditions:

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, warm water temperatures (18 to 28 C or 64 to 82 F), great visibility (50-130 ft), and interesting marine life, Cyprus attracts diving enthusiasts from all over the world.
With a variety of dive sites to choose from and calm, turquoise waters, Cyprus offers some of the best diving in the Mediterranean.

Although during the summer temperatures can easily reach 30-40 C (86 C 104 F) some thermal protection is needed for diving. Most people wear sorties or 3mm suits but one can snorkel comfortably without any thermal protection. The water temperature varies from 16 C in the winter to 28 C in the summer (60 to 82 F). The water is generally warmer on the eastern part of the island, near Protaras.

There are no dangerous underwater currents or strong surf in the popular diving areas but divers should always check with the local shops for conditions.

The water around Cyprus is characterized by low (which translates to visibility's of more than 100 ft) and high salinity about (39%). The relatively around Cyprus also attract large pelagic species that migrate through the Suez Canal. However, if you are looking for Great Whites you will be disappointed. There are no recorded incidents of shark attacks in Cyprus.


Marine Life:

Although at first sight the underwater of Cyprus might seem rather poor compared to the tropics on closer inspection it is full of surprises. Many species hide themselves in the sand and the reefs or dwell below the thermo clines, which in the summer are usually around 18 to 30, meters (60 to 98 feet).

Since the opening of the Suez Canal the eastern Mediterranean has been colonized by several species from the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

At shallow depths you will see Posidonia meadows, where small wrasses, groupers, and other fish can be found. In the shallow rocky reefs you will see a variety of colourful sea urchins and fan worms, as well as starfish, rays, and parrot fish. If you look close enough you will discover moray eels and octopus hiding in crevices.

The rocky reefs are usually covered with large coloured sponges. If you dive near Akamas and Lara you may be lucky enough to see the green turtles, a protected species in Cyprus. Very often, you may see pieces of pottery and other ancient artefacts on the sea floor, but please be aware that the removal of antiquities and sponges from the sea floor is strictly forbidden.


Dive Sites:

Dive Sites:

The most popular are in the Ayia Napa-Protaras area and Paphos. Other interesting sites are located near Larnaca, and Limassol. The most pristine diving in Cyprus can be found around the rugged Akamas peninsula, on the north-western tip of the island.

Generally, the dive sites are located only a few minutes by boat from the docks. There are also plenty of shore dives around the island. You can find interesting sites with caves, tunnels, wrecks, and walls to suit every taste and expertise level.


Dive Shops:

There are several professional, including NAUI, BSAC, and PADI 5-star facilities, around the island. The price for a single dive ranges from 15 to 25 CY pounds (approximately $US 30 to 50), including equipment rental. Most shops offer introductory and advanced diving courses (including IDC).


Spear fishing:

Spear fishing requires a license from the District Fisheries Department located in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. Spear fishing is prohibited within swimming areas, which are demarcated with red buoys.


Emergencies:

There are two Decompression Chambers in Cyprus: One at the Larnaca Makarion General Hospital (new Hospital) and one at the British base at Akrotiri.