Diving the Zenobia wreck in Larnaca: one of the world's top ten dive sites just minutes from the airport

The Zenobia, an underwater legend a stone's throw from the shore

The MS Zenobia was a 172-metre Swedish ro-ro ferry launched in 1979. During her maiden voyage from Sweden to Syria in June 1980, a malfunction in her ballast system caused her to capsize and sink less than two kilometres from Larnaca harbour. All crew and passengers were evacuated safely, but 135 articulated lorries remained chained inside her cargo decks. Today the Zenobia rests on her port side at a depth of 42 metres, while her starboard side sits at just 18 metres, offering dives suited to various experience levels.

What makes diving the Zenobia unique

The colossal size of the wreck and its excellent state of preservation make it an exceptional site. Divers can explore the vehicle decks where lorries are still visible, swim alongside the huge propellers at 28 and 38 metres, and venture into the ship's corridors accompanied by schools of sea bream, barracuda and grouper. Visibility in Larnaca's waters often reaches 30 metres, providing ideal conditions for underwater photography. The Zenobia was rated by The Times as one of the top ten wreck dives in the world, alongside legends such as the SS Thistlegorm in the Red Sea.

Diving for every level

Several PADI-certified dive centres operate from Larnaca harbour and run daily trips to the Zenobia. Beginners can take a supervised introductory dive around the outer hull at 18 metres, while experienced divers explore the interior with penetrations into the garages and engine room. A full-day outing typically includes the boat transfer, two dives and a barbecue lunch on board. The centres also offer specialist wreck-diving courses for those looking to develop their skills further.

Practical information for diving the Zenobia

The diving season runs from April to November, with water temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The boat ride from Larnaca harbour takes just twenty minutes. Expect to pay between 60 and 120 euros for a two-dive trip including equipment. Larnaca International Airport is only eight kilometres from the harbour, making it possible to dive the day after arrival. It is advisable to book with a PADI or SSI-accredited centre and to allow a 24-hour interval between the last dive and the return flight.