Elpida Wreck in Cyprus by David Stangroom | Latchi Dive centre

Elpida Wreck in Cyprus

The Elpida Wreck in Cyprus is a 63m long commercial vessel that was deliberately sunk in Larnaca bay in December 2019 to form an artificial reef.

The Elpida, which means ‘Hope’ in Greek’ was cleaned extensively and prepared by the Fisheries Department. The stipulated intention to enrich marine biodiversity and secure Larnaca’s status as one of the top diving destinations worldwide. Co-financed by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, we are confident that the Elpida wreck will become a firm favourite among our divers.

 

Elpida Wreck an ariticial reef in Larnaka, Cyprus

The Elpida wreck is perfectly upright at a maximum depth of 30 metres although the top of the mast is at 10 metres depth.


You can swim along the main deck passed hatches at around 18-22 metres. Take a look inside some of the spaces that are welded shut for safety purposes. As with most of the waters around Cyprus, the visibility is crystal clear, so this makes it a good site for everyone from snorkelers to divers.

Coming back from the bow, you drop down to have a look at the propeller.

At the main bridge and galley areas, you can see shower cubicles, washbasins, toilets and sinks. Enjoy a swim through the wheelhouse for great photos at the helm. With lots of small wrasse and lionfish, it will not be long before the Elpida wreck grows full of life with hunting Amber Jacks, Barracuda and more.

Elpida Wreck an ariticial reef in Larnaka, Cyprus

A fantastic dive opportunity and combining it with a second dive on the Zenobia are great ways to experience two wreck dives in one adventure.

Whether purposefully sunk as an artificial reef for scuba divers, or lost as the result of an accident, wrecks are fascinating windows to the past.

Ships, aeroplanes and even cars are fascinating to explore and usually teem with aquatic life. Each wreck dive offers a chance for discovery, potentially unlocking a mystery or spying something others have missed.

The PADI Wreck Diver Specialty course is popular because it offers rewarding adventures while observing responsible wreck diving practices.


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Why not complete your PADI Advanced Open Water or any of our PADI Speciality courses including Wreck Dives?

Come with us to an underwater world of discovery?

The Akamas Peninsula has some of the most fantastic dive sites in Cyprus. In fact, people travel here from all around Cyprus and Europe to enjoy diving in the pristine waters that surround this nature reserve. Whether you are diving for the first time, or are an experienced diver. You’ll marvel at the clear water at all these fabulous dive sites! [read more]

PADI IDC STAFF INSTRUCTOR

David Stangroom

I used to work on the cruise ships and was asked if I wanted to complete my Open Water diving course in St. Croix. From my first dive with Eagle rays and Nursing sharks, it was just……wow. So 4 years ago I decided I wanted to become an instructor and have never looked back! I’m now a PADI IDC Staff Instructor and a sailing instructor.

a blog post by David Stangroom

By Dive Centre Diving PADI