🌊Diving in North Cyprus: The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Secret

Diving in North Cyprus: The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Secret

When you think of world-class diving, you might picture the Red Sea or the Maldives. But there’s a hidden gem in the Eastern Mediterranean that offers crystal-clear waters, ancient wrecks, and untouched reefs—North Cyprus.

Still flying under the radar of most divers, North Cyprus is a paradise for underwater adventurers looking for warm seas, abundant marine life, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced diver, this unique region has something for everyone.

Why Dive in North Cyprus?

With visibility often reaching 30 meters, warm water temperatures from April to November, and minimal commercial diving traffic, North Cyprus offers some of the cleanest and most tranquil underwater conditions in the Med.

Here are a few reasons why divers keep coming back:

• Uncrowded dive sites

• Rich underwater topography: caves, reefs, drop-offs

• Ancient history beneath the surface

• Affordable prices and friendly instructors

What Will You See Underwater?

North Cyprus may not have coral reefs like the tropics, but it more than makes up for it with unique Mediterranean marine life and historical dive sites.

Expect to see:

• Moray eels, octopuses, groupers, and barracudas

• Sea turtles (Green and Loggerhead), especially between July and September

• Lionfish, stingrays, and colorful nudibranchs

• Ancient amphorae and the occasional WWII aircraft wreck

Top Dive Sites in North Cyprus

🐠 Zephyros Reef (Kyrenia)

A favorite for its dramatic drop-offs and crystal-clear water. Ideal for both experienced divers and those doing advanced courses.

🌊 The Paradise Reef

Home to groupers, rays, and vibrant sponge-covered rocks. A great beginner-to-intermediate site near Kyrenia.

🌌 Zeyko’s Cave (Alagadi)

Swim through natural underwater caves and tunnels—a dream for photographers and adventurous divers.

✈️ The WWII Airplane Wreck

A fascinating wreck sitting at about 16 meters, perfect for Open Water divers interested in history.

⚱️ Amphorae Reef

An underwater museum of ancient pottery dating back to Roman times. A surreal dive experience you won’t forget.

Learn or Advance Your Diving

North Cyprus is a perfect spot to begin your scuba journey or advance your skills. Dive centers offer:

• Discover Scuba Diving (no experience required)

• PADI Open Water & Advanced Certifications

• Wreck, Night, and Deep Diving specialties

• Kids’ diving programs and family snorkel safaris

Here are some highly rated local dive centers:

🌟 Recommended Dive Centers:

• 🐠 Dive Point Cyprus – Kyrenia Professional, PADI-certified team with fun dives and courses for all levels.

• 🐟 Amphora Diving – Kyrenia Friendly instructors and a great selection of nearby dive sites.

• 🌊 Mephisto Diving – Lapta German-run dive school offering PADI and CMAS certifications.

• 🧜 Deep Blue Dive Centre – Famagusta Located on the east coast near Salamis, great for exploring the historic coastline.

• 🐬 North Cyprus Diving Center – Karpaz Peninsula Perfect for exploring the untouched northeast coast and Golden Beach area.

When’s the Best Time to Dive?

The diving season stretches from April to November, with the summer months (July–September) offering the warmest water and the highest turtle activity. That said, off-season diving is also possible, especially for experienced divers looking for quiet sites.

Insider Tips Before You Go

• Currency: Turkish Lira is the local currency, but Euros and GBP are widely accepted.

• Entry: Most travelers don’t need a visa for short stays.

• Insurance: Be sure your travel insurance covers scuba diving.

• Language: English is widely spoken at dive centers.

• Health & Safety: Dive conservatively—there is currently no decompression chamber in North Cyprus.

Make it a Dive & Discover Trip

After your dives, North Cyprus offers stunning landscapes and historical landmarks to explore:

• Wander the harbor of Kyrenia (Girne)

• Visit the majestic Bellapais Abbey

• Discover the ruins of Salamis near Famagusta

• Relax on the remote Golden Beach of the Karpaz Peninsula

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a diving experience that’s authentic, peaceful, and full of surprises, North Cyprus should be high on your list. From ancient amphorae to unexpected encounters with sea turtles, every dive here tells a story—above and below the surface.

Whether you’re getting certified or simply enjoying a fun dive, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the clear waters, friendly faces, and rich underwater heritage of this little-known Mediterranean treasure.

Ready to take the plunge in North Cyprus?Contact one of the local dive centers linked above and start your adventure today!