MS Zenobia
Dive Overview
Type: Wreck
Max Depth: 42 meters
Certification Level: Advanced Scuba Diver (external dives), Technical Wreck Penetration (penetration dives)
Entry Type: Boat
History of MS Zenobia
The MS Zenobia is a world-famous wreck dive site located just off the coast of Larnaca, Cyprus. Built in Sweden as a RO-RO ferry, she was launched in 1979 and tragically sank during her maiden voyage on June 7th, 1980.
Carrying a cargo of 104 tractor-trailers, the vessel departed Malmö, Sweden, bound for Tartous, Syria. Upon reaching Larnaca on June 2nd, a ballast tank malfunction caused excess water to flood the ship. To avoid obstructing the harbor, Zenobia was towed approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers offshore and anchored. With the ship listing at around 45°, the captain ordered abandonment on June 5th. In the early hours of June 7th, at approximately 2:30 AM, the Zenobia capsized and sank to a depth of 42 meters (138 feet) in Larnaca Bay, taking with her an estimated £200 million worth of cargo. Thankfully, there were no casualties.
Wreck Diving Overview
The MS Zenobia is consistently ranked among the top 10 recreational wreck dives in the world and stands as the largest wreck in the Mediterranean Sea, measuring 172 meters in length and 24 meters in width.
The wreck rests on its port side with the shallowest deck at around 18 meters, making it accessible for Advanced Scuba Diver certification level for external dives. At roughly 30 meters, divers can explore many of the tractor-trailers and cars still aboard.
This massive wreck offers a complex and thrilling dive experience with multiple entry and exit points, including the engine room, cabins, bar, and garages—ideal for Technical Wreck Penetration dives.
Marine Life
Common Sightings:
Large groupers, turtles, big schools of sea breams, barracudas, amberjacks, lionfish, and moray eels.
Into the Blue, Beyond the Limits.
Take the plunge — adventure waits below the surface! Contact us and start your dive today