Paphos
Achilleas Wreck
-
MAX DEPTH
12M -
DIVE TYPE
Wreck -
CERTIFICATION
Scuba Diver + -
ACCESS
Boat
Achilleas is situation just 10 minutes away from Paphos Harbour just past the lighthouse. The Greek vessel which exploded and sank in 1975 and now sits on a sandy bottom at 12m. This wreck is perfect for those finishing their Scuba Diver or Open Water course. It provides plenty to see whilst the sand and rock bottom cant be stirred up decreasing the visibility.
For this dive a minimum certification level of Scuba Diver is required.
If your last dive was more than 1 year ago then you will be required to complete a refresher before joining any of our scheduled dives.
The wreck broke up into 3 main sections when it exploded. Of the 3 sections, the most popular is the bronze propeller on the upturned stern and the winch. Although the stern section is upturned the side is broken open exposing the engine. The engine is still fully intact and provides shelter for a range of marine life including octopus. Within the winch section there is often a moray eel hiding!
We will meet at our well-equipped diving centre in Paphos Harbour. Our friendly and helpful PADI professionals will help you with equipment and begin with an interesting and informative dive briefing. Unless you have your own diving gear, all equipment is supplied by us. We spend a few minutes checking your sizes and will fit you with the suitable gear. All of our diving equipment is well maintained and serviced regularly to ensure your safety and comfort.
Once everyone is ready we will take a short walk to the Paphos harbour where we will board Cydive II. The journey from the harbour to Achilleas takes around 10 minutes by boat.
After we anchor at the dive site we will desend down onto the reef at around 9m just behind the propeller. Swim around the stern of the wreck making sure to pay attention to the propeller which is now fused in place and the engine which has fallen out of the side of the wreck.
From the stern take a 45degree angle towards the bow of the wreck which is now laid upside down, with plenty of holes and dark places this is the perfect place for marine life to hide.
Finally, make your way towards the winch, this would have been used to lift the anchor when the ship was still above the water!
The rest of the wreck is scattered around the sea bed. You will also see port holes, ladders, and piping from the wreck laying on the sea bed as you swim around.
At this dive site you are likely to find Sea Bream, Damselfish and colourful Wrasse.
Inside the sections of the wreck you will see Cardinal fish and Crown squirrelfish, they have big black eyes and live in the dark. the sandy bottom here is a great place to find flounders and sometimes cuttlefish.
For more information about the marine life we see in Cyprus, head over to our marine life page!
Complimentary fresh fruit and refreshments will be served on the boat before returning to the harbour. Back at the dive centre our PADI professionals will debrief you and help you to complete your logbooks.
