Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
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Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
Few places in the world offer the kind of underwater experience that the Zenobia Wreck in Cyprus does. While it’s well-known as one of the top wreck diving sites globally for scuba divers, the wreck presents unique opportunities for freedivers as well. Freediving the Zenobia means plunging into an underwater world filled with history, mystery, and vibrant marine life, making it a must-visit for freediving enthusiasts.
The story behind the Zenobia is as captivating as the wreck itself. The MS Zenobia was a Swedish ferry that set sail in 1980, on its maiden voyage from Malmö, Sweden, to Syria. However, upon reaching Cyprus, a computer malfunction in the ballast system caused the ship to list to one side. Despite attempts to fix the problem, the ferry continued to tilt and eventually capsized just outside Larnaca Harbor, sinking to the seabed at a depth of 42 meters (138 feet).
The Zenobia carried 104 fully loaded trucks, which now lie scattered on and around the wreck. These trucks, still perfectly preserved, offer a dramatic and surreal sight as they rest on the sea floor, adding to the eerie allure of the wreck.
The Zenobia isn’t just for technical or scuba divers—freedivers can also revel in its wonders. Here’s why this wreck is particularly well-suited for freediving:
1. Accessible Depth Range: The shallowest part of the wreck is at 16 meters (52 feet), making it easily reachable for beginner freedivers. More advanced freedivers can explore the deeper sections, which reach 42 meters (138 feet). This depth range provides flexibility for freedivers of varying skill levels to enjoy the site.
2. Natural Light: The relatively shallow location of the wreck means that there is ample natural light during most of the day. This makes the dive not only more visually spectacular but also safer, as it eliminates the need for artificial lighting, which is crucial for freedivers.
3. Marine Life: The wreck has become a thriving artificial reef over the last four decades, attracting a rich variety of marine life. Freedivers can enjoy encounters with groupers, moray eels, and even turtles. The abundance of fish provides an immersive, almost meditative experience as freedivers glide silently through the wreck and its surroundings.
4. Wreck Penetration (for the Advanced Freediver): While wreck penetration can be risky and is generally recommended for advanced divers with proper training, some of the larger open spaces of the Zenobia—like the vehicle deck—are accessible for experienced freedivers. These areas offer a unique, thrilling dimension to the dive, as you can explore the interior of the sunken ferry and its cargo of trucks. However, it is essential to proceed with caution and ensure you have the right training and safety protocols in place before attempting wreck penetration.
Freediving a wreck is a different experience compared to freediving in open water or along a reef. It requires a bit more preparation and mindfulness due to the environment and potential challenges. Here are some tips to make the most of your dive at the Zenobia:
1. Understand the Depth and Dive Plan: Since the Zenobia has multiple levels and areas of interest, it’s crucial to have a clear dive plan. Identify the parts of the wreck you want to explore, keeping in mind your depth limits. Beginners may want to focus on the upper part of the wreck, which rests at 16-18 meters, while more advanced freedivers can venture deeper, targeting the trucks scattered around the seabed or the lower parts of the ship. Plan your breath-hold times accordingly, and remember to allow extra time for enjoying the surroundings, rather than focusing solely on reaching maximum depth.
2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: One of the unique challenges of wreck freediving is dealing with the structure itself. The Zenobia’s large size and the presence of debris can create obstacles that require careful navigation. Always be mindful of potential entanglement risks, especially if you’re carrying a buoy or line for safety. Freedivers should also avoid venturing too deep into enclosed spaces unless they are highly experienced and comfortable with their diving abilities. It’s also essential to stay aware of other divers in the area, as the Zenobia is a popular site for scuba divers. Respect their space and dive carefully to avoid collisions or interference with their equipment.
3. Streamline Your Freediving Gear: When freediving a wreck, minimizing drag is essential. Streamlined equipment allows for more graceful movement around the wreck, especially in tighter spaces. Short carbon fins are ideal for maneuvering efficiently through the water. Wearing a 5mm or 3mm wetsuit may be necessary, depending on the water temperature. While Cyprus enjoys warm waters, they can get cooler at depth, especially in the spring and autumn months, so adjust your suit thickness based on the season of your visit.
4. Prioritize Safety: As with all freediving, safety is paramount. Always dive with a buddy, and set clear communication signals before entering the water. Freediving around a wreck can create unique hazards, such as sharp edges or enclosed spaces, so having a safety plan in place is essential. A surface support system, like a buoy and line, provides an additional safety layer, offering a clear point of reference during your ascent and allowing your buddy to monitor your progress closely.
Freediving the Zenobia wreck is a unique experience that blends history, adventure, and nature. For those looking to challenge themselves with a wreck dive, the Zenobia offers an ideal setting, with depths that cater to different skill levels and a vast structure to explore. The mix of open spaces, intriguing wreckage, and thriving marine life makes it a dream destination for freedivers seeking something beyond a typical reef dive.
The Zenobia provides an unforgettable freediving experience where you can lose yourself in the quiet serenity of the deep, while also feeling a connection to the past. Whether you’re exploring the trucks lying on the seabed or gliding alongside the schools of fish that now call the wreck home, the Zenobia promises a dive that will leave a lasting impression.