A Swedish Challenger-class RO ferry that sank on a summer’s night 40 years ago off Cyprus, is now rated one of the world’s best shipwreck dives.
Thousands dive down each year to see the Zenobia – dubbed the ‘Titanic of the Mediterranean’ – which is slumped on its port side at a depth of 40 metres off the island.
Unlike many other wrecks, the Zenobia, named after a third-century queen of ancient Palmyra, is easily accessible, only a 10-minute boat ride from the coastal resort of Larnaca.
On a family trip to Cyprus during the October half term break, Peter Andre was eager to explore the site, and Zenobia Divers were on hand to help!
The SSI Certified Dive Resort offers a plethora of dive packages and products within Cyprus. Located in Larnaca on the seafront road (Piale Pasa) with direct access to Kastella beach, the dive resort is in between Larnaca airport and the tourist area on Finikoudes beach.
With extensive knowledge of local dive sites and a wealth of experience, the resort ensures a pleasurable, safe and comfortable diving experience for all divers, at all levels.
Peter and his eldest children Junior and Princess were welcomed to the dive resort’s tranquil beach oasis for a day of exploration and relaxation. And they couldn’t have been in better hands…Resort Director Christakis Jiovannis has over 15 years experience in diving and working on the sea. He is a qualified skipper, SSI Dive Control Specialist instructor, a Nitrox Gas Blender, a Mares Technician and fully trained in Scuba Diving International Visual Inspection Procedures.
Together with diving instructor Andreas Panagiotou and Olha Skybytska of A.A.K Larnaca Napa Sea Cruises, he made sure the Andres had an experience they’ll never forget!
The family set off to the Zenobia wreck onboard the Doremi vessel, fully equipped with SCUBA units. Peter was assisted by Christakis during his dive.
Like the Titanic which sank in the Atlantic in 1912, the Zenobia came to grief on its maiden journey on its way to the Syrian port of Tartus. On June 2, 1980, shortly after midnight, the captain of the listing vessel sent out an SOS. Trawlers went to the rescue from Cyprus but to no avail and the Zenobia went down five days later, without loss of life but with around 100 articulated lorries loaded with cigarettes, cables and one million eggs still on board.
Whilst more experienced divers zig-zag between the sunken, rusty trucks, enter the dark caverns of the sleeping hulk or the upper car deck area, some even making it to the engine room, there was plenty for Peter and his children to see outside the Zenobia, which has become a magnet for marine life.
After their fun, deep sea diving experience, the Andres took time to chill out, even having a go at fishing before tucking into a traditional Cypriot BBQ lunch, washed down with quality Zivania (for Pete of course)! It’s safe to say a great day was had by all!
Cyprus benefits from great weather all year round and with sea temperatures not dropping below 15 degrees, diving is a great choice whatever the season. The Zenobia site alone attracts 45,000 visitors every year! Why not check it out next time you’re on the island. Get in touch with Zenobia Divers on +357 96 444504, email [email protected] or visit www.zenobiadivers.com. You can also follow them on Facebook: Zenobia Divers.
Andrea Georgiou
With thanks to Andy Economou
