In the enchanting wealth hidden under the crystal clear waters of Protaras, the Municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia is investing, in an effort to increase diving tourism, which counts about 50,000 people annually. Through a modern Dive Guide, which illuminates 12 separate dive sites, it highlights the underwater treasures of the area, which include impressive caves, reefs, shipwrecks, underwater meadows, sculptures and sea turtles.
The aim of the underwater map, as reported to "F" by the Municipality, which provided impressive photos of the dive sites, is to introduce a different Protaras to the public in an organized way. For each point, the depth, the location, the degree of difficulty, the special characteristics of the seabed and what is worth paying attention to a diver are presented. At the same time, QR codes are integrated to easily locate the locations.
The publication of a special album on the marine fauna and flora of the area called The Marine Jewels of Protaras (trans. The Sea Diamonds of Protaras), in collaboration with the renowned underwater photographer Sakis Lazaridis, has the same purpose.
The 12 points of the Dive Guide
1. Cyclops Cave: The Cyclops Cave is located near Konnos, at a depth of about 40 meters and is aimed at experienced divers. The underwater relief is characterized by steep rock formations, arches, boulders and cavernous passages.
2. Octopus Reef: Its seabed is rich in life, with sandy channels, rock formations, and grasslands of marine vegetation. It reaches a depth of about 30 meters and is an area where one can spot octopuses.
3. Queen's Baths: With only about 10 meters deep, it is one of the most affordable options, as it is also aimed at those who choose snorkelling. It stands out for its underwater remains and the "Roman wall".
4. Klavdia – The Trench: This is a coastal dive, south of Green Bay, reaching about 25 meters. Its name is due to the morphology of the seabed, which resembles an underwater trench with a gradual descent.
5. Green Bay Blue Hole: Rated as one of the most atmospheric dives in the region. With a maximum depth of 18 meters, it combines passages between rocks, small caves and a larger underwater cavity.
6. Green Bay: It is perhaps the most recognizable diving spot of Protaras, as it is a reference point for those who know the area. This is where the well-known underwater statues are located, while the presence of turtles enhances the diving experience. There are also ancient amphora fragments embedded in the reef, a reminder of the coastline's long historical history.
7. De Costa Bay: It is a protected, calm, cove with a maximum depth of 20 meters. The underwater meadows of Posidonia create an important habitat, while turtles, octopuses, schools of fish and other marine organisms complete the picture.
8. Artificial Reef – Golden Coast: Between Green Bay and Blue Hole is an artificial reef that reaches approximately 24 meters. Underwater sculptures, ceramic fragments and artificial structures have created a special environment, which gradually acts as a refuge for marine life.
9. Nemesis Wreck: One of the most important shipwrecks in the area is the Nemesis III, a former French fishing vessel built in 1956 and sunk to a depth of about 26 meters in December 2013, as part of the actions to create an artificial reef near Pernera.
10. Liberty Wreck: A short distance away, one also encounters the Liberty wreck, located at a depth of 28 meters. The shipwreck is of particular interest due to the structure and marine life that has developed around it.
11. The Cross – Artificial Reef: Between the two shipwrecks is one of the most unusual underwater spots in the area. At a depth of about 24 meters, a two-meter-high cross has been placed in memory of the Russian explorer and navigator Fyodor Konyukhov, as well as a statue of the Virgin Mary.
12. Kapparis Hidden Spots: The Guide's diving route ends in the area of Kappari, where there are small sheltered coves and rock formations. Marine vegetation, octopuses and turtles make up a different experience in the northernmost part of the Protaras Riviera.
