Diving atThe Hole / Green BAY Caves (Cyprus)
Green Bay Caves, known locally as The Hole, once served as an archaeological research area. Past human interaction with this site is evident; old pottery shards are occasionally observed integrated into the rock formations. Divers can also encounter sunken statues, intentionally placed at a recreational depth of 8-9 m (26-30 ft) to enhance the underwater experience. This location blends natural beauty with historical narratives.
As evening covers The Hole / Green BAY Caves, the local air temperature is measured at 18.4°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.16m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
34.9999, 34.0687
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Commencing with a convenient shore entry, The Hole / Green Bay Caves offers a striking blend of geological formations and historical remnants. Divers begin their journey over expansive, vibrant reef sections, gradually transitioning into a captivating network of caves and intriguing swim-throughs.
Topography here is diverse, featuring panoramic drop-offs and a notable open chamber often called the Blue Hole. These elements collectively create varied environments for exploration, appealing to different diving preferences. Generally, the dive route progresses over a gently sloping sandy bottom, which is interspersed with interesting rock formations and extensive fields of sea grass.
Recreational diving activity typically occurs within a maximum depth of 18 m (60 ft), making the site accessible for a range of certification levels. Beyond natural features, intentionally placed underwater sculptures further enhance the scenery, often found in the shallower parts of the site, contributing to its unique character.
Exploring these areas requires careful buoyancy control, particularly when navigating the more confined passages. Sunlight interacting with rock formations creates dynamic light effects in many of the swim-throughs, adding to the visual appeal.
Calm conditions in the bay contribute to comfortable navigation through the varied underwater terrain.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal visibility often characterizes the diving experience at Green Bay, frequently reaching 15 to 25 m (50-82 ft). Divers generally find conditions clear, with average visibility around 20 meters. The months of June and October generally present excellent conditions for diving, reflected in high dive scores, typically experiencing low wave heights and minimal rainfall. These periods offer stable weather patterns conducive to comfortable shore entries and smooth boat transfers. From March through November, air temperatures are inviting, ranging from 16.0°C (61°F) in March to a high of 29.4°C (85°F) in July, ensuring pleasant surface intervals. While specific water temperature data is not consistently reported, the area typically benefits from calm conditions and generally pleasant weather during these periods, ensuring a comfortable dive throughout much of the year. Consider planning visits during these identified months for the most consistent and favorable diving experiences.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Entering the water at Green Bay presents a remarkably gentle experience, often described as pool-like due to its calm and sheltered nature. This site is suitable for divers across all experience levels, including those undertaking initial training or refresher courses, thanks to its easy walk-in entrance and shallow, protected areas. Currents are typically limited, contributing to the site's tranquil feel, making it ideal for beginners and photographers. Divers can explore extensive reef structures, a series of caves, and swim-throughs within recreational depth limits. The underwater environment transitions from rocky landscapes to sea grass beds and sand flats, offering diverse habitats that support a range of marine life. Its protected location within the bay further ensures consistent water conditions, allowing for reliable dive planning regardless of minor surface chop outside the immediate area.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Awareness of surface traffic is a primary safety consideration at The Hole / Green Bay Caves, as pleasure boats may operate in the vicinity. Divers should maintain situational awareness, especially when ascending or near the surface, and ensure SMB deployment practices are followed. While currents are generally limited, understanding prevailing conditions and planning accordingly remains crucial. This site serves as a popular training location; however, all divers should adhere to their certification limits and consider a refresher if returning after a long break. Always dive with a buddy and review your dive plan thoroughly.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
In conditions like these, many divers prefer diving with 5mm wetsuit. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler.
Divers entering the water at The Hole / Green BAY Caves today can expect temperatures near 19°C (66°F) beneath the surface. Surface air temperatures are resting at 18°C (65°F).
Forecast models indicate that diving conditions should remain largely unchanged.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
EUR
Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at The Hole / Green BAY Caves
The varied underwater landscape of The Hole / Green Bay Caves supports a diverse array of marine life. Within the caves and swim-throughs, divers commonly spot hatchet-fish, squirrelfish, groupers, orange cave fish, and five-stripe cardinalfish. Exploring the reefs and sea grass beds reveals parrotfish, wrasse, trumpet fish, and sea bream. Turtles are a significant attraction, often seen grazing on sea grass, along with moray eels and octopus. Keep a keen eye for less common sightings, such as barracudas, damselfish, rainbow-lipped fish, and potentially even seahorses, particularly in the Fish Rock area.
Trumpets
Moray Eel
Moray
Damselfish
Cardinalfishes
Squirrelfish
Barracuda
Grouper
Sea Bream
Wrasse
Parrotfish
Seahorse
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at The Hole / Green Bay Caves?
Recreational diving here extends to a maximum depth of 18 meters. Shallower sections contain features like sunken statues, often found around 8-9 meters. Diving here caters to a wide range of certification levels.
Is this dive site suitable for beginners?
Yes, The Hole / Green Bay Caves is considered an excellent training site, suitable for divers of all levels. It features an easy walk-in entrance and calm, sheltered shallow water conditions.
What type of marine life can be seen?
Divers frequently encounter turtles, moray eels, octopus, and various fish like parrotfish, trumpet fish, and sea bream. Inside the caves, you might find hatchet-fish, squirrelfish, and orange cave fish.
What are the typical water conditions?
Conditions at this site are generally calm and sheltered, frequently described as pool-like with limited currents. Visibility often ranges from 15 to 25 meters, averaging around 20 meters.
Are there any specific safety warnings?
A primary safety consideration is the potential presence of pleasure boats in the vicinity. Divers should maintain awareness of surface traffic and adhere to standard safe diving practices.
What is the best time of year to dive here?
While generally good throughout the year, June and October often offer excellent diving conditions with low wave heights and minimal rain. The period from March through November provides pleasant air temperatures.
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