Diving Tourism: 11 Greek Shipwrecks Now ‘Open’ for Visits

Eleven shipwrecks located near Kea, Milos, Crete, Skiathos, Evia and Halkidiki, are now open to divers/visitors for exploration, the Greek Culture Ministry recently announced.

Designated as monuments after their documentation by the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, the shipwrecks include many kinds of vessels – from ocean liners to steam- and concrete boats.

According to the culture ministry, diving and exploration is allowed only around the shipwreck’s exterior areas.

Exploration in a shipwreck’s interior may be allowed only for research purposes, following a decision by the ministry’s relevant services.

The following shipwrecks are open for visits:

– Ocean liner HMHS Britannic, Kea

– Ocean liner S/S Burdigala, Kea

– Paddlewheel steamboat Patris, Kea

– Cargo steamboat Artemis Pita, Milos

– Cargo steamboat Sifnos, Milos

– Steamboat Minnewaska, Marathi, Crete

– Shipwreck Mytilini, Kassandra, Halkidiki

– Shipwreck, Kalamitsi, Halkidiki

– Concrete ship SS Creteland, Aghis Georgios, Evia

– Concrete ship Pioneer I, Lichades, Evia

– Steamboat Volos, Lefteris reef, Pelion – Skiathos

Steamboat Minwaska, Marathi Crete

Divers are forbidden from taking any action that would further damage or contribute to the deterioration of the wrecks. The collection or movement of items located on the wrecks or on the seabed around them is also prohibited.

A day before diving, those interested must send an e-mail with their information to eea-shipwrecks@culture.gr.

According to the culture ministry, more shipwrecks will be accessible to the public soon.