Kea’s waters hold four historically significant shipwrecks, including the Britannic — the Titanic’s sister ship — making the island one of the most distinctive dive destinations in the Aegean for wreck diving.

The Wrecks

The four wrecks associated with Kea are:

• HMHS Britannic — the White Star Line hospital ship, sister to the Titanic, which sank in 1916 during World War I after striking a mine. The Britannic lies in around 120 metres of water and is one of the most visited deep wrecks in the Mediterranean
• Burdigala — a French ocean liner, also sunk in 1916 after striking a mine
• Patris — a paddlewheel steamboat
• Junkers 52 — a German transport aircraft from World War II

Important Notes on Access

The wrecks in Kea’s waters are protected under Greek law as underwater heritage sites. Diving to protected wrecks requires a licensed operator and in some cases special permits. Do not attempt to dive independently on protected sites — work with a licensed local dive centre and confirm the current regulations applicable to each wreck before booking. Requirements, access and permit conditions can change.

General Diving Around Kea

Beyond the wrecks, Kea’s underwater environment includes rocky seabeds, sea caves and varied marine life accessible to recreational divers of different experience levels. Vourkari is the natural base for diving operations, given its harbour facilities and proximity to the main dive sites. Check with local dive centres in and around Vourkari and Korissia for current available dives, courses and guiding services.

Also in Kea