The AVANTIS III wreck near Agistri is one of the most impressive modern shipwreck dives in Greece, offering massive scale, deep exploration, and multiple penetration opportunities.
Dive Overview
On November 19, 2004, the cargo ship AVANTIS III departed from Mesolongi for what would become its final voyage.
The vessel struck the island of Dorousa near Agistri and sank within 20 minutes, tragically taking with it the ship’s 35-year-old cook, Vasilis Koronis.
Today, the wreck rests upright on the seabed and has become one of the premier wreck diving destinations in Greece.
The bow begins at 17 meters, the propeller sits at 41 meters, and the maximum depth reaches approximately 48 meters.
Because of its enormous size — roughly 80 meters long and 13 meters wide — the wreck cannot realistically be explored in a single dive.
Entry & Conditions
Access to the wreck is possible only by boat.
Divers can moor directly to the permanent buoy installed at the site.
Non-divers accompanying the trip should know that the wreck occasionally releases fuel residues, which can cause discomfort, especially while waiting onboard.
The buoy line can also be used as a descent and ascent line.
On most days, visibility is good enough for the wreck to be partially visible from the surface.
What You ‘ll See
The AVANTIS III offers a wide variety of exploration opportunities for both recreational and technical divers.
The wreck remains relatively recent, and many interior sections are still well preserved.
The bridge is in remarkably good condition, with instruments and control panels still visible in place.
The ship’s name can clearly be seen near the bow section.
The massive propeller rests at 41 meters depth and provides access toward the engine room area.
The cargo holds allow trained wreck divers to penetrate inside and observe remnants of the cargo, together with the large rupture caused by the collision.
Because the wreck has not fully deteriorated, enclosed spaces remain structurally fragile.
Sections of ceiling and wall plating may detach unexpectedly, especially inside penetration areas.
Particular caution is also required around corroded and oxygenated metal edges throughout the wreck.
Important Consideration
- Deep wreck dive
- Penetration requires proper wreck training
- Fragile interior structure
- Sharp metal surfaces throughout the wreck
- Fuel residue may occasionally appear
Depth Profile
The wreck starts at approximately 17 meters, while deeper sections including the propeller and engine room area reach 41–48 meters.
Tips for divers
- Plan multiple dives to properly explore the wreck
- Use gloves and full exposure protection
- Monitor gas carefully during deeper exploration
- Maintain excellent buoyancy inside enclosed spaces
- Use the buoy line for controlled ascents and descents
Why this dive stands Out
AVANTIS III stands out for its enormous scale, preserved bridge, deep propeller section, and advanced wreck penetration opportunities.
Scubadiver.gr would like to thank Mr. Leonidas Stavrou for his help with this guide.
