Diving and snorkelling at a rare wreck
Have you ever heard of ships made of concrete? Only a few were ever built in the history of shipbuilding, and only during a very specific period. One of them now lies submerged in the waters of the Lichadonisia islets, on Northern Evia. This is the secret hidden among these exotic islets, between the North Evian Gulf and the Maliakos Gulf: the shipwreck of the German concrete vessel Pioneer I.
Concrete ships were constructed by the Germans during World War II to supply occupied territories and their forces in Africa. It is estimated that around 25 such vessels were built or were under construction in Greece, most of which were eventually wrecked, as they proved ineffective. The Pioneer I is believed to have been sailing from Chalkida to Chalkidiki in 1944, with a stop in Volos. It ran aground—there are also reports that it was attacked by resistance fighters—and sank near the Lichadonisia islets.
Divers describe the rich marine life around and inside the wreck, as well as the strong currents and rocky shallows in the area. If you’re not into diving, you can still view the ship from a boat, as it lies in relatively shallow water, at a depth of less than 10 metres. Even better, bring your mask and snorkel and dive in—always observing all safety precautions, as many fishing boats and vessels pass through the area.
The Lichadonisia islets are ideal for snorkelling in general: you’ll discover underwater caves, reefs, and schools of fish. Do not underestimate the currents, and keep in mind that the area is a refuge for seals—under no circumstances should you disturb them by getting too close.
Concrete ships were constructed by the Germans during World War II to supply occupied territories and their forces in Africa. It is estimated that around 25 such vessels were built or were under construction in Greece, most of which were eventually wrecked, as they proved ineffective. The Pioneer I is believed to have been sailing from Chalkida to Chalkidiki in 1944, with a stop in Volos. It ran aground—there are also reports that it was attacked by resistance fighters—and sank near the Lichadonisia islets.
Divers describe the rich marine life around and inside the wreck, as well as the strong currents and rocky shallows in the area. If you’re not into diving, you can still view the ship from a boat, as it lies in relatively shallow water, at a depth of less than 10 metres. Even better, bring your mask and snorkel and dive in—always observing all safety precautions, as many fishing boats and vessels pass through the area.
The Lichadonisia islets are ideal for snorkelling in general: you’ll discover underwater caves, reefs, and schools of fish. Do not underestimate the currents, and keep in mind that the area is a refuge for seals—under no circumstances should you disturb them by getting too close.
