Top 5 Diving Destinations in Greece

The stunning turquoise waters, abundant shipwrecks, vibrant corals, and scattered seashells create a perfect backdrop for diving. In recent years, Greece has emerged as a premier destination for divers who flock there to explore the underwater marvels of the Greek islands during the summer months.

Now that we've entered the autumn season, it's the perfect time to plan a diving vacation. In September, the seas are typically calmer, the visibility is excellent, and there's an abundance of fish and other marine life to observe while diving.

Here are the top diving spots in Greece to start your underwater journey:

Santorini (Σαντορίνη)

Santorini is one of the most popular Greek islands among tourists, mainly for its incomparable sunset. However, many tourists don’t know that there is a whole new world under Santorini’s waters. The island’s volcanic nature gives the underwater landscape a unique charm. Αλσο, τhe high salt concentration of the water makes diving super relaxing, almost like an underwater cruising experience.

The best diving spots in Santorini are Cape Tripiti, the Taxiarchis area with its shipwreck and the reef of Adiavati.

Chios (Χίος)

The island of Chios has some of the most beautiful caves you will find underwater. Colourful corals, unique rock formations and even shipwrecks make Chios an excellent place for underwater exploration. Diving on the island is also considered ideal for beginner divers since its waters have good visibility and temperatures are moderate.

Elinda, Prasonisi and Trachili are some of the most popular diving spots.

Zakynthos/Zante (Ζάκυνθος)

Zakynthos, renowned as a premier tourist destination in Greece, offers a diver's paradise recognized globally. The island's waters, particularly in the southwest, conceal a fascinating underwater world. The combination of rich flora and fauna, crystal-clear turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and captivating caves provide a perfect setting for idyllic diving experiences. Diving in Zakynthos, you're likely to encounter the Caretta-Caretta sea turtle or the Mediterranean seal Monachus-Monachus.

The best places to dive in Zakynthos are the Laganas and Turtle beaches, as well as the internationally renowned National Marine Park.

Kalymnos (Κάλυμνος)

Kalymnos is a pole of attraction for diving fans due to its abundance of sponges, reefs, caves and shipwrecks, creating a dreamy setting that truly remains unforgettable. The waters of Kalymnos have high visibility and low smooth currents, while a rich ecosystem is hiding in between the unique rocky sea floor of the island. Oftentimes, divers see big tuna fish and even dolphins during dives in Kalymnos.

Therma—Pithari, the diving park, the sponge farms in Kastelli and Kambi, and Diapori of Leros attract the most divers.

Crete (Κρήτη)

The island of Crete is famous around the world for its rich history, unique culture, pink sand, and sun-kissed coasts. However, its underwater world is equally popular among divers. Its imposing wild beauty continues in the sea with formations of abysses, caves, and reefs. Numerous shipwrecks and plane crates also showcase the island's history.

Dozens of impressive diving spots are located in the Gulf of Souda, and on the rocky shores from Kalyves to Georgioupolis. Among them the underwater Cave of Elephants, the Skinaria beach, the cape of Spatha and the cape of Gramvousa, the shores of Kavo Sidero and of course, Koufonisi.

The cost of diving in Greece can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the type of dive, and the diving centre. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:

1. Discovery Dives (for beginners or those who haven't dived in a while):
   • Price: €60 - €100
   • Includes: Typically a brief introductory lesson, equipment rental, and a guided dive.
2. Single Fun Dives (for certified divers):
   • Price: €40 - €70 per dive
   • Includes: Rental of basic equipment (tank, weights, etc.) and a guided dive.
3. Dive Packages:
   • Price: €200 - €500 for 5 to 10 dives
   • Includes: Often includes equipment rental, guided dives, and sometimes transport to dive sites.
4. Certification Courses (like Open Water Diver):
   • Price: €300 - €500
   • Includes: Training materials, equipment rental, dives, and certification fees.
5. Specialty Courses (like Deep Diver, and Night Diver):
   • Price: €200 - €400
   • Includes: Specific training for the specialty, equipment rental, and certification.
6. Boat Dives:
   • Price: €50 - €80 per dive
   • Includes: Boat transportation to dive sites, and sometimes refreshments.
7. Private Diving Services:
   • Price: Can range from €150 - €300 per dive
   • Includes: Personalized attention, private guide, and sometimes customized dive plans.

Prices can vary based on the region (e.g., islands like Crete or Santorini might be more expensive), the time of year, and the diving centre's reputation. It’s always a good idea to check with local dive shops for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.

If you are a sea lover, do something different and memorable on your vacation to Greece, and dive deeper so that you discover a new world hidden under the surface of the water, immersed in absolute peace and tranquillity.

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