Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving in Greece
June 12, 2024
Greece is a land of ancient myths and breathtaking landscapes, but it is also home to a fantastic underwater world for scuba divers to explore. With diverse marine life, excellent visibility, and historical wrecks, Greece offers adventures for divers of all abilities. But with so many idyllic islands, choosing where to go diving in Greece can be tricky! So we have created the ultimate guide to diving in Greece, including top dive sites, the best time to go, how to get there, and essential tips for an unforgettable vacation.
5 Best Dive Sites Around Greece
1. Chios Island Caves
Chios is one of the top-rated places to go scuba diving in Greece and hosts an array of dive sites, including the Chios Islands Caves. This labyrinth of caves and tunnels is covered in colorful sponges and corals and boasts a variety of marine life. Keep an eye open for octopuses, lobsters, and sea turtles hiding within the crevices. The underwater topography here offers something for divers of all levels, from shallow explorations to deeper cave dives.
- Location: Chios Island, Eastern Aegean Sea.
- Depth: 5-40 meters (16-131 feet).
- Diving level: Beginner/Advanced.
2. Elephant’s Cave
Elephant’s Cave, a submerged cavern with stalactites and stalagmites that resemble an elephant’s trunk, is one of the highlights of diving in the Ionian Islands. Explore the cavern’s chambers and crevices, home to an array of marine life, including colorful reef fish and moray eels.
- Location: Kefalonia, Ionian Sea.
- Maximum Depth: 25 meters (82 feet).
- Diving level: Advanced.
3. Spinalonga Reef
Diving in Crete offers encounters with abundant marine life, including at Spinalonga Reef. Discover this vibrant reef, teeming with marine biodiversity. Swim alongside schools of damselfish, wrasses, and trumpetfish, while colorful corals and sponges carpet the seabed. Keep an eye out for larger inhabitants, such as groupers, barracudas, and even occasional sightings of dolphins.
- Location: Crete, Southern Aegean Sea.
- Maximum Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
- Diving level: Advanced
Want some more excellent European diving destinations? Here you go: Diving in Europe
4. Nea Kameni Volcano
Santorini is one of the most unique places to go scuba diving in Greece, offering diving at two islands in a volcanic caldera: Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. There you can dive among submerged lava formations and underwater vents, surrounded by schools of fish and vibrant marine life. The volcanic rock formations and unique geological features make this an ideal place for underwater photography.
- Location: Santorini, Southern Aegean Sea.
- Maximum Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
- Diving Conditions: Advanced
5. The Wall
Rhodes is famous for its beaches and offers diverse diving among interesting volcanic rock formations. Descend along a vertical drop at The Wall, a dramatic underwater cliff teeming with marine life such as colorful reef fish, octopuses, and moray eels. Keep an eye on the blue for larger pelagic species, including tuna and barracudas, patrolling the depths.
- Location: Rhodes, the Aegean Sea.
- Maximum Depth: 40 meters (131 feet).
- Diving Conditions: Advanced.
Need a few more places to go scuba diving in Greece? We have got you covered: 9 Best Places to Dive in Greece
Top Tips for Scuba Diving in Greece
- Respect Marine Life: While diving, maintain a safe distance from marine life and refrain from touching or disturbing them. Respect the delicate balance of the underwater ecosystems.
- Stay Hydrated: The Mediterranean sun can be intense in the summer, so remember to stay hydrated before, during, and after your dives. Bring plenty of water and reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Check Weather Conditions: Scuba diving in Greece is known for its vivid blue waters, which are usually calm and offer excellent visibility. Nonetheless, keep an eye on weather forecasts and sea conditions before heading out for a dive. Avoid diving in rough seas or strong currents to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Carry a Dive Log: Maintain a dive log, including dive sites, depths, marine life sightings, and any noteworthy experiences. It is a great way to track your progress as a diver and reminisce about past dives.
Things to do on your non-diving days in Greece
Year after year, Greece attracts tourists from around the world. From hiking trails to sunbathing on beautiful beaches, indulging in local cuisine, and discovering hidden gems in bustling markets, there is something for every traveler to savor in this Mediterranean paradise. Think your non-diving days might be boring? Think again:
Hiking Adventures: Hiking in Greece’s rugged landscapes is a must when you go scuba diving in Greece. Hike the trails of Mount Olympus (home to the mythical gods) or explore the Samaria Gorge in Crete; a breathtaking canyon offering stunning views, with rare flora and fauna. Traverse the ancient stone paths of the Pelion Peninsula, winding through picturesque villages and forests.
Shopping: Greece’s vibrant markets and boutique shops offer souvenirs made with modern craftsmanship. Explore the bustling streets of Athens’ Plaka district, lined with charming shops offering handmade crafts, artisanal souvenirs, and local delicacies. Thessaloniki’s Modiano Market is another gem for shoppers, where visitors can sample authentic traditional Greek flavors.
Beach Bliss: Discover Greece’s stunning beaches, where blue waters lap against golden sands. Lounge under the Mediterranean sun on the shores of Mykonos or Santorini; both known for their postcard-perfect views. Escape to the secluded coves of Zakynthos or Corfu, where you are promised relaxation and rejuvenation.
Culinary Delights: Speaking of flavor… Savor Greece’s world-renowned culinary scene, where fresh ingredients and centuries-old recipes create mouthwatering food. When you go scuba diving in Greece, you will be well-fueled!
Dine alfresco at local tavernas, indulging in grilled seafood, savory mezes, and traditional moussaka. Sample the island specialties of Crete, from hearty salads to succulent lamb dishes infused with fragrant herbs. Do not miss the opportunity to sip on Greek coffee at a cozy café or enjoy a glass of ouzo while watching the sunset.
Best Time to Go Scuba Diving in Greece
The best time for scuba diving in Greece is from May to October. During this period, the weather is warm, and the sea temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), making for comfortable diving. The visibility underwater is also at its best during these months, often reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet)... it does not get much clearer than that!
How to Get There
Getting to Greece is relatively easy no matter where you are coming from, thanks to its well-connected airports and ferry services. The main international airports in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion are gateways to the rest of the country.
From there, you can easily reach popular diving destinations like Crete, Santorini, and Rhodes by domestic flights or ferries. Once you have arrived at your destination, there is a choice of training centers to dive with. Take a look at the SSI Center Locator to find yours.
From ancient wrecks to reefs, Greece promises an unforgettable dive vacation.
Feeling inspired to go scuba diving in Greece? Find your perfect islands and dive sites here: