Diving in Crete

Crete is Greece’s largest island that is located off its southernmost between Greece and Turkey. The island is known for its diverse terrain, which ranges from fine-sand beaches at Elafonisi to the White Mountains. Mt. Ida is the tallest of these mountains and is home to the Ideon Cave which, according to Greek mythology, was the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods.

The island is a popular tourist destination and with 1,046 kilometers (650 miles) of coastline, you have your pick of dive – and even snorkeling – sites. The Aegean Sea here is warm and clear and there is an abundance of beautiful marine life that lives under the surface, including unique black coral. You can also discover fantastic rock formations and even stone arches, which become all the more interesting if you explore them on a night dive – a particularly popular activity around this island.

There are dive sites for all levels, as ample snorkeling and other activities if you are travelling with non-divers. You can take your pick from the many hotels and resorts while boat trips offer the chance to drop anchor in waters of the clearest blue and start your dive – it all makes Crete an ideal diving destination.

The descriptions provided here are intended as general information and personal experiences related to specific dive sites and locations and should not be construed as definitive advice or recommendations. Before diving, please confirm that diving is permitted at your chosen location, and comply with all relevant local laws, regulations, and posted signage. The responsibility for verifying the legality of the dive and assessing any associated risks rests entirely with you.