Discover: Greece

Greece combines world-class diving with ancient history, stunning islands, and crystal-clear waters. With thousands of kilometers of coastline and hundreds of islands, it offers some of the most diverse dive experiences in the Mediterranean. Whether you're exploring submerged caves, ancient amphorae, or modern wrecks, diving in Greece is about more than marine life—it's about diving into history. Recent changes in legislation have opened up more archaeological sites to divers, giving you access to underwater ruins that were off-limits for decades.

• Shallow Reefs for Beginners: Around Crete, Corfu, and Halkidiki, you'll find calm bays and shallow reefs ideal for learning or relaxed diving. Sites like Paleokastritsa offer gentle slopes, clear visibility, and an easy entry from shore, making them perfect for new divers.
• Advanced Deep Wall Dives: The Blue Hole in Santorini and the walls near Kalymnos offer dramatic drop-offs, swim-throughs, and caverns for experienced divers. These sites often require good buoyancy control and navigation skills but reward with depth and solitude.
• Wreck Diving Opportunities: Greece is a goldmine for wreck diving. The wreck of the HMS Perseus off Kefalonia, a WWII British submarine sitting at 52 meters (170 feet), is a major draw for technical divers. Other accessible sites include the Patris ferry and the Kyra Eleni cargo ship, both rich with marine life and history.
• Night Diving Spots: Dive sites around Naxos and Paros come alive at night with cuttlefish, sleeping groupers, and bioluminescent plankton. These islands offer protected bays where the calm water makes for safe and mesmerizing night dives.

The Mediterranean may not have the same density of large pelagics as tropical waters, but Greek seas are home to groupers, octopuses, moray eels, nudibranchs, and loggerhead turtles. You'll also spot scorpionfish, sea bream, and barracuda in deeper or protected areas. The best time for marine life spotting is between May and October, with peak biodiversity in late summer. Many regions, including parts of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, are now part of marine parks aimed at protecting vulnerable species like the endangered monk seal.

Greece has a long dive season running from April to November. Water temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in spring to 27°C (81°F) in late summer. Visibility is consistently excellent—typically 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet)—thanks to low sediment and minimal freshwater runoff. Currents are generally weak, especially in enclosed bays and around smaller islands, but can increase around channels and underwater ridges. Tides are minor and rarely impact diving schedules.

You'll find well-equipped dive centers on most major islands and coastal towns. These shops offer full-service options, including PADI, SSI, and CMAS certifications, guided dives, gear rentals, and day trips to remote sites. Most instructors are multilingual, and many are trained in first aid and rescue protocols. Safety standards are solid, though it's wise to inspect rental gear if you're diving multiple days. Many dive centers in Greece also participate in local conservation efforts and archaeological preservation programs.

Popular dive bases include Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Zakynthos, Corfu, and smaller islands like Naxos and Kalymnos. These areas offer everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury beach resorts. Some accommodations cater specifically to divers with rinse stations, gear storage, and partnerships with local dive shops. Staying near the harbor or main dive hub typically means shorter transfer times and easier access to early morning dives.

Greece is easily accessible via direct international flights into Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion (Crete), and several island airports. Ferries connect mainland ports with most islands, and domestic flights are a fast alternative during peak season. Most travelers from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Transportation on the islands includes rental cars, scooters, buses, and taxis—many dive centers offer hotel transfers for convenience.

Plan for at least 5 to 7 days to explore multiple dive sites and enjoy the local culture. Many dive centers offer discounted multi-dive or course packages, especially for groups. While solo divers are welcome, it’s often easier to join a buddy group arranged by the operator. Booking dives ahead of time is recommended in July and August, when tourism peaks. If you’re planning to visit multiple islands, coordinate ferry schedules to avoid missed connections between dive days and transfers.

When you’re not diving, Greece delivers unforgettable experiences on land: hike ancient ruins in Delphi, wander through the old towns of Rhodes and Chania, or relax on secluded beaches. Culinary exploration is a must—think grilled octopus, fresh feta, and ouzo at a seaside taverna. Most islands have lively but laid-back nightlife, ranging from beach bars to traditional music venues. Cultural festivals and village celebrations are common in the summer months, adding a local touch to your trip.

Hyperbaric chambers are located in Athens, Crete (Heraklion), and Thessaloniki. It's essential to dive with operators that have clear emergency protocols and access plans. Dive maps, marine park regulations, and weather reports are readily available at most dive centers. Greece enforces strict rules on removing artifacts or disturbing historical sites underwater—violations can lead to fines or legal action. Many sites are within marine protected areas where anchoring, spearfishing, and certain activities are prohibited.

Book your dives directly through dive center websites or via trusted travel platforms. Most operators require a deposit to secure your spot, particularly during high season. Cancellation policies vary but typically allow changes with at least 48 hours’ notice. Be sure to bring your certification card, logbook, and medical clearance if needed. If you're planning to dive multiple islands or deep wrecks, confirm availability well in advance, as not all operators service every site year-round.