Scuba Diving in Greece | Best Spots
Until 2005, diving the Greek Islands was very limited. Very strict regulation meant that only 10% of the 16,000 kilometers of Greek coastline was open to underwater exploration. Scuba diving in Greece was always popular with Europeans in the know, but since the rules were eased the seas have opened up to a wider audience. The best spots for scuba diving in Greece are listed below.
HMHS Britannic Wreck (Kea)
A sister ship to the Titanic, this Olympic-class ocean liner was a hospital ship until it was sunk by an underwater mine in the Aegean Sea off the coast of the island Kea (Tzia). The site was discovered by marine legend Jacques Cousteau in 1975 and is not advised for beginners due to the depth and complexity involved in exploring the wreck, but it is a revelation for ambitious divers and a favourite of the experts.
Shinaria Beach (Crete)
Crete is the largest of all the Greek Islands with a dramatic and expansive coastline. Expect to see multi-colored fish of numerous species along with a fever of manta rays gracefully passing by. This is another unforgettable sight that is not uncommon here. Visibility is excellent thanks to the clarity of the waters, making this one of the best spots in the Mediterranean for a fairly relaxed and secluded dive experience. The best time to visit Shinaria beach is from May to late September.
Marathonisi Turtle Island (Zakynthos)
Not only does the uninhabited island Marathonisi resemble a turtle in shape, it also a birthplace of the Caretta-Caretta turtles. These wonderful creatures swim thousands of miles to return here and lay their eggs on one of the two main beaches on Marathonisi. This is not a technically challenging site and so it’s perfect for beginners. The best period for diving are the warmer months from May to September, with water temperatures from 16 – 23°C.
Tragonisi Island Caverns (Mykonos)
Diving is undergoing a huge surge in popularity. The dive location at Dragonisi Island off the south east coast of Mykonos is a true gem. The island is uninhabited so make sure there are provisions and request the captain drop anchor at the correct coordinates for the island caverns. Jump into and find the most spectacular natural rock formations. These monumental cavern walls are the result of thousands of years of eroding waves. Glassfish and vibrant yellow sea anemones are everywhere and it’s normal to encounter monk seals as they take refuge nearby.
