Diving & Snorkelling in Crete
With more than a thousand kilometres of coastline, Crete offers some of the most varied diving in Greece: underwater caves and rocky drop-offs in the west, very clear water on the south coast, sheltered bays near Heraklion and the remains of ancient settlements under the sea in the east. Dive centres operate all around the island, with try-dives for beginners and boat dives for certified divers.
Underwater highlights
Chania and western Crete
Souda Bay, Kalyves – Georgioupolis, Gramvousa
Rocky coasts with caves and drop-offs. Near Drapano lies the "Elephant Cave", an underwater cave named after the fossilised elephant bones found on its floor.
CavesCertified diversRethymno and the south coast
Skinaria near Plakias
One of the most impressive sea beds of Crete, rich in marine life, with visibility that can exceed 40 metres – a favourite of the island's dive schools.
ReefsClear waterHeraklion
Agia Pelagia, Achlada, Dia island
Sheltered bays west of Heraklion are ideal for first dives and courses, with boat trips to the island of Dia from Hersonissos and Malia.
BeginnersCoursesLassithi and eastern Crete
Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Sitia, Ierapetra
Rich sea beds around Cape Sidero and the Dionysades islets, and the remains of ancient settlements under the water at Elounda, Itanos and Koufonisi – mostly explored by snorkelling.
SnorkellingAncient remains
Dive centres in Crete
Crete has many dive centres. These are some of the established centres in each area. Tell us where you are staying – or let us suggest a centre – and we will check availability for your dates and arrange your transfer and hotel.
Atlantis Diving
Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno
Dives and courses on the north coast near Rethymno and trips to the south.
Blue Adventures Diving
Chania
Dives and courses on the coast of western Crete.
Diver's Club Crete
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion
Guided dives and courses in the sheltered bays of Agia Pelagia.
Dive centre services and seasons can change; we confirm everything with the centre before your trip.
Plan your trip to Crete
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best diving in Crete?
Each part of the island is different: caves in the west around Chania, very clear water on the south coast near Plakias, easy bays for beginners near Heraklion and rich sea beds in the east around Sitia.
Can beginners dive in Crete?
Yes. Most dive centres offer try-dives with an instructor in shallow, sheltered water.
When is the diving season?
Mainly from April to November; the water is warmest from July to October.
Can I snorkel without diving?
Yes – many coves have clear, shallow water, and the sunken remains near Elounda are best seen with a mask and snorkel.
Tell us your dates, where you are staying and your diving level, and we will reply within 24 hours.
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Header photo: Agia Pelagia – Shadowgate, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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