Diving & Snorkelling in the Peloponnese
From the sunken city of Epidaurus to the drowned Bronze Age town of Pavlopetri, the Peloponnese hides some of the most fascinating underwater sites in Greece – many of them shallow enough to explore with just a mask and snorkel. Here are the highlights and the dive centres of the region, and how to add a dive or a snorkel to your trip.
Underwater highlights
The sunken city of Epidaurus
Palaia Epidavros, Argolida
At the edge of the bay of Palaia Epidavros, the remains of ancient buildings, including a Roman villa, lie only a few metres under the surface. Perfect for snorkelling and first dives, and only a short drive from Nafplio and the ancient theatre.
SnorkellingBeginnersPavlopetri
Opposite Elafonisos, Laconia
The oldest known submerged town in the world, about 5,000 years old, with streets and building foundations at a depth of 3–4 metres between Pounta beach and the islet of Pavlopetri. A protected site: snorkel from the surface, follow the marked routes and never touch or step on the ruins.
SnorkellingProtected siteThe Mani coast
Limeni and the west coast of Mani
Steep rocky shores, sea caves and very clear water along the coast of Mani – a beautiful setting for boat and shore dives, close to Areopoli and the Diros Caves.
ScubaCavesPylos and the Messinian coast
Navarino Bay, Marathopoli
Reefs and calm bays around the historic Navarino Bay, where the great naval battle of 1827 took place. Try-dives for beginners start from Marathopoli, north of Pylos.
ScubaBeginnersPorto Heli and the Argolic Gulf
Southern Argolida
Colourful sea beds and sheltered bays at the tip of the Argolida, with Spetses and Hydra across the water.
ScubaCourses
Dive centres in the Peloponnese
These are independent, certified dive centres in the region. Tell us which one fits your trip – or let us suggest one – and we will check availability for your dates and arrange your transfer and hotel.
Epidive
Harbour of Palaia Epidavros, Argolida
Try-dives, courses and certifications (SSI, PADI, CMAS), guided dives on reefs, walls and the ancient sunken city, a wreck dive, snorkelling and boat trips.
Porto Heli Scuba Club
Porto Heli, Argolida
PADI 5-Star Dive Resort: scuba and snorkelling courses, Nitrox, technical diving and freediving courses, equipment rental.
Mani Diving Center
Limeni, Mani
SSI centre: boat and shore dives, wreck diving, snorkelling trips, courses and equipment rental. English and Greek spoken.
Scuba Turtles Dive Center
Marathopoli, near Pylos
PADI "Discover Scuba Diving" for beginners from 10 years old, at the Skalakia reef, with all equipment included.
Kalamata Freedivers
Kalamata, Messinia
Freediving – diving on a single breath – with training for beginners and experienced freedivers.
Dive centre services and seasons can change; we confirm everything with the centre before your trip.
Add a dive to your trip
A dive or a snorkel fits easily into our trips around the Peloponnese:
Or travel straight to the coast with a private transfer:
Frequently asked questions
I have never dived before. Can I still try?
Yes. A try-dive with an instructor needs no experience: after a short briefing you dive in shallow, calm water. You only need to be comfortable in the water and in good health.
Can I visit the sunken cities without diving?
Yes. The sunken city of Epidaurus and Pavlopetri are both shallow, at only a few metres, so you can see them with a mask and snorkel.
When is the best time to dive in the Peloponnese?
From May to October, when the sea is warmest and calmest. September and early October are often the best months, with warm water and fewer people.
Do I need my own equipment?
No. The dive centres rent all the equipment. Certified divers should bring their certification card and logbook.
Tell us your dates, where you are staying and your diving level, and we will reply within 24 hours.
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