Scuba diving in Heraklion

Under the surface of the calm, turquoise waters surrounding Heraklion lies a vibrant world of graceful eels, curious dolphins and colorful sea sponges. You can explore this underwater paradise on a scuba diving tour in Heraklion.

There's an experience to suit everyone, from beginner-friendly excursions to thrilling night dives and shipwreck discoveries. Whether you're simply curious about diving or are eager to be enveloped by a school of tuna, you should consider adding this activity to your itinerary.

Here's everything you need to know about scuba diving tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Heraklion.

What are the best scuba diving tours in Heraklion?

Scuba diving experience for beginners in Heraklion

Those without any certifications can dip their toe into scuba diving on this introductory tour.

With a professional instructor, you'll learn the do's and don'ts of diving before exploring the seas surrounding Agia Pelagia. Swimming down to the sea bed, you'll have the opportunity to seek out moray eels, turtles and octopi, all while under the watchful eye of your instructor.

Shore dive in Heraklion

Experienced divers can reach greater depths on this scuba excursion from Mononaftis Beach. You'll explore the 17-meter deep waters of Amphora Cave, which provide an insight into Minoan civilization.

Here, you'll journey back in time as you discover the site where traders transferred goods up to 5,000 years ago. You'll also get up close with a natural underwater balcony, as well as the sea bed, to determine what makes this cave such a unique diving experience.

Nighttime scuba diving tour in Heraklion

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience on this memorable night dive. As part of a small group, you'll begin your exploration of the ocean once the sun has set, with a head torch to help you navigate your way through the waters.

You'll have a greater chance of seeing a wide variety of fish and sea creatures than during the day, and you'll feel a sense of tranquility wash over you, surrounded by the cool, dark and silent ocean.  These experiences take place in the seas surrounding Mononaftis Beach or Agia Pelagia, both of which are known to be some of the best diving spots in Crete.

Full-day shipwreck scuba diving tour

If you want to stretch out your diving experience, you can do so by choosing this full-day tour. You'll journey to Kaloi Limenes Beach, where you'll suit up and enter the water to explore the shipwreck of the Byron I, which sank in 1975.

After discovering the remains of this cargo ship, you can explore it with the help of your experienced guide. When your dive ends, you'll head to a local taverna to refuel with a mouthwatering selection of Cretan food.

How much do scuba diving tours in Heraklion cost?

The most budget-friendly scuba diving tours in Heraklion are shore dives, which are aimed at certified divers and cost €40 per person.

Nighttime tours typically cost €60 each, while those that are suitable for beginners cost between €60 and €70 per person.

For a full-day shipwreck scuba diving tour, you can expect to pay €150 to €180 each.

What is included in a scuba diving tour in Heraklion?

You'll always be accompanied by a professional on any scuba diving tour in Heraklion. These trips also include all necessary diving equipment and most provide refreshments. Full-day excursions typically include lunch in the price.

Where do scuba diving tours in Heraklion start?

Most diving trips in Heraklion offer a convenient accommodation pickup and drop-off service. You'll simply select your hotel from a drop-down list and wait in the lobby at a predetermined time to be collected by your guide.

How long do scuba diving tours in Heraklion last?

Scuba diving tours in Heraklion range significantly in duration. Some experiences, such as nighttime dives, last just an hour, while full-day tours can last around 7 hours.

It's worth noting that you will not be diving for the entire duration of your excursion as you'll spend time engaging in a briefing, traveling to the site and gearing up.

When is the best time for a scuba diving tour in Heraklion?

The scuba diving season in Crete runs from April to October, during which time you can expect mild water temperatures and visibility can reach up to 30 meters. Conditions are most favorable during the summer, however tours during spring and fall are less crowded.

Most tours begin between 8:30 AM and 9 AM, but if you wish to see the underwater world at its most active, opt for a nighttime excursion.

Is it safe to take a scuba diving tour in Heraklion?

Scuba diving is a safe and exhilarating activity for most people. You'll be in the hands of a capable expert at all times and have access to the best protective equipment. However, those with heart or respiratory conditions, as well as pregnant women and persons with epilepsy, are advised against participating.

Are children allowed on a scuba diving tour in Heraklion?

Age restrictions vary significantly between each scuba diving tour in Heraklion. Many prohibit those under 18 from participating, however, others welcome those aged 15 and over. On some beginner-friendly excursions, children over the age of 8 are allowed to join in. Consult the booking page of your selected tour to see if it's suitable for your party.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Heraklion diving excursions require good weather to operate. If the conditions aren't right, your tour will be rebooked for another day of your vacation. If this isn't suitable, you can request a full refund instead.

Which other water activities can be done in Heraklion?

• Boat tours in Heraklion
• Snorkeling in Heraklion
• Kayaking in Heraklion
• Jet ski in Heraklion
• Parasailing in Heraklion
• Jet boat in Heraklion
• Stand up paddleboarding

Travel tips

• You must be a competent swimmer with at least a moderate level of fitness to participate in a scuba diving tour in Heraklion.
• If you own an underwater camera, take it with you on your excursion to capture ever-lasting memories of your trip.
• Ensure you participate in your scuba diving experience at least 12 hours before flying to ensure excess nitrogen leaves your system.