Thinking about trying scuba diving during your trip to Crete? If so, this Introduction to Scuba Diving tour by Stay Wet Diving Center offers a straightforward, friendly way to dip your toes into the underwater world. It’s designed for beginners, with no prior experience necessary, and your safety is a priority throughout.
What I appreciate about this experience is how it balances structured learning with the thrill of actually getting underwater — two dives, each around 45 minutes, give you a real sense of what diving feels like. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8 participants) means plenty of individual attention, which is reassuring for first-timers.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include transfers from your hotel, so you’ll need to plan for your transportation. It’s also not suitable for very young children or those with specific health issues, so some travelers should consider other options.
This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking to introduce yourself to scuba diving in a safe, supervised environment. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers who want a hands-on experience without committing to a full certification or longer courses.
Key Points
- Perfect for beginners: No experience needed, with a clear 30-minute briefing before you go into the water.
- Small group setting: No more than 8 participants for personalized guidance.
- Two dives with different depths: First at -6m, then at -12m, offering variety and a sense of progression.
- All gear included: No hidden costs for equipment.
- Supervised by professional instructors: Multiple language options, including English and French.
- Flexible duration: Ranges from 2 to 7 hours depending on your schedule.
What to Expect When You Book
When you sign up for this experience, you’ll meet your instructor at the diving center, usually at the start of the day. The first part involves a 30-minute briefing where you’ll learn the basics of breathing underwater, safety procedures, and what kind of marine life you might see. This session is thorough but friendly, making sure everyone feels prepared before heading into the water.
Once you’re ready, you’ll proceed to your first 45-minute dive at a maximum depth of 6 meters. During this dive, you’ll get the chance to float weightlessly and take in the vibrant underwater scenery. The instructor will stay close at all times, ensuring safety and offering tips for enjoying the environment fully.
After a break — usually about an hour — you’ll head back in for your second dive. This one goes slightly deeper, down to 12 meters, which allows you to explore different fish and terrain. Many reviewers emphasize how well they were supervised, with Jonah noting, “The instructors were very kind and helpful,” which can make all the difference when you’re new to diving.
The entire experience is designed to be accessible, with small groups and attentive instructors making sure no one feels left behind. Damien highlights, “We were very well supervised during the dive,” and adds that the French-speaking instructors contributed to his comfort.
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The Itinerary in Detail
The tour starts with your pickup, depending on your hotel location, in a comfortable van. The journey from your accommodation to the diving center takes about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and chat with your guide.
Once at Mononaftis, the safety briefing kicks off — a crucial step. Expect this to last around 30 minutes, where you’ll be introduced to basic diving skills, equipment handling, and what to do during your dives. Having this foundational knowledge is key to feeling confident underwater.
Following the briefing, you’ll gear up with all necessary equipment, which is included. The dive team ensures everything fits comfortably, and you’ll be given the opportunity to ask questions before entering the water.
Your first dive then takes approximately 45 minutes, exploring the underwater landscape at a shallow depth perfect for beginners. The focus here is on observing marine life and getting accustomed to breathing while floating. The instructor remains close, providing guidance and encouragement.
After your first dive, you’ll enjoy a break — about an hour — to relax, hydrate, and take in the sun. Many participants use this time to chat with fellow travelers or enjoy the beach nearby.
The second dive begins around 2 p.m., with similar supervision. This time, at 12 meters, you’ll encounter a different set of sights, possibly seeing more diverse fish or unique terrain features. The second experience often leaves participants more confident and excited about their underwater skills.
The tour concludes with a van transfer back to your hotel, usually around 4 p.m., giving you enough time to unwind or explore more of Crete afterward.
What You’ll Love About This Tour
The two standout features of this experience are the quality of instruction and the variety of underwater views. The instructors are not only knowledgeable but also attentive, making sure every participant feels comfortable and safe — something that many first-timers appreciate, as Damien points out, “The instructors speak French very well, which is a big plus for feeling comfortable.”
Plus, the difference between the two dives is meaningful. The first at a shallower depth offers a gentle introduction, while the second, slightly deeper, reveals more of the marine environment, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.
Another plus is the all-inclusive gear — you don’t have to worry about bringing or renting equipment separately, which simplifies the process and better ensures safety and comfort.
Who Will Enjoy This Experience?
This tour is best suited for those over 8 years old who are curious about the underwater world but not ready for advanced training. It’s perfect for travelers who want a tangible introduction to scuba without a long-term commitment.
If you’re someone who values a small, friendly group and professional supervision, this experience hits the mark. It’s also great for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a safe, guided adventure.
However, keep in mind that if you have specific health issues like respiratory or heart problems, or if you’re pregnant, this activity isn’t recommended. Since it doesn’t include transfers, travelers comfortable with their own transportation will find it easier to participate.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Tips
- Duration: Ranges between 2 and 7 hours, so check availability for your preferred timing.
- Price: The value is quite good considering the included gear, supervision, and the experience of the instructors.
- Meeting point: Your instructor will meet you at the diving center, and you’ll be transported from there.
- Languages: The staff speaks several languages, including English and French.
- Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch.
- What to bring: Just your beachwear, and maybe some sunscreen or a hat for after the dives.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a safe, well-organized introduction to scuba diving while in Crete, this experience from Stay Wet Diving Center offers a lot of value. The small group size, professional supervision, and two different dives make it a compelling choice for first-timers. Plus, the positive reviews highlight how well the instructors manage to make beginners feel comfortable and excited about the underwater world.
While it doesn’t include hotel transfers, the overall package balances affordability with quality, especially if you’re keen to see what lies beneath the waves without diving into a full certification course.
This experience would suit travelers who want a structured, guided adventure with plenty of personal attention, and who are eager to explore Crete’s marine life in a safe environment. If you’re looking for a memorable, beginner-friendly introduction to scuba, this tour is worth considering.
Agia Pelagia: Introduction to Scuba Diving (2 Dives)
“Very nice experience, the instructors were very kind and helpfull. Would recommend!”
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is suitable for those over 8 years old. It’s designed for beginners and includes a safety briefing before entering the water.
Do I need prior scuba experience?
No, this is an introductory experience, perfect for first-timers. No prior knowledge or certification is required.
Are all diving gear included?
Yes, all necessary equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own or rent separately.
What is the maximum depth for the dives?
The first dive goes to a maximum of 6 meters, and the second at 12 meters, giving you a comfortable experience at beginner-friendly depths.
Will I be supervised during the dives?
Absolutely. You’ll be in small groups with a dedicated instructor at all times, ensuring safety, guidance, and support.
Is transportation included?
No, transfers from your hotel are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
If you’re thinking about trying scuba for the first time or just want to see a different side of Crete’s waters, this tour offers a reliable, enjoyable way to get your feet wet.
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