If you’re a certified diver heading to Crete, this tour from Omega Divers promises a chance to explore some of the island’s top underwater sites. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we gather, it’s a solid choice for those who want professional guidance and access to Crete’s most interesting dive spots.
What really catches the eye are the small group sizes and full equipment rental included — those make for a more personalized and hassle-free experience. Plus, visiting the first licensed underwater park in Greece is a bit of a bonus, offering a unique dive among artificial reefs and wrecks. One possible consideration? The tour duration is 4.5 hours, so it’s a relatively short window, but that’s typical for half-day trips. This experience is best suited for serious divers who appreciate well-organized tours, beautiful scenery, and historic wrecks.
Whether you’re into exploring wrecks, marveling at marine flora and fauna, or simply seeking clear waters with excellent visibility, this trip might fit the bill. If you’re coming with friends or a dive buddy, the limited group size (max nine people) is an advantage for more focused attention. But if you’re after a very relaxed, leisurely day, keep in mind this is more about quality dives than lounging on the boat.
Key Points
- Exclusive Small Groups: Max 9 participants for a personalized experience.
- Comprehensive Equipment: Full rental gear included, so no worries about packing your own.
- Diverse Dive Sites: Wrecks, reefs, and caves, including the famous Elephant Cave.
- History & Natural Beauty: Dive into wrecks dating back over a century and explore artificial reefs teeming with marine life.
- Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off around Chania make life easier.
- Weather Dependent: The exact locations depend on conditions, which keeps things flexible but sometimes unpredictable.
What to Expect from Your Certified Diver Trip in Chania
This tour spans 4.5 hours, usually starting with a pickup from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. Omega Divers, a 5-star PADI IDC center with 15 years of experience, ensures all safety standards are adhered to, making this a reassuring choice if you’re an experienced diver. They emphasize safety, professionalism, and tailored experiences based on your certification level.
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The Dive Sites
The Elephant Cave is a standout — a must-see in Crete. It features two massive chambers with depths of only 2 and 1 meter, making it accessible even for those who prefer shallow dives while still offering the thrill of exploring ancient fossils of elephants and deer. The water is crystal-clear, with over 20 meters of visibility, which makes the experience even more breathtaking.
Then there’s the Minnewaska wreck, a historic ship sunk in 1916 after hitting a mine. It’s about 20 meters deep and offers a glimpse into early 20th-century maritime history. The wreck’s remains, including a 50-meter-long section, are a fascinating dive site. It’s a perfect stop for history buffs and those who enjoy exploring wrecks with a story to tell.
The Wall Dive is another highlight, featuring a natural cliff submerged underwater that shelters an abundant marine ecosystem. Expect to see schools of fish, groupers, and other marine organisms that instructors will happily point out. It’s a great choice if you’re eager to see Crete’s vibrant underwater life in a relatively shallow, protected environment.
Finally, the Apokoronas Diving Park is a recent addition, with 44 artificial reefs and the wreck of the R/K Nest. The underwater landscape here is created specifically to support marine life, providing a lively hub of activity. Using sea scooters, you’ll cover a lot of ground during these shore dives, making it ideal for divers who love a bit of speed and exploration.
The Experience: What It’s Like
When you book with Omega Divers, you can expect a professional team that takes safety seriously and values your diving experience. The boat transportation is smooth, and the inclusion of a local snack and bottled water during breaks helps keep energy levels up. Plus, the full rental gear means you won’t need to worry about lugging your own equipment through airports or on boats.
Many reviewers mention the stunning views and the variety of sites as major pluses. Divers have described the visibility as excellent, with clear waters revealing a vibrant underwater universe. The wreck of Minnewaska, in particular, stands out as a historical and visual highlight, with many saying it’s a must-see when in Crete.
The small group size is appreciated in reviews, with some noting that it allows for more personalized guidance from professional dive masters. The included equipment and the well-organized logistics help make the experience seamless, especially if you’re used to diving regularly.
The Downsides
One thing to keep in mind is that the weather can influence which sites you visit, so the exact dives might vary from day to day. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for non-certified divers or those without experience, so if you’re new to diving, this isn’t for you. The 4.5-hour duration, while enough for two quality dives, isn’t a full-day adventure, so if you want more extensive underwater time, you might need additional options.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing and Value
Considering that full rental equipment, boat transfers, a professional guide, insurance, and local snacks are included, this tour offers good value for seasoned divers. Private-guided experiences at similar sites can be significantly more expensive, so for certified divers looking to explore Crete’s underwater treasures without fuss, this is a convenient choice.
Who Will Love This?
This trip is perfect for certified divers who value safety, professionalism, and access to some of Crete’s most iconic underwater sites. It suits those who appreciate small groups, personalized attention, and a mix of wrecks, reefs, and caves. If you’re a history lover, the wrecks provide a fascinating glimpse into maritime past, while marine life enthusiasts will enjoy the artificial reefs and natural wall dives.
This isn’t a tour for beginners or non-certified divers, nor is it suited for those seeking a relaxed, leisurely boat cruise with lots of lounging — it’s more about exploration and discovery at a comfortable, yet adventurous pace.
FAQs
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, full rental gear (including wetsuit, fins, mask, tank, and weights) is included, so just bring your swimsuit and towel.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 9 participants, which helps ensure personalized guidance and safety.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your travel plans shift.
Is this suitable for non-native English speakers?
Yes, the instructors speak multiple languages including French, German, Greek, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Russian.
What are the main highlights of the dives?
You’ll explore the Elephant Cave, the historic Minnewaska wreck, the natural shelter of the Wall Dive, and the artificial reefs at Apokoronas Diving Park, each offering something unique.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off around Chania and nearby areas are included, simplifying logistics.
Final Thoughts
For certified divers eager to experience Crete’s underwater world, this tour by Omega Divers offers a well-organized, professional approach to exploring some of the most interesting sites around Chania. The combination of wrecks, caves, reefs, and marine life, all within a manageable 4.5-hour window, makes it a practical choice for those who want quality and safety in their diving adventure.
The emphasis on small groups and full gear rental means you’ll get personalized attention in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re fascinated by history, love vibrant marine ecosystems, or just want to enjoy stunning water clarity, this trip covers the essentials without feeling rushed or overcrowded.
Overall, if you’re an experienced diver looking for a dependable, well-reviewed option in Crete, this experience from Omega Divers might just be what you need for your underwater explorations.
Chania: Diving Trips for Certified Divers
Additional Tips
- Check the weather forecast before your trip, as it can influence the diving schedule.
- Arrive a bit early on the day to get comfortable with the equipment and meet your guides.
- Remember to bring your certification card and complete any required health questionnaires beforehand.
- If you’re staying outside the pickup zones, plan to meet at Almyrida Beach, 27 km east of Chania.
Happy diving — Crete’s underwater world is impressive, and with a good guide, it’s an adventure you won’t forget!
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