Heraklion: Diving, Swimming, and Snorkeling like a Mermaid

Imagine slipping into a shimmering mermaid tail and gliding through crystal-clear waters, exploring the underwater world in a way that feels straight out of a fairy tale. That’s essentially what this Heraklion mermaid experience offers — a chance to become a mermaid (or merman) for a few hours, with professional instruction and plenty of fun along the way. Whether you’re a confident swimmer or someone looking to add a splash of fantasy to your Crete trip, this tour is designed to make that magic happen.

What really caught our eye are how approachable and well-organized the activity seems — with knowledgeable guides ensuring safety, and the chance to earn a recognition card, it’s more than just a quick float. Plus, the stunning views of Agia Pelagia Bay make for a beautiful backdrop. On the flip side, it’s not suited for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues, so keep that in mind. All in all, if you’re craving a playful, visually stunning underwater adventure, this tour is a good pick—especially for those who love a bit of fantasy mixed with real aquatic skills.

Key Points

• Suitable for swimmers with basic skills but not for non-swimmers or those with mobility challenges
• Includes professional instruction to ensure safety and help you master the mermaid swim
• Beautiful setting at Agia Pelagia Bay with clear waters perfect for snorkeling
• Small group sizes mean more personalized guidance and attention
• Cost of $79 offers a decent value for the unique experience and professional guidance
• Participants receive a recognition card after completing their mermaid training

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Mermaiding Tour in Heraklion

This experience isn’t just about donning a tail and splashing around — it’s about learning a new way to move through water that feels both fun and graceful. The activity combines a snorkeling course, a tail-wearing session, and some underwater exploration. Expect to spend around 3 hours immersed in this playful aquatic adventure, from pickup to drop-off.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point & Pickup: The tour begins at a designated meeting point at the port of “Pantanassa,” near Ammoudara in Heraklion. They send details the day before, and there’s nearby parking — plus, free transfers from Heraklion and Ammoudara, which makes logistics simple. You’ll hop into a van for about 30 minutes heading to Agia Pelagia, giving you a little introduction to the area and some time to settle in.

Class & Instruction: Once there, you’ll get a 15-minute digital snorkeling theory session in your language. This is a useful prep, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or want a quick refresher. The actual snorkeling course lasts 40 minutes and is led by a personal instructor guide. This part focuses on teaching you how to swim like a mermaid using your whole body — starting from the chest and flowing into smooth, dolphin-like movements.

Tail-Wearing & Exploration: After the instruction, you’ll don your costume mermaid tail with an integrated monofin. This tail isn’t just for fun — it helps you swim more efficiently and keeps your movements fluid. Many reviewers mention that the guides are very attentive, making sure you’re comfortable and safe while trying out tricks or swimming in formation. The sensation of moving with a tail is a highlight for most, offering a completely different experience from traditional snorkeling or swimming.

Snorkeling & Free Time: Following your mermaid lessons, you’ll head into Agia Pelagia Bay for around 45 minutes of snorkeling. Expect to see plenty of marine life, as the waters are described as crystal clear, giving you great visibility. This part is about exploring and enjoying the underwater environment at your own pace.

Break & Free Time: After snorkeling, there’s a 1-hour break at Agia Pelagia, giving you time to relax, grab a snack or drink, or just soak up the scenery. Many reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the staff are, often taking photos and videos — so bring your camera!

Drop-Off & Return: The tour concludes with a short van ride back to the port, stopping at various locations like Gouves, Heraklion, or Anissaras, depending on the day’s schedule. The entire activity spans about 3 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Experience of Becoming a Mermaid

One of the biggest draws is the chance to live out a childhood fantasy. Ally’s review captures this perfectly, calling it an “unreal experience,” and pointing out that it’s open to adults, which is refreshing. Many participants find that the guides do a great job preparing you and ensuring safety, making even first-timers feel comfortable.

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Professional Instruction & Safety

Safety is a key concern in any water activity, and this tour seems to take it seriously. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, guiding you through the basics and making sure you’re confident before diving into the water. The personal instructor guide makes a difference, especially if you’re nervous or new to snorkeling and swimming with a tail.

Stunning Underwater & Scenic Views

The crystal-clear waters of Agia Pelagia Bay are often praised in reviews. You’ll get to see marine life, and the underwater world takes on a whole new charm when swimming as a mermaid. Plus, the scenery around the bay provides a beautiful backdrop for photos — especially with the added touch of your tail.

The Photos & Recognition Card

Participants rave about the amazing photos and videos the staff take during the activity, which you can purchase afterward. The SSI Try mermaid recognition card is a fun keepsake that marks your achievement, adding a sense of accomplishment to the experience.

Practicalities & Considerations

While this tour offers a lot of fun, there are some points worth noting. First, good swimming skills are required — you should feel comfortable swimming in open water. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, and the activity explicitly excludes children under 12.

The cost of $79 is reasonable, considering it includes equipment, instruction, and the opportunity to wear a professional mermaid tail, which is a special touch. Keep in mind that photos and videos aren’t included, so if you want to capture the magic, be prepared to purchase them separately.

The timing is flexible but involves a notable pickup window (8:30-9:00 AM) and return (around 2:30-3:30 PM). This makes it easier to fit into a busy Crete itinerary, especially since they handle the logistics.

Who Should Do This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water activities and fairy-tale fun. It’s a great choice for those who want to learn a new skill while having a memorable experience in Crete’s beautiful waters. Not suitable for non-swimmers or travelers with mobility challenges, but anyone comfortable in the water can enjoy the thrill of swimming like a mermaid with professional guidance.

If you’re a family with older children who meet the age and swimming requirements, it could be a fun shared activity. But overall, this is best suited for adults and teens confident in the water.

The Sum Up

The Heraklion mermaid experience offers a playful, visually stunning way to explore Crete’s waters. With expert guidance, gorgeous scenery, and the chance to grow your aquatic skills, it’s an activity that combines fantasy with practicality. The inclusion of a recognition card and professional photos makes it feel like a true achievement, not just a quick float.

While it’s not a beginner activity for absolute newbies or those with health issues, for swimmers looking to add a bit of magic to their trip, this experience delivers. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a fun, memorable way to see Crete from a different perspective — and perhaps relive a childhood dream in the process.

If you’re after a unique, engaging, and beautifully crafted water activity, this mermaid tour hits the right notes — especially if you love a good story and some stunning underwater views.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Not for children under 12 or non-swimmers. It’s designed for confident swimmers who are comfortable in open water.

Do I need prior swimming experience?
Yes, good swimming skills are required to participate safely and enjoy the experience fully.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes mermaid equipment (tail & monofin), snorkeling gear, a 40-minute snorkeling course, a personal instructor, a 15-minute digital theory session, water, and a recognition card.

Are photos and videos included?
No, these are extra and can be purchased after the activity.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including pickup, instruction, snorkeling, free time, and return.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility with your travel plans.

Where is the meeting point?
At the port of “Pantanassa” near Ammoudara, Heraklion. Details are provided a day before your tour.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops. Avoid bringing alcohol or drugs as they are not allowed.

Is it safe?
Yes, with professional guides ensuring safety and proper instruction.

What if I change my mind?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a risk-free booking.

This review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Heraklion mermaid experience. If you’re ready to add a splash of fantasy to your Crete trip, it’s a fun, safe, and memorable choice that many travelers have loved.

You can check availability for your dates here: