2 Dives Package

If you’re contemplating a visit to Halkidiki and have a penchant for exploring beneath the waves, this 2 Dives Package might just be worth considering. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and talked to travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand. It promises an intimate, guided underwater adventure in one of Greece’s most scenic regions, combining natural beauty, marine life, and personal service in a way that’s quite appealing.

What immediately catches the eye about this experience is its small group size—with a maximum of four travelers, it feels more like a personalized trip than a crowded tour. Plus, the hotel pickup from Kassandra makes logistics hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in that area. On top of that, the price point—around $94.92 per person—seems quite reasonable considering the inclusions like equipment, snacks, and professional guidance.

That said, a couple of considerations come up. Since the tour requires diving certification (C-card), it’s not suitable for complete beginners. Also, because it’s limited to experienced divers, those just starting out or looking for a casual snorkeling trip might need a different option. But if you’re comfortable with diving and want a well-organized, scenic underwater experience, this tour could be a good fit.

In summary, this experience is best suited for divers with some experience who want to explore Halkidiki’s underwater landscape in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s ideal if you value local expertise, small-group intimacy, and the chance to see diverse marine life.

Key Points

• Small group setting enhances safety, comfort, and personalized attention during your dives.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Kassandra, easing transportation worries.
• Two dives allow for exploring different underwater sites in a single day, increasing your chances to see various marine creatures.
• Suitable for experienced divers with a valid certification; equipment hire is available.
• Relaxing between dives on the beaches or bays, with snacks and bottled water provided.
• Price point offers good value considering the guided service, equipment, and the natural beauty of Halkidiki’s underwater spots.

What to Expect from the Tour

An Easy and Scenic Journey to the Water

Your day begins early with a pickup from your hotel in Kassandra, which is a real plus for travelers who prefer to skip the hassle of finding their own way. The drive itself is quite enjoyable—passing through lush pine forests and olive groves, with the vibrant green of Halkidiki’s landscape offering a preview of the natural beauty ahead. The guide, Emilios, is frequently praised for his professionalism and friendly attitude, making the whole experience feel welcoming from start to finish.

The First Dive: Loutra and Nearby Sites

Once at the dive site—most often in a bay or gulf—the warm waters invite you to gear up with the help of your guide. Since the entry is from the shore, it’s generally straightforward, especially for those used to shore diving. The first exploration is often around reefs or undersea walls, where you’ll have a chance to look for large predators like groupers or smaller, stealthy creatures like nudibranches or octopuses. The underwater topography makes for interesting visuals, with natural formations creating a captivating environment.

The Midday Break: Beachside Relaxation

After your first dive, you’ll have some downtime. The tour encourages relaxing on nearby beaches or bays, soaking in the sun, and snacking on the provided refreshments. This break is appreciated by many travelers, giving you time to chat with your guide, rest, or simply enjoy Halkidiki’s stunning coastline before heading back underwater.

The Second Dive: Different Light, New Discoveries

The second dive provides a fresh perspective of the same area or a nearby site, with different marine life opportunities. The reviews highlight how this second exploration often reveals critters you might have missed the first time—perhaps a shy octopus, a seahorse, or other small creatures that require patience and a keen eye. The guide’s attentiveness ensures you’re pointed toward the most interesting sights, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

The End of the Adventure

The tour wraps up after about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your air consumption and dive times. You’re then driven back to your hotel, with plenty of time left in your day to explore Halkidiki further or relax at your accommodation.

The Value of the Experience

Many reviews emphasize the exceptional guidance provided by Emilios, with descriptions like “patient,” “professional,” and “respectful of safety.” These qualities matter, especially in a setting where small-group dynamics can make or break the experience. Another reviewer called him “a top-notch professional who loves what he does,” which is always reassuring when you’re trusting someone with your safety underwater.

Cost-wise, at just under $95, this package offers good value. It includes all necessary equipment, bottled water, snacks, and transportation, meaning you don’t have to worry about additional expenses. For the price, you get not only the chance to explore some beautiful underwater scenery but also the benefit of a knowledgeable guide who clearly loves sharing Halkidiki’s marine secrets.

Marine Life and Underwater Environment

The waters around Halkidiki are rich with marine life, from large fish like groupers to elusive critters like octopuses and seahorses. The sites are known for reefs and undersea walls, offering a variety of visual interest. One reviewer even mentioned that Loutra is “one of the best diving sites ever,” capturing the quality of the location.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour is clearly tailored for certified divers—not beginners—so if you’re just starting out, you’ll need to look elsewhere. The minimum age is 10 years, meaning slightly younger teens with diving experience can join in. Since the group size is limited, expect a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer personalized attention and less crowded environments.

What’s Not Included

Photo souvenirs are available to purchase, but they’re not included in the package. If you’re keen on capturing your underwater moments, you might want to budget for that. The tour doesn’t specify whether equipment hire is included, but since the tanks, weights, and belts are listed, it’s safe to assume they’re provided—though you could double-check if you’re particular about your gear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for experienced divers who want to explore Halkidiki’s underwater landscapes with a guide they can trust. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with shore entries and want a relaxed yet adventurous day. If you’re traveling with someone who isn’t certified or isn’t diving, this might not be the right fit, but there are other tours in Halkidiki for snorkeling or boat trips.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who value small-group settings and personalized guidance, as opposed to large, impersonal tours. The added convenience of hotel pickup is another bonus, making it easier to incorporate into your holiday plans.

FAQs

Do I need my own diving certification?
Yes, this tour requires a valid diving certification (C-card). It’s designed for experienced divers who are comfortable in open water.

Is equipment included?
Yes, tanks, weights, and belts are provided. You can also hire equipment if needed, making it easier to focus on enjoying your dives.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is four travelers, which allows for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including travel, briefing, two dives, and downtime.

Can children participate?
The minimum age is 10, so slightly older children with diving experience may join, but it’s primarily aimed at adult or teen travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Thermal Spa Agia Paraskevi, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, small-group diving experience in Halkidiki, this 2 Dives Package offers a mix of natural beauty, marine life, and professional guidance that’s hard to beat. It’s especially suitable for those who already hold diving certification and appreciate personalized service. The inclusion of hotel pickup, snacks, and equipment makes it a convenient choice, and the reviews speak volumes about Emilios’ expertise and friendliness.

While it’s not an activity for absolute beginners or those who prefer casual snorkeling, seasoned divers will find this trip rewarding—whether it’s for the chance to see large fish or the thrill of discovering tiny critters. Halkidiki’s waters hold plenty of surprises, and with this tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide by your side to help you uncover them.

Feel free to reach out if you want more tips on Halkidiki or other water adventures around Greece. Safe diving!