Amorgos: Basic Diver Course at Amorgos Diving Center — A Friendly Introduction to Scuba
If you’re dreaming of dipping your toes into the underwater world but aren’t quite ready for a full certification, the Basic Diver Course at Amorgos Diving Center might be just what you’re looking for. This 2-day experience offers a manageable way to learn the essentials of diving, and it’s a great option if you’re visiting the South Aegean and want a hands-on introduction without a huge time or financial commitment.
What caught our attention? First, the fact that you get professional supervision throughout and the chance to dive up to 12 meters — quite an achievement for a beginner! Second, the fact that the academic and practical sessions can be credited towards more advanced certifications like SSI Scuba Diver makes this more than just a one-time adventure.
However, a potential consideration is that the course is quite condensed — just two days — which might feel a bit rushed if you’re someone who prefers to take things slow and absorb every detail. Still, if you’re eager to get a quick start in diving and enjoy Greece’s beautiful waters, this course might fit your plans perfectly.
This experience is well-suited for curious travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to diving, as well as those thinking about future certifications. It’s especially friendly for first-timers who enjoy small groups and personalized attention.
Key Points
- Short and manageable: The course is completed over 2 days, making it convenient for travelers on a tight schedule.
- Learn necessary skills: Includes one academic session, one pool/confined water session, and one open water dive.
- Supervised diving: You get to dive up to 12 meters with direct supervision from a professional.
- Educational credit: The sessions can be credited toward SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certifications.
- All equipment included: No need to worry about bringing gear; full rental equipment is provided.
- Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring more personal guidance.
What You Can Expect from the Course
The course kicks off with an academic session, which is designed to introduce you to the basics of diving — safety protocols, equipment, and underwater communication. This part is essential; it sets the foundation for your confidence and safety underwater.
Next, you’ll move into a pool or confined water session. Here, you’ll practice fundamental skills like mask clearing, regulator retrieval, and buoyancy control. You’ll be in shallow water—max 5 meters deep—giving you a controlled environment to get comfortable.
The highlight is the open water session, conducted from a boat, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a real diving environment, reaching depths of up to 12 meters. This part offers a glimpse of Greece’s underwater scenery, which many find exhilarating and surprisingly accessible for beginners.
Throughout the course, you’ll be under the watchful eye of an SSI professional, emphasizing safety and personalized instruction. The full rental gear ensures you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment, adding to the convenience.
The Value of the Course in Context
At $219 per person, this course offers a reasonable price considering the inclusion of academic lessons, practical training, and professional supervision. When you think about it, getting your first taste of diving in such a beautiful setting, with all equipment included, makes it a pretty good deal.
The fact that the sessions can be credited toward future certifications adds extra value. If you decide to continue diving, this small investment now can pave the way for more advanced courses without having to start from scratch.
The small group setting (limited to ten) ensures that everyone gets personalized attention, which is especially helpful for nervous beginners or those who learn best with close guidance.
The Experience at Amorgos Diving Center
Located at Aegiali Beach, the diving center has a friendly, welcoming vibe. The staff speaks English, French, and Greek, making it accessible for international travelers. The location offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for easing into your diving adventure.
Participants generally find the process straightforward. One review notes that the instructor was “patient and clear,” which is crucial when you’re trying to understand new skills. Another mentioned how “the boat trip to the open water was smooth,” adding to the overall positive experience.
Since the course is designed to be quick but comprehensive, it’s ideal for travelers who want to combine a cultural trip with a new activity without getting bogged down in lengthy training. The fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund offers some flexibility.
What to Bring and What Not to Bring
To make sure you’re prepared, pack essentials like hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Remember, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed — this is for your safety and the safety of others.
The course is not suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or anyone with heart problems, which is important to note if you’re traveling with family or friends with special considerations.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Overall Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Short, intensive course perfect for beginners
– All equipment included, no extra gear needed
– Personal supervision and small groups
– The potential to credit the sessions towards certification
– Beautiful location with stunning views
Cons:
– The two-day format might be rushed for some
– Not suitable for children under 9 or people with health issues
– The maximum depth of 12 meters means limited exploration scope
Who Is This Course Best For?
If you’re a traveler eager to try scuba diving for the first time and want a safe, guided experience, this course is a solid pick. It’s also suitable for those planning to pursue certification later, as the sessions count toward future programs. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small groups and personalized instruction in a relaxed, scenic environment.
For seasoned divers or those wanting a deep exploration, this course won’t replace more extensive training. But for first-timers or travelers looking for a memorable, practical introduction, it hits the mark.
Amorgos: Basic Diver Course at Amorgos Diving Center
FAQs
Is this course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed specifically for those new to diving, with all sessions catering to first-timers.
How deep will I dive?
You’ll be diving up to 12 meters (about 40 feet), which is perfect for beginners and to get a real sense of being underwater.
Are the sessions creditable toward certification?
Yes, the academic and in-water sessions can be credited toward SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certifications.
What equipment is included?
Full rental equipment is provided, including all necessary gear for the academic, confined, and open water sessions.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Avoid smoking and alcohol before the course.
Is the course suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 9 years old.
Is this course suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart problems.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring personal guidance.
Where is the meeting point?
The course starts at Amorgos Diving Center, located at Aegiali Beach.
This Basic Diver Course at Amorgos Diving Center offers an inviting, practical introduction to scuba diving amid Greece’s beautiful waters. It balances safety, instruction, and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile option for those curious about diving but not yet ready for full certification. Whether you’re visiting Amorgos for a few days or just want to add a memorable activity to your trip, this experience provides a solid foundation to start your underwater journey.
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