Heraklion: Basic Diver for Beginners

Thinking about trying scuba diving for the first time? Or maybe you’ve played around with the idea but aren’t sure if it’s for you? This Basic Diver for Beginners experience in Heraklion, Crete, might just be the perfect fit. It’s designed to give you a taste of what it feels like to breathe underwater, with safety and fun front and center.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines professional instruction with manageable, small-group experiences—so you’re not just a face in the crowd. Plus, the setting in Crete offers easy access to calm, shallow waters that make your first underwater adventure feel safe and memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that this activity isn’t suitable for everyone—if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or certain health concerns, it’s best to pass. But if you’re generally healthy, love trying new things, and enjoy a bit of adventure in beautiful surroundings, this could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers who want a manageable, guided experience rather than a full certification course.

Key Points

• Introductory Experience: Perfect for first-timers or those who want a gentle introduction to scuba diving.
• Small Group Format: Limited to just 6 divers per course, ensuring personalized attention.
• Inclusive Equipment: Full gear provided, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks.
• Professional Guidance: Qualified instructors who speak multiple languages, including English, French, Greek, Polish, and German.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from 3 to 6 hours, with morning and early afternoon sessions.
• Transport Included: Free pickup and drop-off within certain areas, making the logistics easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded experience packed into just a few hours. The process begins with a 30-minute briefing where your instructor explains the basic principles of diving and how to use the equipment. This is a crucial step—especially if it’s your first time—helping you feel confident before getting into the water.

After the briefing, you’ll move on to a confined water practice session in either the pool or shallow waters right in front of the dive center. This is where you get to try out your gear, practice breathing with your mask on, and get comfortable with the basic skills needed for open-water diving. It’s a relaxed environment, and the instructor will be there to guide you every step of the way.

Finally, you’ll head into the open water for a 45-minute dive at a maximum depth of 10 meters. This part is the real highlight—being able to float around, see marine life, and breathe underwater for the first time. The waters here are typically calm, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour starts with pickup from a choice of 13 locations around Heraklion, Kokkini Hani, Kato Gouves, and other nearby spots—no need to worry about complicated logistics. The transfer takes about an hour, giving you some time to relax before the activity begins.

Once at the dive center, the instruction begins. After your initial briefing, you’ll be guided to the shallow waters in front of the center. Here, you get to try out your gear and get used to breathing underwater, which many find unforgettable. The small group setting means you’ll get plenty of attention, and your instructor can focus on your comfort and skills.

The open water portion lasts approximately 45 minutes, during which you’ll explore the underwater environment at a max depth of 10 meters. Many reviews highlight how the instructor makes everyone feel safe and confident, even if it’s their very first time. Afterward, you’ll head back to the shore, feeling accomplished and eager to share your photos and stories.

The return trips are straightforward, with a scheduled drop-off at the original pickup points, making this a smooth experience from start to finish.

The Equipment and Safety Measures

All necessary gear—mask, snorkel, fins, BCD, regulator, and tanks—is included, along with wetsuits (both shorty and 5mm options). This ensures you’re comfortable in the water regardless of the weather. The fact that full scuba equipment rental is included is a big plus, especially considering how expensive gear can be if rented separately.

Safety is clearly a priority here. They limit group sizes to 6 divers per course and 4 students per instructor, which means personalized supervision and support. The program also includes DAN diving insurance, providing added peace of mind.

A couple of points worth noting—photos and videos aren’t included, so if you want mementos, you’ll need to bring your own camera or smartphone (charged and waterproof cases are recommended).

The Value of Your Experience

Compared to full certification courses, this is a short and sweet introduction that offers genuine fun without the long-term commitment. The price might seem a little high at first glance, but considering the equipment, instruction, insurance, and small group size, it’s actually fair value for a memorable experience.

One reviewer praised the service, mentioning “explanations from instructor Stan” and how it was a “wonderful, magical experience.” Another highlighted the super nice instructor and beautiful tour, emphasizing how engaging and interesting the experience was overall.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re curious about scuba diving but want to start slow. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer small groups and personalized guidance. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who wants to share the adventure, as the small group format encourages interaction and support.

It’s not suited for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with certain health or mobility issues, but otherwise, it’s a safe and accessible way to try diving. The clear and calm waters in Crete make it a perfect spot for first-timers, especially those who want a gentle but memorable underwater experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, beginner-friendly scuba experience in Crete, this tour ticks many boxes. The combination of small group size, professional instruction, and a beautiful setting makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to see what’s beneath the sea without committing to a full certification.

The fact that it’s designed for first-timers means you won’t feel overwhelmed. Instead, you’ll get a taste of the underwater world with plenty of support along the way. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner, this experience offers a chance to create a special memory under the water.

For travelers who value safety, professionalism, and a relaxed pace, this is a solid option. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable, engaging, and truly memorable introduction to scuba diving in Crete.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, this experience is specifically designed for people new to scuba diving, with a gentle introduction and plenty of guidance.

How long does the entire tour last?
The activity takes between 3 to 6 hours, depending on the schedule. The main dive itself lasts about 45 minutes, with additional time for instruction and transfers.

Are equipment and wetsuits included?
Absolutely. The package includes full scuba gear—mask, snorkel, fins, BCD, regulator, tanks—and wetsuits (shorty and 5mm).

Can I choose the time for my session?
Yes, the tours are offered twice daily at 09.30 and 12.45, but checking availability is recommended to fit your schedule.

What languages are instructors available in?
Instructors speak English, French, Greek, Polish, and German to accommodate a diverse group of travelers.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from 13 designated locations around Heraklion and nearby areas at scheduled times.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, and a charged smartphone if you want photos. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years old due to safety considerations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-guided introduction to the underwater world in Crete, this Basic Diver for Beginners tour offers a genuine glimpse into the joys of scuba, all wrapped up in a safe, friendly environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: