Plakias: Try Scuba Diving first time – Private, from 8 yrs.

If you’re thinking about taking your first steps into the underwater world, the Plakias: Try Scuba Diving tour offers a safe, well-organized, and highly enjoyable introduction, especially if you’re new to diving. This private experience in Crete is tailored for beginners as young as 8, making it a fantastic option for families, solo travelers, or friends looking for an adventurous day out.

What we love about this experience is the professionalism of the instructors and the crystal-clear water that Crete is known for, which really sets the stage for a memorable first swim beneath the waves. Plus, the small group size — just two divers per instructor — ensures personal attention that can boost your confidence and make the whole process feel relaxed and safe.

One aspect to consider is that the tour lasts about four hours, which is quite packed but perfect for a half-day adventure. If you’re someone who prefers longer, more leisurely activities, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a great choice if you want a taste of underwater exploration without a big time commitment.

This tour suits those curious about diving but not ready commit to a full certification. It’s especially good for families with kids 8 and older, first-timers who want a safe and friendly environment, or anyone who simply wants to see what the fuss is all about in a stunning location.

Key Points

• Inclusive for Beginners: Designed for first-timers, with detailed guidance.
• Professional Instructors: Passionate, multilingual, and attentive.
• Beautiful Location: Crystal-clear water with excellent visibility.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service.
• Flexible Options: After the initial experience, you can opt for additional dives or courses.
• Great Value: At around $172, it offers a solid introduction with all equipment included.

What to Expect from the Experience

The Booking and Meeting Details

The tour is booked about three weeks in advance on average, which is wise since it tends to fill up quickly (recommended 21 days before). You’ll meet at the Dive2gether Crete center in Plakias, a well-rated PADI diving school. They offer a mobile ticket for convenience, and the location is accessible near public transportation.

The Duration and Structure

The experience lasts roughly 4 hours, giving you enough time for a thorough introduction, equipment fitting, briefing, and your underwater adventure. It begins with a friendly briefing where your instructor explains the basics, safety protocols, and what you can expect underwater.

The Equipment and Safety

The instructors pride themselves on using excellent equipment and maintaining high safety standards—something that reviewers consistently notice and appreciate. This focus on safety and comfort makes the experience less nerve-wracking for first-timers.

The Underwater Experience

After getting comfortable with the gear, you’ll enter the water, usually in shallow areas, where you’ll learn some basic skills. From there, guided by your instructor, you’ll experience the sensation of weightlessness, see colorful marine life, and enjoy the sunlight filtering through the water. Many reviewers mention the exceptional clarity of the water, which enhances the whole experience.

The Personal Attention and Atmosphere

A key factor that many reviewers highlight is the small group size—only two divers per instructor. This allows your guide to give personalized support, answer your questions, and help ease any nerves. One reviewer shared how instructor Kirsten was “amazing and very patient,” which is a common compliment.

The Photos and Additional Options

While photos are not included in the base price, you can purchase all pictures taken during the day for 19 euros. Many visitors appreciate this add-on, as it captures the moment when you’re floating with fish or swimming near the reef.

Transport and Convenience

Transport from the diving school to the dive site is provided in vans with seatbelts, making the transfer smooth and hassle-free. The tour ends back at the starting point, so no extra logistics are needed.

The Flexibility for Further Diving

After the initial introductory dive, if you’re interested, you can choose to continue with additional dives or even start a formal diving course for a fee. This flexibility makes the experience ideal for those who might develop a new hobby.

The Real Experiences of Past Participants

The reviews paint a vivid picture of consistent professionalism and enjoyment. People frequently mention how helpful and friendly the staff are, often speaking multiple languages to cater to international visitors. One reviewer said, “they have good equipment and very professional instructors,” which is reassuring for newbies.

Many comments focus on the stunning scenery and abundance of fish, with some even encountering sea turtles—a rare treat. One reviewer, describing their experience, noted how their instructor was “very thorough and kind,” and another shared how they saw lots of different animals along the way.

Reviewers also commend the patient and empathetic approach of instructors like Kilian, Shania, Evi, and Kirsten. Even nervous divers or those worried about the exercises found themselves at ease, thanks to the instructors’ attentive guidance. Hearing that “even the most hesitant learn to dive” is a real testament to the supportive environment here.

The Value for Money

At $171.95, the price covers all equipment, transportation, and expert guidance. Considering it’s a private, small-group experience tailored for beginners, most find it reasonably priced—especially given the high standard of instruction and the opportunity to see underwater life in a safe setting.

The Location and Water Conditions

Plakias is known for its crystal-clear waters and good visibility, which many reviews attribute to the summer winds blowing surface waves away, resulting in exceptionally clear water. This clarity makes it easier for beginners to see and enjoy the marine environment, which can otherwise be daunting for first-timers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who want to try scuba diving in a friendly setting without prior experience. It’s perfect for families with kids 8 and older, especially those wanting a safe introduction led by professional instructors. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who’s interested but hesitant, this private tour ensures personalized attention.

It also works well if you’re looking for a half-day activity that’s manageable within a broader Crete itinerary—no long commitments, just a memorable taste of the underwater world.

Final Thoughts

The Plakias: Try Scuba Diving tour really shines for its warm, professional guidance and the chance to see Crete’s underwater beauty in a safe, supportive environment. The small group size and excellent equipment guarantee a comfortable and individualized experience, making it ideal for first-timers of all ages.

The crystal-clear water and friendly atmosphere create a perfect setting for a memorable adventure, especially if you’re eager to see what the fuss about scuba is all about without committing to a full certification. The value for the quality and safety offered here is noteworthy, and the happy reviews speak volumes about the consistency of this experience.

If you’re looking for a friendly, well-organized introduction to scuba diving and want to explore the underwater world of Crete, this tour is a solid pick. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a chance to create a special memory and perhaps even catch the diving bug for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is open to those aged 8 years and older, making it a good choice for families with kids interested in trying scuba.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, which is enough time for briefing, training, and your underwater adventure.

Are all equipment and transportation included?
Yes, your fee covers all scuba gear and transport from the dive center to the dive site.

Can I purchase photos of my dive?
Absolutely. All photos taken during the day can be bought for 19 euros, giving you a great memory of your first underwater moments.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs approximately $172 per person, which many find reasonable given the quality of instruction and the personalized experience.

What if I want to do more after this?
You can opt to continue with additional dives or even begin a diving course at an extra cost, giving you the chance to deepen your skills.

How good is the water visibility?
Thanks to the summer winds, the waters in Plakias are often crystal-clear, providing excellent visibility for beginners to enjoy the surroundings.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a tailored experience with your instructor.

What should I bring or wear?
Just bring your sense of adventure, wear a swimsuit, and don’t forget sunscreen and a towel. The equipment and water are provided.

If you’re contemplating a first step into the underwater world, this Plakias experience is a friendly, well-rated, and professionally guided choice. It’s about making safety and enjoyment go hand-in-hand, with the added bonus of some truly spectacular scenery.