Heraklion, on the northern coast of Crete, is a fantastic place to explore underwater life and learn new skills. Whether you’re new to scuba or eager to try something playful like swimming as a mermaid, Heraklion offers options that suit all levels and interests. We particularly like the Try Scuba Diving for Beginners tour for its safety, small group setting, and excellent reviews, making it a great way for first-timers to experience the sea. For a more whimsical adventure, the Diving, Swimming, and Snorkeling like a Mermaid tour offers a fun twist that combines snorkeling and swimming with a mermaid tail. And if you’re interested in free diving, Ligaria Beach’s Discover Free Diving session provides a focused introduction to breath-hold techniques in a relaxed setting.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best Heraklion scuba experiences—each with its own unique appeal—so you can find the perfect fit for your interests and skill level.
1. Heraklion: Try Scuba Diving For Beginners (1 dive)
At number one, this Try Scuba Diving experience is perfect for those who want a safe, guided introduction to underwater exploration. It’s rated 5/5 with 27 reviews and costs $108 per person. The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours and includes a dive at a scenic site where you can see unique aquatic life in crystal-clear waters. The small group setting allows for personalized attention, and the staff prioritizes safety and fun for beginners.
What makes this tour stand out is its excellent instructor-to-participant ratio, with guides like Loannis and Kris taking the time to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Reviewers mention how patient and encouraging the team was, which is key when trying scuba for the first time. The experience includes a safety briefing, shallow water practice, and a dive in a calm bay teeming with marine life. It’s ideal for families or friends celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: If you’re new to scuba and want a memorable, well-supported introduction, this tour provides the perfect balance of safety, scenery, and personal attention at a reasonable price.
2. Heraklion: Diving, Swimming, and Snorkeling like a Mermaid
Number two on our list is a playful, family-friendly experience that costs $79 and lasts about 3 hours. This activity allows you to become a mermaid, wearing a costume tail with an integrated monofin, and learn to swim like one. It’s a creative way to enjoy the water, especially if you’re comfortable swimming but want to add a fantastical element.
The tour begins with a short drive to Agia Pelagia, where participants learn basic swimming and breathing techniques before donning their mermaid tails. The instructors are praised for their friendly approach and safety focus. Once suited up, you’ll snorkel in clear waters and have the chance to explore the sea while capturing photos and videos—an option worth considering if you love memories you can keep.
Reviewers mention how magical the experience feels and appreciate how inclusive and supportive the staff are. This tour appeals most to those who want a fun, non-intimidating introduction to water activities, with a touch of fantasy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or anyone wanting a lighthearted, memorable sea experience that combines swimming, snorkeling, and a bit of childlike wonder.
3. Ligaria Beach: Discover Free Diving (Apnea)
Finally, if you’re looking to push your limits and explore breath-hold diving, this Discover Free Diving session costs $63 and lasts 1.5 hours. It focuses on teaching basic freediving principles and breath-hold techniques in a controlled environment, either in a pool or a shallow, calm water site.
This experience is ideal for those curious about exploring the underwater world without the need for tanks or extensive training. The staff guides you through breathing exercises, equalization techniques, and safety protocols, helping you find your comfort zone and discover how deep you can go without air. The tour makes stops at various locations and provides an opportunity to experience the big blue in a relaxed manner.
Review comments highlight the friendly staff and the chance to find your own limits while enjoying the tranquility of the sea. It’s suited for active travelers who want a different kind of marine experience, combining physical and mental challenge.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a short but focused introduction to freediving, this tour offers a safe, supportive environment to discover what you’re capable of.
How to Choose the Best Scuba Experience in Heraklion
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and comfort level. For a beginner-friendly, structured introduction to scuba, our top pick is the Heraklion: Try Scuba Diving tour. It’s ideal if safety and small group attention matter most.
If you’re feeling playful and want to combine water fun with fantasy, the Mermaid Swimming Experience offers a memorable twist with great reviews and a relaxed pace. For those seeking a challenge or a new skill, the Free Diving Discovery lets you explore breath-hold diving in a safe setting, perfect for active adventurers.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and what excites you most—whether it’s exploring marine life, learning a new skill, or simply having fun with a fantasy element. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Heraklion offers a variety of scuba and water-related experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. The beginner scuba tour is ideal if you want a safe, guided introduction with great reviews. For a more playful approach, the mermaid swimming session turns water fun into a fairy tale. And if you’re craving a physical and mental challenge, free diving introduces you to breath-hold exploration in a supportive setting.
For a balanced holiday, mixing a beginner course with some leisure snorkeling or mermaid fun could provide the perfect experience. Whichever you choose, booking early will help ensure you make the most of your time in Crete. Dive into the sea and enjoy all that Heraklion has to offer!
