Greece, a land steeped in ancient history and bathed in the azure embrace of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, offers a captivating allure for divers from around the globe. For Czech divers accustomed to the pristine lakes and rivers of Central Europe, the Greek underwater world presents an exciting and vibrant new frontier. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through a spectacular seven-stop diving expedition across Greece, offering insights into preparation, detailed descriptions of each site, essential safety tips, and a compelling call to action for your land-based adventures.
Embarking on a diving holiday in Greece requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First, ensure your diving certification is current and recognised internationally. PADI and SSI are widely accepted. It is also advisable to bring your certification card with you. Consider your experience level when planning your dives; while many sites are suitable for beginners, some offer more challenging conditions for advanced divers.
Second, your personal diving equipment should be in good condition. While most dive centres in Greece offer rental equipment, having your own mask, fins, and wetsuit ensures comfort and familiarity. A 3mm or 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient for the Greek waters from late spring to early autumn, with water temperatures ranging from 20°C to 27°C. However, for earlier or later in the season, a thicker suit might be more comfortable. Do not forget to pack essential items such as a logbook, defogger, and any personal dive computers or cameras you wish to use.
Third, getting travel insurance is a non-negotiable. Ensure your policy specifically covers diving activities and any potential medical emergencies. Familiarise yourself with the local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest decompression chamber, though hopefully, you will not need them.
Fourth, secure your travel documents. Czech citizens will require a valid passport or national ID card for entry into Greece, as both countries are part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. While a visa is not necessary, always check the latest travel advisories before your trip.
Finally, book your flights, accommodations, and dive excursions in advance. This is important, especially if you are travelling during peak season (July and August). It will help you secure your preferred choices and avoid disappointment.
Greece boasts an extraordinary array of dive sites, from ancient shipwrecks to vibrant reefs and dramatic cave systems. Here are seven exceptional locations that promise an unforgettable underwater journey for Czech divers.
Chios, an island in the North Aegean, offers a unique blend of history and marine life. While the island is renowned for its mastic trees and medieval villages, its surrounding waters hold a captivating secret: the sunken city near Oinousses. This site, believed to be an ancient settlement or port, provides an archaeological dive experience unlike any other. Divers can explore submerged foundations, pottery shards, and remnants of what was once a thriving community, all while surrounded by schools of colourful fish. The relatively shallow depths here make it accessible for divers of various experience levels.
Beyond diving, Chios offers a rich cultural tapestry. Explore the Mastic Villages, particularly Pyrgi, with its unique "sgraffito" decorated houses. Visit Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site monastery, or simply relax on one of the island's many beautiful beaches. Hiking trails crisscross the island, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean.
Corfu, a gem of the Ionian Sea, offers a diverse array of dive sites catering to all levels. Its northern waters are particularly rich in vibrant reefs and intriguing cave systems. The Monastery Wall dive offers a dramatic drop-off teeming with marine life, while the Colovri wreck, a small fishing boat, provides an interesting exploration for beginners. The various underwater caves and swim-throughs are home to octopuses, moray eels, and colourful sponges. The visibility in Corfu's waters is generally excellent, enhancing the diving experience.
Corfu's allure extends far beyond its underwater world. Explore Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Venetian architecture and impressive fortresses. Visit the Achilleion Palace, once the summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, or simply relax on the island's beautiful beaches. Hiking and watersports are also popular activities.
Crete, Greece's largest island, is a diver's haven with a diverse range of underwater landscapes and historical sites. The island's strategic location has led to numerous shipwrecks, offering fascinating exploration opportunities. The Messerschmitt Bf 109 wreck, a World War II fighter plane, is a poignant reminder of the island's past. Other sites include the elephant cave, a unique underwater cave with stalactites and stalagmites, and various ancient harbour remains. The marine life here is abundant, with barracuda, groupers, and a variety of smaller reef fish.
Beyond diving, Crete offers an unparalleled historical and cultural experience. Explore the ancient Minoan palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, hike the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, or simply unwind on one of the island's many pristine beaches. The culinary scene on Crete is also exceptional, with fresh local ingredients taking centre stage.
Mykonos, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere, also offers excellent diving opportunities. The most famous dive site is undoubtedly the wreck of the Anna II, a cargo ship that sank in 1995. This well-preserved wreck lies at depths accessible to recreational divers, offering a captivating exploration of its cargo holds, engine room, and superstructure. The wreck has become an artificial reef, teeming with marine life, including schools of damselfish, barracuda, and occasionally larger pelagic species.
While not diving, Mykonos offers endless entertainment. Stroll through the charming alleys of Mykonos Town, visit the iconic windmills, or soak up the sun at one of the island's many world-famous beaches. Explore the archaeological wonders of the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Santorini, an iconic Cycladic island forged by volcanic activity, offers dramatic landscapes both above and below the water. The caldera's steep underwater cliffs plummet into the depths, revealing a unique volcanic ecosystem. Divers can explore fascinating lava formations, underwater caves, and the remains of various shipwrecks, including the easily accessible Santa Maria wreck. The visibility here is often exceptional, allowing for stunning photographic opportunities. The hydrothermal vents also create intriguing temperature variations and support unique marine life.
Above the surface, Santorini's charm is undeniable. Witness the legendary sunset in Oia, explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the "Minoan Pompeii", or indulge in the island's renowned wines and culinary delights. Boat trips around the caldera are also highly recommended.
Skopelos, a picturesque island in the Sporades, gained international fame as the setting for the film "Mamma Mia!" However, beneath its charming surface lies an amazing diving site—the shipwreck of the Christoforos. This cargo ship, which sank in the 1980s, is now an artificial reef, hosting a vibrant ecosystem. Divers can explore its various sections, encountering schools of fish, barracuda, and occasionally stingrays. The clear waters and relatively calm conditions make it an enjoyable dive for many.
Beyond the diving, Skopelos offers a tranquil escape. Explore Skopelos Town with its charming white-washed houses and narrow alleys. Visit the iconic Church of Agios Ioannis Sto Kastri, or simply enjoy the island's lush green landscapes and secluded beaches. Hiking and kayaking are excellent ways to experience the island's natural beauty.
Zakynthos, a verdant Ionian island, is a paradise for cave divers and those seeking an abundance of marine life. Its coastline is riddled with spectacular underwater caves, including the famous Blue Caves, which offer mesmerising light displays as sunlight refracts through the water. Other notable sites include the Keri Caves, with their intricate passages and resident groupers, and the Arch of Triumph, a dramatic underwater rock formation. Divers here can expect to encounter loggerhead sea turtles, a protected species that nests on the island's beaches, along with octopuses, moray eels, and various colourful reef fish.
On land, Zakynthos is famous for Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, accessible by boat. Explore Zakynthos Town with its Venetian-influenced architecture, or visit the Venetian Castle for panoramic views. The island also offers opportunities for watersports, hiking, and sampling local produce.
Safety and responsibility are paramount in diving, ensuring both your well-being and the preservation of Greece's precious marine environment. Always dive within your certification limits and never exceed your training. Plan your dives carefully with your buddy and communicate effectively underwater.
Regularly check your equipment before each dive and ensure it is in perfect properly. Maintain proper buoyancy control to avoid damaging delicate corals and marine life. Never touch, disturb, or collect marine organisms, and always respect the underwater environment. This includes refraining from feeding fish, as it can disrupt their natural behaviour.
Stay hydrated, especially in the warm Greek climate, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption before and after diving. Allow for sufficient surface interval time between dives and follow recommended no-fly times after diving to prevent decompression sickness.
Choose reputable dive centres that adhere to international safety standards and employ certified instructors and divemasters. They will provide thorough briefings, well-maintained equipment, and guidance on local conditions and marine life. Always listen to your dive guide's instructions.
If you are new to a particular dive site or conditions, hire a local guide. Their expertise can greatly enhance your safety and enjoyment. Remember, diving is an adventure, but a safe one is always the best one.
While the underwater world of Greece is undoubtedly captivating, the treasures above the surface are equally compelling. To truly experience the diverse landscapes, historical sites, and charming villages that Greece has to offer, renting a car is an absolute necessity for Czech divers. Imagine the freedom of driving along scenic coastal roads, stopping at secluded beaches for a spontaneous swim, or venturing into the heart of the countryside to discover traditional tavernas and ancient ruins.
Public transport in Greece, particularly on the islands, can be infrequent and limit your exploration. A rental car provides the flexibility to create your own itinerary, allowing you to move at your own pace and deviate from the typical tourist routes. From the rugged mountains of Crete to the volcanic vineyards of Santorini and the olive groves of Corfu, each island and mainland region offers a unique tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
Consider the convenience of having your diving gear securely stowed in your own vehicle, ready for your next aquatic adventure. After a thrilling dive, you can easily drive to a local restaurant for a well-deserved meal or head to your accommodation without relying on taxis or bus schedules.
It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and availability. Ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your Czech driving licence is not in English, although generally, a valid European driving licence is sufficient. Familiarise yourself with Greek driving regulations and be prepared for some winding roads, especially in mountainous areas.
So, as you plan your extraordinary diving expedition to Greece, remember that the adventure does not end at the water's edge. Embrace the freedom of the open road, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories by renting a car. It will undoubtedly enhance your overall Grecian experience, allowing you to seamlessly connect your underwater odyssey with a spectacular land-based exploration. Book a car on Final Rentals today. Your Greek adventure awaits, both above and below the shimmering blue.
