Double Shore Dive (certified divers)

Exploring Athens through the Double Shore Dive Tour: A Practical & Authentic Review

This certified shore dive experience in Athens offers a unique way to explore the coast away from the busy city streets. We’re looking at a small-group adventure designed for certified divers keen to enjoy two different underwater locations with the safety of certified instructors. The whole trip is about relaxing, hassle-free diving while soaking in some of the most scenic underwater views around Athens.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines convenience with an authentic dive experience — no crowded pools or busy boat rides, just a well-organized, peaceful shore dive at two carefully chosen spots. However, one thing to consider if you’re hoping for high-adrenaline or lengthy dives: the total duration is roughly 35 minutes, making it ideal for those who prefer shorter, manageable dives. If you’re a certified diver wanting a serene, well-guided introduction or reintroduction to the underwater world near Athens, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This experience suits travelers who value professional guidance, underwater photography, and small-group intimacy. It’s also great for those with limited time, as it packs in two different sites without the need for long boat rides or full-day commitments.

Key Points

• Two coastal locations offered for divers seeking variety and scenic underwater views
• Small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures personalized attention and safety
• Expert PADI-certified instructors guarantee a safe, educational experience
• Includes underwater photos and videos, a great way to remember your trip
• Hassle-free logistics with round-trip transportation and snacks included
• Weather-dependent site changes allow flexibility for optimal diving conditions

What to Expect from the Double Shore Dive Experience

This tour is tailored for certified divers looking to explore Athens’ calmer, less crowded dive sites. The overall duration is about 35 minutes underwater, which is enough for a relaxed, enjoyable experience rather than a deep technical exploration. The trip starts with pickup at the designated meeting point in Piraeus, just a short trip from central Athens, making it a practical choice whether you’re short on time or want a quick escape from city sightseeing.

The Diving Locations: Flexibility Based on Weather

Depending on conditions, the team will select from a handful of top coastal sites, including Vouliagmeni, Katafygi Bay, Legrena, or Porto Ennia. All are known for their clear waters and interesting underwater landscapes, such as rocky formations, small caves, or reefs. This site rotation is a smart move, as it ensures the best possible experience while reducing the risk of diving in suboptimal conditions. As one reviewer pointed out, “We change dive sites depending on the weather,” which shows a commitment to safety and quality.

The Dive Itinerary

On the day, you’ll suit up at the designated meeting point and transfer to your dive site in an air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size (maximum 6) creates an intimate setting, allowing your guides to give personalized tips and ensure everyone’s comfort. The guides are PADI-certified, which means they bring a wealth of knowledge and safety awareness, making the entire experience reassuring even for those a bit out of practice.

Once at the site, you’ll enjoy a shallow shore dive—a good choice for those wanting a relaxed experience rather than an adrenaline rush. The underwater scenery includes rock formations, underwater photography opportunities, and possibly some local marine life, which makes for a memorable dive.

Underwater Photography & Video

One of the most praised features of this tour is the inclusion of underwater photos and videos. Many reviewers mentioned how their guides captured quality footage, which is a perfect keepsake. For example, Debby B shared, “The underwater video and photos were fantastic,” emphasizing how this adds real value to the overall experience.

Snacks & Transportation

After the dive, the tour includes snacks and round-trip transportation, reducing the hassle often associated with organized excursions. This means you can focus solely on enjoying your underwater adventure, knowing logistics are handled. The transportation is air-conditioned, comfortable, and punctual, with the meeting point conveniently near public transit options.

The Value of This Experience

Pricing at $243.10 per person might seem a bit steep at first glance, but considering what’s included—two dive sites, professional guides, underwater photos, snacks, and transportation—it’s quite reasonable. For certified divers, this is an opportunity to enjoy Greece’s underwater beauty without the expense of private boat charters or complex arrangements.

Compared to other local options, some reviews note that this experience is slightly pricier than alternatives in Marathonos. However, the small group size and guaranteed expertise justify the premium, especially if you’re looking for a more personalized and safer dive.

Insights from Reviewers

Debby B’s review highlights the quality of the guiding and underwater photography, stating, “We had a 2-day stop in Piraeus and managed to fit in a dive with Seals Diving Center. The guides were knowledgeable, and the photos were excellent.” This points to experienced guides who know how to make the most of the conditions, a key factor for a satisfying dive.

Meanwhile, Roland_B’s feedback was more critical, mentioning that the experience was “relatively expensive and less exciting” compared to other local providers. He also noted that the photos weren’t up to par with expectations, reminding future travelers that while the service is professional, experiences can vary, and site excitement levels depend heavily on conditions and individual preferences.

Practicalities & Tips

• Bring your own towel, swimsuit, and flip flops, as these are not included.
• Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.
• The activity is suitable for most travelers with certification; service animals are allowed.
• The tour operates best in good weather; poor conditions might lead to cancellations or site changes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This shore dive experience works best for certified divers who want a relaxing, well-organized exploration of Athens’ nearshore sites. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a quality underwater experience with plenty of personal attention. It’s also suitable for those who want underwater photos to remember their trip, and for travelers who appreciate convenience and safety handled by seasoned professionals.

If you’re after adventure, deep technical dives, or lengthy underwater excursions, this might not be the right fit. However, for a calm, scenic, and well-guided short dive, it hits the mark perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Double Shore Dive from Seals Diving Center offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Athens from a different perspective. The combination of carefully selected sites, professional guidance, and thoughtful amenities makes it a strong choice, especially for certified divers wanting a safe, small-group experience.

While it’s a bit pricier than some local options, the included underwater photography, snacks, and personalized service add considerable value. Whether you’re a seasoned diver needing a quick refresher or a first-time certified diver eager for a scenic shallow dive, this tour provides an authentic and memorable underwater adventure.

If you value safety, comfort, and a touch of personalization, this tour will serve you well. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Athens’ coast without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves, all while enjoying the calm, clear waters just a short trip from the bustling city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for non-certified divers?
No, this experience is specifically for certified divers, as it involves two shore dives, and certification is required for safety reasons.

How long are the dives?
Each dive lasts approximately 35 minutes, providing enough time for a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

What equipment is included?
All necessary scuba equipment is provided, making it easy to pack light.

Can I get underwater photos and videos?
Yes, the tour includes underwater video and photography, which guides often capture for you.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring your towel, swimsuit, and flip flops, as these are not supplied.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsuitable, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund or alternative date.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Geor. Theotoki 37, Piraeus, with transportation included from there.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle takes you to and from the dive sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Exploring Athens from beneath the waves provides a fresh perspective on this historic city. With its blend of professionalism, scenic sites, and small-group intimacy, this shore dive experience is a solid choice for certified divers seeking a relaxed, memorable underwater outing.