Amorgos: Basic Diver Course at Amorgos Diving Center

If you’re dreaming of discovering what lies beneath the waves and considering a beginner’s course, the Basic Diver program at Amorgos Diving Center offers a well-rounded introduction. Set against the stunning backdrop of South Aegean Greece, this 2-day course combines theory, pool practice, and open water experiences—all under the guidance of professional SSI instructors. It’s designed for first-timers who want a safe, enjoyable way to dip their toes into diving.

One of the standout features of this experience is the small group size, limited to 10 participants, which means more personalized attention. Plus, the fact that you can credit your academic and in-water sessions toward future diving certifications makes this a smart, budget-friendly choice for those planning to continue exploring underwater. That said, with a price of $219, it’s a good value but not the cheapest beginner option out there, especially considering equipment rental is included.

A possible consideration? The course is quite condensed—just two days—so if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or a comprehensive certification from the start, you might find this a bit intense. However, for travelers with limited time or those unsure about full certification, it’s a perfect way to try diving without a long-term commitment. This experience suits adventurous spirits wanting a safe, guided taste of the underwater world on a beautiful Greek island.

Key Points

• Two-day format offers an efficient, immersive introduction to diving.
• Credit towards higher certifications makes it a cost-effective stepping stone.
• Small groups ensure personalized instruction tailored to your learning pace.
• Includes full rental equipment for a hassle-free experience.
• Supervised open water dive from a boat allows you to explore up to 12 meters.
• Ideal for beginners aged 9 and up, but not suitable for pregnant women or those with heart problems.

A Closer Look at What to Expect

This 2-day program is carefully designed to build your confidence and skills in a safe, manageable way. It begins with a theory session—probably the most straightforward part of the program—which covers basic diving principles and safety measures. You’ll learn about equipment, underwater communication, and safety protocols in a classroom setting, often led by multilingual instructors fluent in English, French, and Greek.

Following that, you’ll transition to a confined water session in the pool, which is capped at a depth of 5 meters. This part is crucial for practical skill development. We loved how reviewers appreciated the small group format, stating, “the instructors took plenty of time to ensure everyone was comfortable and understood the basics.” Expect to practice breathing, mask clearing, regulator retrieval, and buoyancy control here—fundamental skills for any diver.

The highlight for many is the open water session from a boat, where you’ll dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters. The boat trip itself is often praised for being smooth and scenic, offering beautiful views of Aegiali Beach and the surrounding landscape. The open water experience allows you to see marine life, explore rock formations, or simply enjoy floating in the clear waters of Greece. One reviewer mentioned that “diving from the boat felt surprisingly relaxing, and the instructor kept a close eye on everyone’s safety.”

Post-course, you’re authorized to dive under supervision for the next 6 months, which is a great window to practice what you’ve learned or plan the next step towards full certification. Having the academic and practical sessions credited towards SSI’s broader diver programs makes this an accessible introduction that can evolve into a deeper passion without starting over.

The Practicalities: What’s Included & Meeting Details

The package includes everything you need: full rental equipment, academic materials, and supervision during your water sessions. Meeting at the Amorgos Diving Center on Aegiali Beach, you’ll find a welcoming team ready to assist. The center’s reputation is solid, with many visitors noting the friendly, knowledgeable staff who make safety and fun their top priorities.

Sessions typically run in small groups, making the experience more personalized; reviews note that the instructors are attentive and patient, often going the extra mile to ensure comfort, especially for nervous beginners. The flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds a layer of reassurance when planning your trip.

What should you bring? Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Since smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted, you can focus fully on your learning with a clear head. Expect the course to be held over two days, with the exact start times depending on the schedule.

The Value of This Experience

At $219 per person, the course price is quite competitive considering the inclusivity of equipment rental, supervision, and the scenic setting. While it might seem like a short course, the emphasis on quality instruction and small group sizes means you’ll get ample personalized guidance. For those contemplating diving as a hobby, this is a low-risk way to test the waters before committing to certification.

The fact that you can credit the academic and confined water sessions toward SSI’s Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certifications is a significant perk, saving both time and money down the line. Plus, the underwater experience from a boat in the Greek Islands is genuinely memorable—clear, warm waters, and a chance to see marine life—all within your reach after just two days.

Who Should Consider This Course?

This program is best suited for beginners aged 9 and up who want a safe, guided introduction to the underwater world. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire to try diving without immediately committing to a full certification. It’s also great for those who want a small-group experience with personalized attention, especially if you’re nervous about trying something new.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart problems, as safety protocols require certain health considerations. If you’re looking for an in-depth, multi-day course with comprehensive certification from the start, this might feel a bit rushed, but for a taste of diving in a stunning Greek setting, it hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the program is designed specifically for beginners, with all necessary skills and knowledge taught from scratch. No prior experience is needed.

What is the maximum depth I’ll be allowed to dive?
You’ll learn to dive up to 12 meters (about 40 feet) under supervision, which is ideal for exploring marine environments safely.

Are the sessions small?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized instruction and plenty of individual attention.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the academic session, pool/confined water practice, open water dive from a boat, full rental equipment, and supervision by an SSI professional.

Can I credit this toward a full certification later?
Yes, the academic and water sessions from this course can be credited toward SSI’s Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certifications.

Is the equipment provided?
Yes, full rental equipment is included, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Remember, smoking and alcohol are not allowed during the course.

Final Thoughts

The Basic Diver course at Amorgos Diving Center offers an accessible, well-organized introduction to the underwater world, set within one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. The small group format, professional supervision, and inclusive rental gear ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience—even for absolute beginners. The ability to credit your sessions toward further certifications makes it a practical choice for travelers considering diving as a future hobby.

For those seeking a safe, memorable first step into diving, combined with the stunning scenery and clear waters of Amorgos, this course surpasses expectations without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic way to see if underwater exploration fits your travel style, all while enjoying Greece’s laid-back island vibe.

This experience is best suited for curious, adventure-loving travelers, especially those on a tight schedule or looking for a cost-effective way to try diving. If you’re after a personalized, beginner-friendly introduction with scenic views and professional guidance, this program is worth considering.

Note: Always check with the provider regarding specific health requirements or weather conditions that could influence your experience. Safe diving!