Chania: 2 Boat Dives for Certified Divers

Diving in Crete offers a mix of vibrant marine life, intriguing wrecks, and spectacular underwater formations. This particular tour, operated by Salty Descents, promises two guided boat dives at some of the most renowned sites around Chania. Designed for certified divers, the experience combines small-group intimacy, expert guidance, and the chance to explore features like the Elephant Cave and WWI wrecks.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with safety. The small group size (limited to six participants) means personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal whether you’re an experienced diver or looking to brush up on your skills. A potential consideration is the price point of $147 per person, which, given the full equipment, insurance, and expert guides, still offers solid value—especially considering the stunning sites you’ll visit.

This experience suits travelers who already hold a diving certification and want to explore Crete’s underwater highlights with knowledgeable guides. If you’re craving a well-organized, intimate, and memorable diving day, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 divers for personalized attention.
• Two Guided Dives: Visit top sites like the Elephant Cave and WWI wrecks.
• All-Inclusive: Full equipment, insurance, and professional guiding included.
• Flexible Pickup: Multiple meet-up points or direct transport from your accommodation.
• Duration: Around 4 hours, with a mix of diving and light breaks.
• Ideal for Certified Divers: Not suitable for children under 10 or non-certified divers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Essence of the Experience

Salty Descents’ small-group boat trips are crafted to provide a relaxed yet engaging diving outing. For certified divers, this is a prime way to see Crete’s underwater treasures without the hassle of organizing your own boat trip. The group size being capped at six ensures that everyone gets personalized guidance, which can make a significant difference for those who appreciate attentive supervision.

The Itinerary Explained

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from one of seven convenient locations around Chania, including Vamos, Souda, Platanias, and Kalyves. After a roughly one-hour van ride, you’ll arrive at the Kalyves base, where a quick safety briefing sets the tone for the day.

From there, you’ll head to the port with your guide, hop aboard the boat, and set out for the diving sites. The itinerary is flexible—your guides potentially adjusting based on weather or safety conditions, which they communicate clearly. Expect to explore sites like the Elephant Cave, known for its dramatic formations and rare visibility, and WWI wrecks, which add an element of history to your underwater adventure.

What Makes the Stops Special

Elephant Cave is a highlight, with reviews emphasizing the “breathtaking” nature of the sight—”a true gem in Chania’s underwater landscape.” The cave’s intricate formations and the chance to see marine life at close quarters make it an unforgettable feature. The wreck sites, typically called WWI wrecks, offer a glimpse into history and are an exciting addition for those interested in maritime stories.

The tour includes two guided dives, giving you ample time to relax and enjoy each site. Between the dives, you’ll have a chance for a quick break, hydrate with bottled water or a light snack, and change cylinders comfortably on the boat.

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What To Expect During the Dives

Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll be briefed thoroughly before each dive, with reassurance from guides that they will check in on you regularly. One reviewer, Teresa, noted that her instructor was “extremely patient,” took the time to help her recall important details, and explained the cave formations with educational insights—making the experience both safe and enriching.

You’ll use full equipment provided, including options for NITROX (for certified NITROX divers), which adds a layer of flexibility for those wanting longer or more comfortable breathing gases.

The Logistics

The tour lasts around 4 hours, which strikes a practical balance, providing enough dive time without the day feeling overly long. Pickup times are arranged based on your chosen location, with drivers waiting no longer than 10 minutes past scheduled times. This punctuality helps keep the schedule tight and reliable.

The inclusion of full insurance and equipment adds peace of mind, especially for divers who prefer to avoid the hassle of packing their own gear. Plus, the light snack and bottled water keep you refreshed for the experience.

The Value of the Experience

At $147 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package—guidance from seasoned professionals, all necessary gear, insurance, and transportation. When you factor in the cost of equipment rental and the value of exploring top sites, this price becomes quite reasonable.

While the price might seem high for some, the quality, expertise, and access to premier dive sites justify it. It’s especially attractive for those who prioritize safety and personalized service. The small group size and inclusion of full insurance make this a worry-free way to enjoy Crete’s underwater landscape.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is perfect for certified divers who want to maximize their time in Crete with guided, hassle-free boat trips. The expert guides ensure safety and provide educational insights, making it suitable for those interested in learning more about the cave formations and wrecks.

It’s also a great choice for travelers who appreciate small, intimate groups over large, crowded tours. If you’re after a high-quality, reliable, and memorable diving outing with stunning views and fascinating sites, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

Salty Descents’ 2 boat dives for certified divers in Chania offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience that combines safety, expert guidance, and access to Crete’s spectacular underwater features. The small group setting enhances the feeling of personal attention, making you feel confident and cared for throughout your adventure.

The itinerary’s highlights—like the Elephant Cave and WWI wrecks—are genuinely exceptional, especially with the knowledgeable guides explaining the stories behind each site. The inclusion of full equipment and insurance means you can focus entirely on enjoying your dives without any worries.

This tour is best suited for certified divers seeking a premium, small-group experience in Crete, especially those eager to explore unique underwater landscapes with an experienced guide. If you’re looking for an authentic, safe, and scenic underwater adventure, this tour promises a memorable day beneath the waves.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes two guided boat dives, full diving equipment, insurance, a dive leader, pick-up and drop-off service, a light snack, and bottled water. NITROX is available for certified divers at an additional charge.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 6 divers for a more personalized experience with the guides. This small group size allows for better attention and safety.

Where do the pick-ups happen?
You can be picked up from any of seven locations around Chania, including Vamos, Souda, Platanias, Kalyves, and others. Alternatively, you can meet directly at the Kalyves dive center.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours from pick-up to drop-off, including the boat rides, diving, breaks, and logistics.

Is this suitable for beginners?
No, the tour is designed for certified divers only. It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those without certification.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. All diving gear and insurance are provided, but you might want to bring a camera or underwater equipment if you have it.

What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
Guides reserve the right to adjust or cancel plans due to safety concerns or weather conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes. You can reserve your spot without immediate payment, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and comfort, making it a fantastic way to experience Crete’s vibrant underwater world—whether you’re a seasoned diver or seeking to revisit your certification in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby