Introductory Scuba Diving Course in Crete: Learn to Dive

Learn to breathe underwater, then dive into the Mediterranean

An introductory scuba diving course in Crete for ages 10 and up, with no prior experience needed. The course runs four hours and covers theory, confined water training in a pool or shallow sea, and a guided open-water dive to 3–6 meters depth with a certified instructor. Swimmers in good health can book; the course is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with cardiovascular concerns.

The Experience

The course starts on land. You'll spend the first part learning the theory—how the equipment works, how to breathe underwater, what to do if something goes wrong. The instructor walks through each step, and there's no rushing. Once you understand the basics, you move into confined water training, either in a pool or in shallow sea, where you practice the skills you just learned with the instructor right beside you. This is where the nervousness usually fades; you're in control, the water is calm, and your guide is watching every move.

The open-water dive comes last, and it's the moment everything clicks. You descend to 3–6 meters with your instructor, who stays with you the entire time. Direct supervision is obligatory—you're never alone down there. The Mediterranean at that depth is clear enough to see the bottom, the rocks, maybe some fish moving through. It's not deep, it's not dangerous, and it's the first time most people realize they can actually do this. The whole course takes about four hours from start to finish.

You'll need to be a good swimmer and in solid health—no previous diving experience required, but moderate physical fitness matters. Children as young as 10 can take the course if they're comfortable in water and accompanied by an adult. The equipment is provided, and the instructor is certified and speaks English. Pickup is included depending on which location you choose: Ammoudara, Chania, Rethymnon-Georgioupolis, or Hersonissos.

What’s included

• Theory class and pool training session.
• guided open-water dive with certified instructor.
• all diving equipment.
• instruction in English.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Cretan Holidays

Is this one for you?Book this course if you have a free morning and want to try scuba diving without committing to a full certification—the four-hour timeline fits a day trip, and the instructor's constant presence means you can focus on learning instead of worrying about safety.

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Top questions

Do I need to know how to dive before I book this course?

No previous diving experience is required. The introductory course teaches you everything from the start—theory, confined water training, and then the open-water dive. You do need to be a comfortable swimmer and in good health.

How deep will I go on the open-water dive?

The open-water dive goes to 3–6 meters depth. It's shallow enough to see the bottom clearly and to feel in control, but deep enough to experience real scuba diving in the Mediterranean.

Is the instructor with me the whole time?

Yes. Direct supervision is obligatory throughout the course. The instructor is with you during pool training and stays beside you during the open-water dive.

What's included in the course fee?

The course includes theory instruction, confined water training, a guided open-water dive, and all diving equipment. The instructor is certified and speaks English.

Which location should I choose?

You can book from four locations: Ammoudara, Chania, Rethymnon-Georgioupolis, or Hersonissos. Pickup is included depending on the option you select at checkout.

Can children take this course?

Yes, children ages 10 and up can take the course if they're comfortable swimmers. They must be accompanied by an adult throughout.