Scuba Diving in Mykonos: PADI Mini Course at Lia Reef

Ninety minutes in the water: theory, gear, and your first open-water dive

Try a DIVE is a 1.5-hour scuba diving mini course in Mykonos at Lia reef, taught by a PADI professional instructor. You learn diving theory and equipment basics on land, then descend for a 40–45 minute open-water dive in a closely supervised environment. The course includes a qualified instructor, full scuba equipment, DAN diving insurance, bottled water and professional underwater photography at no extra cost.

The Experience

You arrive with no diving experience and leave having breathed underwater. The course starts on land with the essentials: how to use the regulator, how to equalize pressure in your ears, how to signal your instructor if something feels wrong. A PADI professional walks you through each step, then gears you up and enters the water with you at Lia reef. The dive itself runs 40 to 45 minutes in a closely supervised setting—your instructor stays within arm's reach the whole time, watching your breathing and your comfort.

The reef itself is shallow enough for beginners and populated enough that you have something to look at. You practice the skills you just learned—clearing your mask underwater, retrieving a dropped object from the seafloor—while the instructor photographs you. Those photos are yours to keep, along with the DAN scuba diving insurance that covers you during the dive. Bring a valid ID and answer a health questionnaire before you start; some medical conditions (asthma, heart problems) may prevent you from diving, so check with your doctor first if you have any concerns.

The whole experience fits into a free afternoon or a morning before other plans. You'll need to avoid flying for 24 hours after diving, and children can join from age 10 onward. The instructor speaks English, Spanish, Italian, French or another language depending on the day—confirm when you book.

What’s included

• A qualified PADI diving instructor leading the entire course.
• full scuba equipment (wetsuit, tank, regulator, BCD and weights).
• DAN scuba diving insurance covering you during the dive.
• professional underwater photography.
• bottled water.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by GoDive Mykonos Diving Center

Is this one for you?The 1.5-hour format works for a free afternoon or a morning slot before other plans—you're in and out without a full-day commitment. Plan to avoid flying for 24 hours after diving, since ascending too quickly after a dive can cause decompression sickness.

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Top questions

What exactly happens during the 1.5-hour course?

The mini course splits between land and water. On land, you learn diving theory, equipment knowledge and basic safety skills with your PADI instructor. Then you enter the water at Lia reef and complete a 40–45 minute open-water dive where you practice what you learned while your instructor stays with you the entire time.

Do I need any diving experience or certification to join?

No—this course is designed for complete beginners. You need no prior experience or certification. All you need is a valid ID, the ability to answer a health questionnaire honestly, and comfort being in the water.

What is Lia reef like as a diving spot?

Lia reef in Mykonos is shallow and beginner-friendly, making it ideal for a first dive. The reef has enough marine life and structure to explore while you practice your new skills under close supervision.

Are the underwater photos included, or do I pay extra?

Professional underwater photography is included at no extra cost. Your instructor photographs you during the dive, and you receive the images afterward.

What happens if I have a medical condition—can I still dive?

You'll complete a health questionnaire before the course. Some pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart problems may prevent you from diving safely, so consult your doctor beforehand if you have any health concerns. Pregnant travelers are not recommended to dive.

Can I bring my children?

Children are welcome from age 10 onward. They follow the same course structure and receive the same instruction and supervision as adult participants.