Rhodes: Scuba Diving Try Dive at Kalithea with Instructor

Summary

First-time scuba diving in Rhodes with expert instructors and crystal waters

You’ll step into clear Aegean waters at Kalithea with an experienced instructor guiding you through your first breaths underwater. Expect laughter on shore, honest nerves before your dive, and real stories from locals who know every rock here. All equipment is included—just bring curiosity (and maybe dry socks).

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled down the old stone steps at Kalithea, wetsuits half-zipped and masks dangling from our wrists. The morning sun was already hot on my neck, but the sea looked calm—just a faint slap against the rocks. Our instructor, Anna (from Thessaloniki, I think), grinned and asked if we were nervous. I definitely was. She handed me the regulator and said, “Just breathe like you’re napping.” Not sure I managed that at first.

The briefing was quick but somehow reassuring—lots of hand gestures and a few jokes about not feeding the fish our breakfast pastries. When we finally slipped under, everything muted except my own bubbles. The water off Rhodes is clearer than I expected; little silver fish darted past my hands, curious or maybe just used to clumsy newcomers. Anna pointed out something hiding in the rocks—I think she called it a “chromis,” but honestly, I was too busy trying not to drift into her fins.

Back on shore, there was this weird mix of saltwater taste and adrenaline in my mouth. One guy from Manchester kept laughing about how he forgot which way was up for a second (“I thought I’d end up in Turkey!”). We all sat around drying off while Anna told stories about diving here since she was a kid—her hands always moving when she talked. It felt less like a tour and more like hanging out with people who love being underwater.

I didn’t expect to remember how the sunlight hit those shallow rocks or how quiet it gets below the surface—but I do. If you’re thinking about trying scuba diving in Rhodes, just go for it. You’ll probably mess up your hair and maybe your nerves, but that’s part of it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day scuba diving experience

• Attend theory lesson
• Travel to Kalithea dive site
• Participate in Try Dive program
• Enjoy underwater exploration

Top questions

Is this scuba diving try dive suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's designed for first-timers with no prior experience required.

Where does the diving take place in Rhodes?

The main dive site is Kalithea; sometimes Ladiko beach is used in early spring or late autumn.

What’s included in the scuba diving day trip?

You get all SCUBA equipment and a professional instructor for your session.

Is hotel pickup included?

No mention of hotel pickup; you need to make your own way to the dive site.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

Yes—pregnant travelers, people with epilepsy or poor cardiovascular health shouldn't participate.

Can children join this try dive program?

Infants and small children can be present (in prams/strollers), but only suitable ages can dive.

How long does the full-day program last?

The full-day program runs throughout the day; exact hours may vary by season.

When is this diving experience available?

The boat trip runs May to October; March-April & November use Ladiko beach instead of boat access.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all SCUBA equipment and guidance from a professional instructor throughout your full-day session at Kalithea—or Ladiko beach if you're visiting outside peak season—so you can focus on breathing easy underwater without worrying about gear or logistics.