Kos: Beginner Scuba Diving at Pserimos Island

Looking to try scuba diving for the first time while enjoying a scenic boat trip around Kos? This half-day tour offers a safe, friendly introduction to underwater adventures, with a visit to the charming island of Pserimos. For around 6 hours, you’ll learn the basics, explore vibrant marine life, and soak up the Greek sunshine on a comfortable boat.

What we love about this tour is how well-organized it is—clear safety briefings help even nervous first-timers feel at ease, and the small group size means personalized attention from experienced instructors. Plus, the crystal-clear waters of the protected bay offer excellent visibility, making it easier to spot colorful fish and underwater sights.

One potential consideration is that the second dive is optional and costs extra, which might be a disappointment if you’re hoping for back-to-back underwater adventures. Also, since the tour is about beginners, serious divers or those with extensive experience might find it a bit limited.

This experience suits first-time divers, travelers who want a taste of the underwater world without a lengthy commitment, or anyone keen to combine a scenic boat ride with a safe introduction to scuba. It’s perfect if you’re curious about what lies beneath the surface but prefer a relaxed, guided, and well-structured outing.

Key Points

• Safe for beginners: Comprehensive safety briefings and small groups ensure a confident start.
• Beautiful marine life: Crystal-clear waters and protected bay make spotting fish and underwater scenery easy.
• Flexible options: One included dive, with a second dive available for an extra fee.
• Expert guidance: Certified instructors provide thorough explanations and support.
• Relaxing boat cruise: Enjoy coastal views and sun on a comfortable boat during the trip.
• Ideal for first-timers: No prior experience required, and the activity is suitable for ages 12 and up.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Setting: From Kos to Pserimos

We begin our day bright and early, departing from Kos harbour at 8:30 AM. The boat ride to Pserimos takes about 45 minutes, during which we are treated to views of the Aegean Sea’s sparkling waters and the distant outlines of other Greek islands. The boat is comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery.

What immediately stands out is how smooth the journey is, thanks to a friendly captain and crew. This part of the trip isn’t just transportation—it’s an opportunity to settle in and get excited about the upcoming underwater adventure. The crew often shares tidbits about the local area, adding a layer of context and interest.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Once on Pserimos, the guides—who are well-versed in Greek and English—give an in-depth briefing lasting about 20 minutes. This covers how to use the equipment, safety protocols, and what to expect during the dive. We appreciated how clear and patient the instructors were, explaining every step without rushing.

This part is the most important for beginners, setting the tone for a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re unsure about your swimming ability or just nervous about breathing underwater, the guides ensure you understand and feel comfortable before entering the water.

The Bay: Calm Waters and Marine Life

The dive takes place in a protected bay, with rocky outcrops on either side, creating a natural barrier from waves. The maximum depth of 5 meters is perfect for first-timers—allowing us to stay close to the surface but still explore the underwater environment.

During the 20-25 minute dive, you are in a small group of 4 or 5 divers, each with two instructors. This small-group approach makes a big difference—it means personalized attention, tailored instructions, and plenty of support.

The water is so remarkably clear that visibility exceeds expectations, making spotting fish and underwater plants easy. We loved the way the instructors pointed out different marine creatures, stopping to let us interact and take photos. The marine life is abundant, with colorful fish darting around the rocks and coral.

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The Underwater Experience

Many reviewers mention how initial nerves give way to excitement and awe. As one reviewer put it, “It felt a bit scary in the beginning but felt more and more comfortable as it went on.” This is a common sentiment—guides do a fantastic job of making everyone feel safe and supported.

You’ll have plenty of time to look, interact, and photograph the underwater world—an activity that both children and adults find magical. Since the dive is short but well-paced, it’s perfect for newcomers who want to dip their toes into scuba without feeling overwhelmed.

Post-Dive Relaxation and Optional Second Dive

After your first dive, you get a relaxing break on the boat’s sundeck. Here, you can sip water, soak up the sun, or snorkel around the boat if you wish. Many find this time to reflect on their underwater sighting and enjoy the scenic views.

For those eager for more, an additional dive is available for €45, though it’s not included in the initial price. Some reviews highlight that the option to extend your underwater experience is appreciated, while others prefer to just relax and unwind afterward.

Final Return and Overall Atmosphere

We return to Kos around midday, feeling satisfied with the morning’s adventure. The entire tour balances adventure with relaxation—you get to try something new without it feeling rushed or over strenuous.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At around 6 hours, this experience packs a lot of value, especially given that all equipment, safety briefings, and expert guidance are included in the price. The small group size enhances safety and makes the activity more personalized. The crystal-clear waters and friendly instructors turn what can be a nerve-wracking activity into an enjoyable first step into scuba.

The Real Advantage: Authentic, Guided Underwater Encounters

Many guests comment on how knowledgeable and supportive the guides are. This isn’t a generic tour; it’s a carefully crafted experience designed to help beginners feel confident and comfortable. The fact that the marine environment is so accessible makes it a wonderful introduction—no prior experience needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for first-time divers and non-swimmers confident in their ability to swim, aged 12 and above. If you’re looking for a low-pressure, guided introduction to the underwater world with stunning scenery and friendly instructors, this is a solid choice. It’s also perfect for those who want to combine a scenic boat trip with a light underwater adventure.

However, if you’re an experienced diver or seeking a multi-day certification, this tour might be too basic. Also, if you prefer to do back-to-back dives or want longer underwater time, the optional second dive might not be enough.

Practical Details

• The tour departs from Liamis Dive Centre on Kos, with available starting times (check availability).
• Duration is approximately 6 hours, with a half-day of activity.
• The included price covers boat transfers, equipment, instructor guidance, and one dive.
• The second dive costs an additional €45, payable on the boat.
• You’ll want to bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, cash, and snacks for the day.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 12, non-swimmers, or those with serious medical issues.

FAQs

Is prior experience necessary?
No, this tour is designed for beginners, with safety briefings and instructors guiding you every step of the way.

How deep will I go?
The maximum depth is 5 meters, making it ideal for first-timers and those wary of deep water.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, sunglasses, hat, cash, and snacks. All diving equipment and snorkeling gear are provided.

Can I do more than one dive?
Yes, an additional dive is available for €45, payable on the boat, but it’s optional.

What if I can’t swim well?
You need to be able to swim to participate, but you don’t need prior experience.

When is the best time to go?
Check availability for start times, but the tour is generally suited for daylight hours when the sea is calm and visibility is good.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 12 years.

Is it safe?
Yes, with qualified instructors, safety briefings, and controlled conditions in a protected bay.

Final Thoughts

This beginner scuba tour on Pserimos Island delivers an engaging, safe, and visually stunning introduction to underwater exploration. It’s a great way to add a touch of adventure to your Greek island holiday without needing any prior experience. The expert guidance, beautiful marine environment, and relaxed schedule make it suitable for anyone curious about the underwater world.

If you’re new to diving, want a safe introduction with plenty of support, and enjoy scenic boat rides, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also perfect for travelers looking for a memorable activity that combines nature, culture, and a dash of adventure.

To sum it up, this tour offers genuine value through its blend of professional guidance, stunning scenery, and accessible introduction to scuba diving. It’s well-suited for first-timers, families, and anyone eager to see the sea’s vibrant life in a friendly, stress-free setting. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a healthy respect for the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: