Imagine sailing along the rugged coast of Ios, Greece, with the sun warming your back and the gentle sound of waves all around. That’s exactly what you get with the Boat Cruise and Shipwreck Scuba Diving offered by Mylopotas Watersports & New Dive Center. For around 1.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a scenic trip across turquoise waters, topped off with the chance to explore a fascinating shipwreck. Whether you’re already certified or have some diving experience, this activity promises a memorable blend of adventure and authentic Greek island scenery.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of coastal cruising—giving you a chance to soak in the beauty of Ios from the water—and exploring a real shipwreck. We love how the tour is accessible for certified divers, offering the chance to see beneath the waves without a long, complicated process. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to small groups (just five participants) means you’re likely to enjoy personalized attention from your instructor.
That said, a possible consideration is that the activity lasts only about 1.5 hours, so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might be a bit brief. Also, it requires prior certification or experience, so it’s not suited for complete beginners. Still, if you have some diving background and crave an authentic maritime encounter, this tour could be just right.
This experience is ideal for travelers with some diving experience interested in exploring Greece’s underwater wrecks, or certified divers looking for a quick but rewarding adventure. It’s perfect for those who love coastal scenery combined with underwater exploration—and for anyone eager to learn more about the local maritime history through the shipwreck.
Key Points
- Short but Scenic: The 1.5-hour activity combines boat cruising with a close-up of Ios’s coastline.
- Underwater Adventure: Explore a shipwreck at a maximum depth of 12 meters, suitable for Open Water Divers.
- Learning Opportunity: Practice diving skills and work towards certification with guided instruction.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to just five participants for more personalized attention.
- All Equipment Included: Scuba gear and transfer to the dive site are provided.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and reserve without immediate payment.
A Closer Look at the Experience
Planning more time in Mylopotas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Setting the Scene: Mylopotas and the Coastal Cruise
The tour begins at the Mylopotas Watersports – New Dive Center, conveniently located between the first and second bus stops at Mylopotas Beach. The meeting point’s easy access makes it straightforward to join your adventure, especially if you’re already enjoying the beach vibe of Ios.
Once suited up, you’ll hop onto a boat that takes you along the coast, offering spectacular views of Ios’s rugged shoreline and crystal-clear waters. We loved the way the boat cruise isn’t just a ride but a scenic introduction to the island’s natural beauty. Expect to see rocky coves, tiny beaches, and perhaps some local fishing boats—a perfect warm-up before the underwater exploration.
Preparing for the Dive: Gear and Instructions
The dive site is close enough that the transfer by boat is quick, usually only a few minutes, which keeps the excitement high. Your instructor, likely fluent in English and Greek, will gear you up at the dive center. All scuba equipment—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator—is included in the price, meaning you won’t need to worry about a thing.
Participants must have completed the Discover Scuba Diving program if they are beginners, or hold an Open Water certification. We appreciated how clear the requirements are, ensuring everyone is well-prepared for safety. The process involves a brief medical questionnaire and a quick review of essential skills, which helps keep everyone comfortable.
The Dive Site: Exploring the Shipwreck
Once aboard the boat, you’ll set out to a site with a maximum depth of 12 meters—ideal for certified divers and good practice for those working toward certification. The shipwreck itself is a fascinating feature, offering both historical intrigue and an opportunity for close examination of marine life that has made it home.
As you descend, your instructor will guide you past the rusting hull and structural remnants, which are often teeming with colorful fish and corals. We loved the way the wreck provides a tangible link to Ios’s maritime past, adding a layer of storytelling to your underwater adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity and Learning: What We Loved
One reviewer mentioned, “This was a next-level experience for me—I appreciated how it wasn’t just a dive but a chance to learn and practice skills in an authentic setting.” The guided nature of the activity makes it accessible for divers with some experience but also rewarding for those looking to sharpen their skills.
On top of that, the tour’s small group size ensures personalized guidance, helping you feel confident and engaged. Your instructor will be attentive, offering tips and safety assurances without rushing you—crucial for a smooth, enjoyable experience.
Considerations and Tips
A key consideration is that the activity is limited to participants with Open Water certification or previous Discover Scuba Diving experience. If you’re a complete beginner, you’ll need to complete the Discover program beforehand.
The activity doesn’t include hotel transportation or meals, so plan accordingly. Also, the duration of just 1.5 hours means it’s a quick snapshot—perfect if you’re on a tight schedule but perhaps not enough for someone craving a full-day adventure.
Why Choose This Experience?
If you’re a certified diver or have some diving background and want to explore Ios’s underwater secrets, this tour offers value and authenticity. It’s perfect for those who love combined land-and-sea activities, and want to experience Greece from both above and below the surface. The small-group setting and guided instruction make it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate, less crowded experience.
The Sum Up
The Mylopotas Boat Cruise and Shipwreck Scuba Diving provides a compact but highly memorable peek into Ios’s coastal beauty and maritime history. It’s especially appealing for certified divers eager for a quick underwater adventure, or those with previous diving experience looking to explore a real shipwreck in Greece. The combination of scenic boat rides, guided diving, and small-group intimacy ensures a focused, personal experience that balances safety with discovery.
For travelers who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences without the long commitment of multi-day dives, this activity hits the right note. It’s a chance to see beneath the waves in a relaxed setting—an excellent way to add a unique twist to your island visit.
FAQ
Do I need to have a diving certification?
Yes, you need to have an Open Water diving certificate or previous Discover Scuba Diving experience to participate.
Can beginners join this activity?
Beginners with prior diving experience are welcome, but complete newcomers must complete the Discover Scuba Diving program beforehand.
How long does the activity last?
The entire experience is approximately 1.5 hours, including briefing, boat transfer, and the dive.
Is equipment included?
Yes, all scuba gear and transfers to the dive site are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment.
Are there any age restrictions?
This activity is not suitable for children under 10 years old and pregnant women.
What languages are available for instruction?
Guides and instructors speak English and Greek.
Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
With its combination of scenic sailing, underwater exploration, and personalized guidance, this tour offers a genuine taste of Greece’s maritime charm—perfect for travelers eager to combine adventure with authenticity.
You can check availability for your dates here: