Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and lively streets; it also offers surprisingly good opportunities for scuba diving—especially if you’re itching to see the underwater side of Greece’s coastline. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver, the options range from quick introductory sessions to full-day excursions exploring famous dive sites. We love the Athens East Coast: Discover Scuba Diving in Nea Makri for its small-group focus and personalized guidance, perfect for beginners wanting a stress-free start. But if you’re an experienced diver with certification, the Athens Scuba Diving Experience for Certified Divers at the Blue Hole offers a chance to explore renowned sites like Vouliagmeni Lake and the Blue Hole itself.
While Athens’s history is world-famous, its underwater offerings are often overlooked—making it a surprisingly good spot for aquatic adventures. Whether you want a relaxing introduction or an adrenaline-filled dive into underwater caves, the options detailed below will help you find the right fit.
1. Athens East Coast: Discover Scuba Diving in Nea Makri
At number one, this Discover Scuba Diving experience stands out for its small-group setting, capped at four people, which makes for very personalized instruction. Located just outside Athens, Nea Makri offers warm, crystal-clear waters of Schinias Bay, perfect for beginners. The tour includes a thorough safety briefing, personalized guidance, and all equipment needed to get comfortable underwater. The dive lasts about two hours, with a total trip duration of three hours, making this ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see marine life.
Reviews highlight the professionalism of instructors like Dimitris, who are praised for their patience and calm demeanor. Several visitors mention that this was their favorite activity on holiday, with one calling it “the best thing we done on holiday by far.” The focus on safety and small groups creates a stress-free environment for first-timers.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, relaxed introduction to scuba diving with excellent guidance and no prior experience necessary, this tour offers fantastic value at $96 per person.
2. Discover Scuba Diving Experience in Nea Makri, Athens
Ranking second, this Discover Scuba Diving Experience is perfect for those wanting a slightly longer, more immersive introduction. The tour lasts approximately four hours, including the training and the actual dive in the Mediterranean, with all equipment provided. The small-group format ensures hands-on support from instructors, making it suitable for absolute beginners.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to learn the basics from your instructor before heading into the water, with photos or videos provided afterward to remember your underwater debut. Guests rave about Dmitry’s professionalism and patience, highlighting how well-supported they felt during the experience. The price of $98.69 offers good value considering the inclusion of training, gear, and the memorable first dive.
Bottom line: This experience is ideal for anyone new to scuba diving who wants a detailed, well-led introduction with the bonus of photos afterward.
3. Try Scuba Diving, Beginners’ Experience
At number three, the Try Scuba Diving Beginners’ Experience located in Anavyssos offers a quick, four-hour adventure south of Athens. It’s perfect if you want to see what scuba diving is all about without a huge time commitment. After an introduction to diving theory on dry land, you’ll venture into waters where you can stand and gradually progress to breathing underwater at depths of up to 16 feet.
Guests often mention how enjoyable and safe the experience is, with instructors like Stavros making beginners feel at ease. The tour includes all necessary gear, and the friendly environment helps novices overcome apprehension. The price point of $92.89 makes it accessible for many.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about scuba but not ready for a full certification, this tour provides a safe, fun, and manageable way to experience underwater breathing.
4. Athens Scuba Diving Experience for Certified Divers with pick up
Number four on our list, this certified divers’ tour is ideal if you’re already certified and want to explore Athens’s underwater sites like the Blue Hole or Vouliagmeni Lake. The 5-hour trip includes hotel pickup and round-trip transport, making logistics easy. You’ll get to dive at famous sites with experienced guides, ensuring safety and a tailored experience.
This tour is limited to eight participants, offering a small-group feel. Reviews commend the professionalism of the dive crew and mention how well-maintained the equipment is. The Blue Hole, known for its unique underwater features, makes this a special outing for seasoned divers.
Bottom line: For around $210, this is a great value for certified divers eager to explore Athens’s iconic dive sites with convenience and expert guidance.
5. Private Discover scuba diving for beginners in Athens with pickup
Number five offers a personalized experience—Private Discover Scuba Diving —perfect for those who prefer privacy or a more tailored approach. This 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all equipment, and instructor guidance. The small group of up to six ensures plenty of individual attention.
You’ll learn basic scuba skills on dry land before heading into the water to breathe and explore marine life like eels and octopuses. Guests praise the attentive, friendly service, with many mentioning how safe and supported they felt. The personal touch and all-inclusive approach make this a good choice for nervous beginners or couples looking for a private adventure.
Bottom line: If you want a private, stress-free introduction to scuba diving with all gear included and a maximum of six people, this tour is hard to beat.
6. Discover Scuba Diving Private Fun Activity in Athens
Number six features Discover Scuba Diving Private Fun Activity, a 3.5-hour private session designed for those craving a personalized experience. Hotel pickup is included, and the instructor guides you through the basics before you go into the water.
The small group size ensures a calm, thorough introduction, especially useful if you’re feeling anxious. Participants mention the professional attitude of the team and how it made their underwater experience enjoyable. It’s a flexible option for those with limited time but eager to try scuba.
Bottom line: For a private, tailored, and shorter introduction to scuba, this experience offers excellent support and all necessary equipment.
7. Athens: Private Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners
Number seven’s Private Discover Scuba Diving is similar to the previous private tour but emphasizes a full five-hour experience. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a calm environment with personalized attention. The tour includes hotel pickup, all gear, and a chance to see Mediterranean marine life in a safe setting.
Guests mention that their instructor was thoughtful and patient, making the experience memorable. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a more relaxed, private approach to their first underwater breath.
Bottom line: If a private, comprehensive introduction to scuba diving sounds appealing, this offers a good balance of support, comfort, and quality.
8. 3 Hour Private Scuba Diving Experience
Number eight offers a quick but high-quality 3-hour private scuba experience. Perfect for travelers with tight schedules, it includes online training, equipment, and a guided dive, all in a small group setting. The focus is on giving beginners a safe space to explore underwater with a friendly instructor.
Reviewers mention the great attitude of the crew and how the experience was fun and educational. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a brief but well-managed introduction.
Bottom line: Short, private, and supportive—ideal if you want a taste of scuba diving without a big time commitment.
9. From Athens: Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole
Number nine takes you to the famous Blue Hole in Vouliagmeni, a uniquely shaped underwater cavern. This 5-hour tour is suitable for certified divers eager to explore a well-known site with experienced guides. The Blue Hole offers dramatic underwater formations and clear waters.
Reviewers note the quality of the dive with Danae, praising the attention to safety and the memorable scenery. This tour is perfect for those with some experience looking for a special dive in Athens’s most iconic location.
Bottom line: Certified divers who want to experience the Blue Hole should consider this well-organized, scenic dive with a knowledgeable guide.
10. Try scuba dive
Number ten is a straightforward option—Try Scuba Dive—offering a simple introduction for beginners. It includes about four hours of fun, with all gear provided, and is suitable for those curious about breathing underwater for the first time.
Guests mention how approachable and friendly the instructors are, making it a relaxed environment to try something new. If you’re pressed for time but want to see what scuba is all about, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: A quick, supportive introduction to scuba diving perfect for first-timers who want an easy, no-stress experience.
11. Athens: Discover Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
Finally, number eleven offers another Discover Scuba Diving experience. Lasting around four hours, it emphasizes learning to breathe underwater in a controlled, guided setting. Participants often praise the calm, friendly atmosphere and the excellent instruction.
This option is great if you’re new to diving and want a safe, enjoyable first taste of the underwater world of Athens.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, guided experience with good reviews, this tour provides a solid introduction to scuba diving in Greece.
How to Choose Your Perfect Athens Scuba Experience
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time availability, and experience level. For a quick introduction that still feels professional, Try Scuba Dive or Discover Scuba Diving Beginners’ Experience are excellent. If you’re certified and want to explore the Blue Hole or Vouliagmeni Lake, the certified dives provide the best value with added convenience. Private options like Discover Scuba Diving Private Fun Activity give you tailored attention, perfect for nervous first-timers or couples.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, when demand for these local trips surges. Think about your fitness level and comfort — some tours involve standing in shallow waters, while others dive into more advanced sites.
To sum it up, Athens offers a surprising variety of scuba diving experiences that cater to all levels and interests. Whether you want to simply breathe underwater for the first time or explore renowned dive sites like the Blue Hole, there’s an option for you. For first-timers, the small-group, beginner-friendly tours stand out for their safety and personal touch. More experienced divers can enjoy the certified dives at Vouliagmeni Lake or the Blue Hole, which promise memorable underwater sights.
To get the most out of your trip, consider your comfort level, schedule, and budget. And don’t forget to book early—these worthwhile experiences fill up quickly, especially in the summer months. Dive into Athens’s underwater world—you won’t regret it.