Blog | Kefi Divers - Diving Tips & Stories from Crete

Diving tips, underwater discoveries, and stories from Kefi Divers in Chania, Crete. Learn about dive sites, marine life, and the best diving experiences in Greece.

Discover the New Diving Park in Apokoronas, Crete

Located in the stunning area of Ombros Gialos, Apokoronas' new diving park is a protected marine area spanning over 60,000 square meters, transforming the coastal waters into one of the Mediterranean's most exciting underwater destinations.

Marine Archaeology in Crete: Exploring WWII Wrecks

Crete's waters hold secrets from the past – sunken vessels that tell stories of wartime heroism and tragedy. Explore the British Landing Craft and SS Minnewaska III wrecks.

Unearthing WWII: Newly Discovered Junkers Ju-88 Wreck in Rethymno

Dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Cretan Sea to explore a newly discovered WWII airplane wreck, adding another chapter to Crete's rich underwater history.

The Ultimate Guide To Scuba Diving In Crete

Discover the best diving spots across Crete, from Koutalas Beach in Almyrida to the stunning waters of Elounda, Agia Pelagia, and beyond.

Night Diving in Crete: Exploring the Underwater World After Dark

Night dives offer a captivating adventure like no other. The mesmerizing waters of Chania, Almyrida beckon daring souls to explore the enchanting beauty hidden beneath the surface.

Scuba Diving in Chania: The Complete Guide

Chania has been voted the best place to dive in Crete. Dive into the crystal clear waters and discover a treasure trove of diving opportunities.

Kefi Divers blog about scuba diving in Crete

diving blog article by Kefi Divers

Diving in Almyrida & Chania Just Got Even Better: Discover the New Diving Park in Apokoronas, Crete

Dive Sites

April 6, 2025

12 min read

What Is the Diving Park in Apokoronas?

Explore the Beauty of Apokoronas, Almyrida, and Chania

Scuba Diving in Crete, Chania and Almyrida

A Decade in the Making

Meet the Tugboat Nestor

What You'll Find Underwater

Why Scuttle a Ship?

Artificial Reefs & Environmental Impact

Why the Underwater Park Matters

Why it's Great News for Divers in Almyrida and Chania

Dive Into Adventure with Kefi Divers

Visitor Tips: Plan Your Dive

🚨 Urgent Update

The first ship was successfully sunk at 10am on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025! This marks a huge milestone in the creation of the Apokoronas Diving Park — Crete's newest and most exciting dive site is officially coming to life beneath the waves!

🚨 Reef Update

The 44 reef structures were placed onto the seabed in October 2024! These artificial reefs were created using advanced technology from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, offering a safe haven for marine life in Ombros Gialos.

If you're searching for unforgettable diving in Almyrida or exploring the underwater world around Chania, there's exciting news on the horizon. The new diving park in Apokoronas offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and man-made structures.

As a dive centre based right here in Almyrida, we're thrilled to be located just minutes from what will soon be one of Europe's top destinations for recreational diving, underwater exploration, and marine conservation.

Located in the stunning area of Ombros Gialos, Apokoronas' new diving park is a protected marine area spanning over 60,000 square meters. It's being developed to attract divers worldwide and support local marine life through artificial reefs and sunken ships.

Whether you're looking for a scuba diving adventure in Chania, a new spot to explore from Almyrida, or an eco-tourism experience — this dive park delivers on all fronts.

Local Attractions Around the Diving Park

Apokoronas, on the northwestern coast of Crete, is a beautiful region filled with charming villages, rich history, and stunning landscapes. After your dive, take a relaxing stroll around Almyrida — known for its cozy tavernas, cafes, and sandy beach.

A short drive takes you to Chania, one of Crete's most historically rich cities. The Venetian Harbor is a must-see, and you can visit the Archaeological Museum or explore the Ancient Aptera ruins.

Day Trip Ideas

For nature lovers, the Samaria Gorge (UNESCO World Heritage Site) offers a challenging but rewarding hike. Or simply enjoy the serenity of the surrounding olive groves — a signature of Cretan rural life.

Accessibility from Popular Locations

From Almyrida, the diving park is just a short drive away. Chania is only 20 km away, and from Heraklion it's approximately a 2-hour drive — easy for a day trip.

Local Dive Shops and Facilities

Kefi Divers is based minutes from the new diving park and our experienced instructors are ready to guide you through it once it officially opens.

We offer a range of diving courses from beginner to advanced, and can help you explore other nearby dive sites too.

Crete is one of the most popular places to dive in Greece. With warm, clear waters and a wide range of marine life, it's perfect for beginners and certified divers alike.

Scuba Diving in Chania

The region of Chania has quickly become a favourite among divers visiting Crete. From natural reefs to underwater caves and now the diving park, it offers plenty of variety.

Scuba Diving in Almyrida

Almyrida is an ideal base for diving, with calm waters and easy access to shore dives. As the home of our dive centre, we offer courses, guided dives on established sites, and insider knowledge of the local coastline.

The diving park is the culmination of a project that began in autumn 2014. Over the years, the initiative faced numerous bureaucratic challenges, requiring 46 approvals and decisions by eight ministers.

The development involved meticulous planning — addition and removal of seabed materials, installation of artificial reefs and sunken ships, directional signage, lighting, and mooring points.

The establishment of the diving park not only enhances the region's appeal to diving enthusiasts but also contributes to marine conservation by creating new habitats for marine life.

Before becoming an underwater attraction, the Tugboat Nestor served as a powerful vessel designed to maneuver larger ships. Tugboats are built to withstand tough conditions, making them ideal candidates for artificial reefs.

Now resting on the seafloor at Ombros Gialos near Almyrida, the Tugboat Nestor provides both a thriving habitat for marine life and an exciting wreck site for divers.

🌊 Artificial Reefs

44 reef structures have been placed to encourage coral and marine life growth. This will create a vibrant underwater ecosystem perfect for photographers, marine life lovers, and conservationists.

⚓ Shipwrecks to Explore

Two decommissioned Greek navy vessels are being transformed into artificial wrecks, creating unique opportunities for safe and exciting wreck dives.

The second vessel, named Folegrandros, is scheduled to be scuttled in November 2025. At 42 meters in length, it will be the larger and deeper of the two wrecks.

🤿 Dive Routes for All Experience Levels

With depths ranging from 8.5m to 25m, the park is suitable for everyone — from beginners to seasoned divers. Three distinct dive routes will each offer unique underwater experiences.

Scuttling a ship — intentionally sinking it in a controlled, environmentally responsible way — is widely used to create artificial reefs. The Tugboat Nestor adds a captivating wreck for divers while providing a secure habitat for marine life.

Accessible to All

The Tugboat Nestor lies at the perfect depth for Open Water Divers, making it accessible to beginners while still being exciting for experienced divers. It's a win-win for the environment and for wreck diving enthusiasts.

At the heart of the project are artificial reef structures designed in collaboration with the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research. They provide essential shelter and feeding grounds for marine life.

The park promotes eco diving in Crete, helping reduce the strain on over-exploited natural dive sites and ensuring these important ecosystems remain healthy.

The Apokoronas Diving Park brings benefits far beyond the bubbles:

Marine Biodiversity: Sunken ships and reef structures provide shelter and breeding grounds, helping restore underwater ecosystems.

Tourism & Local Economy: Expected to attract divers worldwide, boosting local businesses from dive centres to restaurants.

Education & Conservation: A living classroom offering hands-on learning about Mediterranean marine environments.

Eco-Friendly Activities: Guided snorkeling, marine photography, and citizen science dives centred around responsible exploration.

What truly sets this site apart is the feeling you get underwater — a sense of something new, something growing. Not just coral and fish, but an entire underwater community in the making.

This isn't just another dive site — it's a place that shows what happens when environmental care, community effort, and diving passion come together.

We had the privilege of being the first dive centre to visit the wreck, marking a special milestone in both our journey and the dive park's story. That's why we're proud to take our divers there.

Based in the heart of Almyrida, Kefi Divers is your local gateway to the incredible new Apokoronas Diving Park. We're crafting unforgettable dive experiences — guided tours, custom packages, and relaxed day trips.

Want to be one of the first to explore the new park? Register your interest here and we'll contact you as soon as it officially opens.

Discover Scuba Diving

Certified Diver (Fun Dives)

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Planning your diving adventure at the Apokoronas Diving Park? Here are essential tips:

Best Time to Dive

Visit between May and October for the warmest weather and calmest seas. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C with visibility often reaching 20–30 metres.

Dive with a Certified Instructor

It's always a good idea to dive with a certified instructor, especially if you're unfamiliar with the site. Kefi Divers offers experienced professionals who'll guide you through safely.

Bring or Rent the Right Gear

Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned pro, ensure you have the right equipment. Our dive centre provides high-quality rental gear suited to the conditions.

Choose Your Dive Site

The new diving park has multiple dive routes, each offering unique underwater experiences. Talk to our team to find the best route for your experience level.

Tugboat R/K Nestor

The ship was donated to the municipality of Apokoronas.

Unearthing WWII: Newly Discovered Junkers Ju-88 Airplane Wreck in Rethymno, Crete

History

April 2024

7 min read

A Call to Adventure

The Dive Site

The Junkers Ju-88: An Icon of WWII Aviation

Exploring Crete's Rich WWII Heritage

Conclusion

Ahoy, fellow ocean enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a thrilling journey back in time as we dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Mediterranean Sea to explore the captivating discovery of an intact World War II-era German Junkers Ju-88 airplane wreck in the enchanting waters of Rethymno, Crete!

Discovery

This bomber plane was only just discovered in April 2024. It's in relatively good condition, with parts of the fuselage, wings, and cockpit still intact despite around 82 years underwater.

This latest find is a thrilling development for historians, divers, and aviation archaeology enthusiasts, as it sheds light on the island's significant role during the Battle of Crete in 1941. For divers, the wreck also offers an exciting opportunity to explore history firsthand.

For those with a thirst for exploration and a passion for uncovering the secrets of the past, the airplane wreck in Rethymno beckons as a beacon of history waiting to be discovered. Whether you're an experienced diver seeking a new challenge or an avid history buff, this underwater marvel promises an unforgettable journey.

In the depths of the Mediterranean Sea lies a treasure trove of history, waiting to be explored.

The Junkers Ju-88 airplane is situated just 2 miles from the shore, making this dive site only accessible by boat. It lies in the sand, in around 20m of water.

The dive consists of dropping directly down on the airplane, with nothing else around of much interest. It's no wonder it's taken so long to discover.

What to Look For

The cockpit contains a machine gun in extraordinary condition. Blue nudibranchs are also commonly found in and around the wreck — keep your eyes peeled!

The wreck's remains, including parts of the fuselage, wings, and engines, are well-preserved. The cockpit, while partially damaged, is still visible, allowing divers to explore the plane's structure and get a glimpse of the instruments that once guided the aircraft.

Given the historical significance of the site, divers are encouraged to practice responsible diving, avoiding direct contact with the wreck to help preserve this important artifact.

The Junkers Ju-88 was one of the most widely used aircraft in the German Luftwaffe during World War II. Known for its adaptability, the Ju-88 was employed in bombing, reconnaissance, and even as a night fighter.

Introduced in 1939, its speed, range, and payload capacity made it a key tool in many campaigns, including the Mediterranean battles where Crete became a significant battleground.

Battle of Crete

During the Battle of Crete in May 1941, the Luftwaffe played a crucial role supporting German paratroopers. The Ju-88 was instrumental in these operations, conducting bombing raids and reconnaissance missions to weaken Allied positions.

It is believed that this particular plane went down over a year after the Battle of Crete due to mechanical failure. It contained a crew of three — two were killed or drowned, while the third managed to open a parachute and was saved by a local islander.

Crete has become a significant destination for those interested in WWII history, with numerous wrecks found both on land and underwater. The Junkers Ju-88 wreck adds to this legacy, joining other aircraft and naval wrecks in the waters around the island.

The Ju-88 wreck serves as a powerful reminder of the island's turbulent past and its importance during World War II. Each new discovery helps us better understand the scale of the conflict.

The discovery of the Junkers Ju-88 wreck off the coast of Rethymno is another reminder of Crete's critical role in World War II. This find not only adds to our understanding of the Battle of Crete but also enriches the island's legacy as a treasure trove of WWII history.

As more details about the wreck emerge, we can look forward to further revelations about its role in the war and the men who flew it.

For now, this discovery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of World War II and Crete's pivotal place in it.

Explore More of Crete's Underwater World

Fascinated by Crete's underwater history? Explore our dive sites including shipwrecks and caves, or discover the incredible marine life that inhabits these waters today.

Diving Experiences

Explore Crete's best dive sites with us

Marine Archaeology

Read about more WWII wrecks in Crete

Night Diving in Crete: Exploring the Underwater World After Dark

Tips

August 2025

8 min read

Mastering Night Dives

The Thrill of the Unknown

What You'll Encounter

Ready for Your Nocturnal Adventure?

Diving enthusiasts, are you ready to immerse yourself in the mystical underwater realm? Night dives offer a captivating adventure like no other, and the mesmerizing waters of Chania, Almyrida beckon the daring souls to explore the enchanting beauty hidden beneath the surface.

In the realm of scuba diving, mastering night dives is an art that unveils a different perspective of marine life. With the guidance of experienced instructors and the right gear, diving into the darkness becomes a thrilling experience that challenges your senses.

The serenity of the night ocean, illuminated by your torchlight, reveals a world of nocturnal creatures and vibrant colors that truly come alive when the sun sets.

Getting Started

Night diving requires an Advanced Open Water certification or a Night Diver Specialty. A reliable primary torch and a backup light are essential gear for every night dive.

Chania, a charming coastal town in Crete, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity. The coastal village of Almyrida, nestled within Chania, offers a perfect gateway to the mesmerizing world below the waves.

Picture yourself descending into the cool embrace of the ocean as the darkness envelops you. The thrill of the unknown, the rush of excitement as you encounter fascinating marine life – these are the moments that make night dives truly unforgettable.

Night diving in Almyrida unveils a hidden world — from colorful corals to elusive octopuses, every dive promises a new discovery.

With the gentle glow of your torch cutting through the darkness, the underwater world reveals its secrets in a whole new light. The dance of shadows, the shimmering reflections, and the nocturnal creatures going about their nightly rituals create a symphony of sights.

Night diving in Almyrida offers encounters with creatures that are rarely seen during the day. Octopuses emerge from their dens to hunt, their color-changing abilities on full display.

Moray eels become more active, their serpentine bodies gliding through the darkness. Shrimp and lobsters venture out, their eyes glowing red in your torchlight.

Bioluminescence

Wave your hand through the water and watch as tiny organisms light up like underwater fireflies. It's a natural light show that must be seen to be believed — and Almyrida's waters are known for this magical phenomenon.

Nocturnal Marine Life

Octopuses: Emerge from hiding to hunt, displaying incredible camouflage abilities

Moray Eels: More active at night, often seen hunting among the rocks

Cuttlefish: Mesmerizing color changes visible in torchlight

Lobsters & Shrimp: Eyes glow red when illuminated

Bioluminescent Plankton: Create magical light displays with movement

Are you ready to embark on this nocturnal escapade beneath the waves? Let the allure of night dives in Chania, Almyrida, draw you into a world of enchantment and fascination!

Let the magic of the night ocean captivate your senses and awaken the explorer within you. Experience the thrill of night dives in Chania, Almyrida – where adventure knows no bounds.

Book Your Night Dive

Ready to experience the underwater world after dark? Our experienced instructors will guide you through this incredible adventure.

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Scuba Diving in Chania: Uncover The Best Dive Sites and Tips

Guides

2025

10 min read

Best Time To Dive

Night Diving In Chania

Conservation

Diving Experiences In Chania

Where To Stay In Chania?

Scuba Diving In Crete

Ombros Gialos

Elephant Cave

The Shore Dives

The Canyon

The Shipwrecks

Are you a diving enthusiast looking for the next underwater adventure? Chania has been voted the best place to dive in Crete. Dive into the crystal clear waters this magnificent island has to offer, a treasure trove of diving opportunities waiting to be explored.

In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best scuba diving spots in Chania, uncovering the beauty that lies beneath the surface.

Chania, a charming town on the northwest coast of Crete, is not only known for its picturesque landscapes but also for its exceptional diving sites. From colorful reefs to ancient shipwrecks, Chania offers a diverse range of dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Why Chania?

Chania has been consistently voted the best diving destination in Crete, thanks to its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and unique underwater landscapes including caves, canyons, and shipwrecks.

A brand-new diving park in Apokoronas is currently being created — and it's set to become one of the most impressive dive destinations in Greece.

Tugboat Nestor is the latest addition, scuttled on April 2nd, 2025.

One of the most famous dive sites in Chania, Elephant Cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites. When discovered, this cave contained the bones of 3 ancient elephants.

Only a leg bone and molar teeth remain, the rest having been excavated. With its shallow depth, wide entry and breathable air inside, it's an excellent entry into cave diving.

Elephant Cave is ideal for beginners interested in cave diving — the shallow depth and wide entry make it one of the safest cave experiences in Greece.

You don't need to go from a boat to enjoy the beauty Chania has to offer. You have extraordinary places accessible from shore.

My personal favorite is a protected shore dive that goes from Almyrida, named Koutalas. This dive site acts as a nursery and also attracts schools of fish during the summertime.

If you enjoy a vibrant shallow dive where you can enjoy the marine life, this is my top choice!

The Canyon is another popular dive site, characterized by its dramatic underwater landscapes. Divers can swim through narrow passages and explore the walls of the canyon, which are covered in sponges and small corals.

The depth of the canyon provides opportunities for both shallow and deep dives, making it suitable for divers of different experience levels.

These underwater sites offer divers and historians a unique opportunity to explore the maritime legacy and historical events that shaped the region.

The most notable among them is the wreck of the Minnewaska, a 2000 person capacity British ocean liner. It was re-purposed as a carrier ship in WWI, where it hit a mine on its journey from Egypt to Santorini, carrying 1600 soldiers at the time.

Did You Know?

The SS Minnewaska III was one of the largest passenger liners of its era. Today it rests at a depth accessible to recreational divers, making it one of the most historically significant wreck dives in Greece.

The diving season in Chania typically runs from May to October, when water temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C.

During this period, visibility is excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the underwater beauty. The summer months, in particular, are ideal for diving, with calm seas and warm, pleasant weather.

Best Months

June through September offers the warmest water (24–28°C) and calmest conditions. May and October are quieter with slightly cooler water but less crowded dive sites.

Night diving in Chania offers an extraordinary adventure, unveiling the hidden wonders of the underwater world after dark. As daylight fades, divers are introduced to a vibrant nocturnal ecosystem.

Creatures such as octopuses, lobsters, and cuttlefish emerge from their daytime hiding spots. The waters around Chania's reefs and caves become illuminated with bioluminescent plankton, creating a mesmerizing, star-like display.

Night diving in Chania not only provides a thrilling adventure but also offers a unique opportunity to observe marine ecosystems in a different light — an unforgettable experience for underwater enthusiasts.

Scuba diving in Chania offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking to explore the wonders of the underwater world. With its diverse marine life, captivating dive sites, and a strong emphasis on safety and conservation, Chania has established itself as a premier diving destination in the Mediterranean.

Whether you're a novice diver looking to take your first plunge or an experienced diver seeking new challenges, Chania's underwater realm promises an unforgettable experience.

Environmental conservation is a key aspect of diving in Chania. Divers are encouraged to follow responsible diving practices, such as avoiding contact with marine life and refraining from collecting souvenirs from the sea.

Local diving centers often collaborate with marine conservation organizations to promote sustainable diving practices and protect the underwater ecosystem.

We dive responsibly to preserve this underwater paradise for future generations.

Remember, the ocean is calling — will you answer? Dive into the depths of Chania and experience the magic of underwater exploration with Kefi Divers, your gateway to the wonders of scuba diving in the Mediterranean.

Capture the thrill, embrace the beauty, and immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime. Start your diving escapade in Chania today!

All Experiences Available In Chania

When visiting Chania, consider staying in the picturesque Old Town for a blend of historic charm and vibrant local culture, or near the Venetian harbor for stunning views and convenience.

Beach lovers might prefer accommodations in Nea Chora or Agii Apostoli, offering beautiful beaches close to the city center. For a more tranquil experience, explore surrounding areas like the scenic village of Kalyves or the serene Almyrida.

Each location offers unique experiences, ensuring a memorable stay in Chania and its surroundings.

View Our Accommodation Options

Other notable spots in Crete include the underwater ruins of Olous near Elounda, known for its submerged city walls, and the Messerschmitt wreck near Heraklion, a sunken World War II aircraft.

Additionally, the underwater caves of Agios Nikolaos offer a thrilling experience for advanced divers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Crete's diving centers provide excellent guidance and equipment.