Dive Into 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.
Apokoronas Diving Park at Ombros Gialos
The 60,000 m² park has two artificial wrecks and 37 habitat structures in place, but remains closed to recreational diving. Opening is expected for the start of summer 2027, subject to approval.
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: A Guide to Diving in Western Crete
Explore diving from Apokoronas to far western Chania, with Kefi guides to Elephant Cave, Koutalas and SS Minnewaska III.
Kefi Divers blog about scuba diving in Crete
diving blog article by Kefi Divers
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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The Ultimate Guide To Scuba Diving In Crete
Guides
October 2025
12 min read
The 6 Best Places For Scuba Diving In Crete
Night Diving
Conclusion
The Best Time To Dive
Conservation
Safety & Regulations
Where To Stay
How To Get To Crete
How To Get Around The Island
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and stunning coastline. With crystal-clear waters, diverse underwater landscapes and rich marine biodiversity, it offers an abundance of scuba diving opportunities for every level.
Elounda, located on the northeastern coast of Crete, is famous for its luxurious resorts and stunning scenery. This area offers some of the best diving experiences on the island, with a mix of shallow reefs, ancient ruins, and deeper drop-offs.
The Sunken City of Olous: Just off the coast lies the remains of the ancient city of Olous — perfect for beginners and snorkelers with its shallow depth and fascinating ruins.
The Reef of Elounda: A diverse ecosystem teeming with marine life, ideal for intermediate and advanced divers.
Elounda's waters are home to grouper, barracuda, moray eels, and the rare Mediterranean monk seal. The vibrant coral reefs and underwater meadows provide a perfect habitat for these species.
Agia Pelagia is a picturesque fishing village on the northern coast of Crete. It boasts several protected coves and bays, making it a great spot for diving.
Mononaftis Reef: Known for its dramatic underwater landscapes — steep walls, caves, and overhangs. Fantastic for experienced divers.
Blue Cave: Accessible only by diving, offering stunning blue hues and fascinating rock formations.
The waters are crystal clear with excellent visibility. Expect damselfish, wrasse, sea bream, sea anemones and sponges.
Chania, on the western side of Crete, is known for its Venetian harbor, charming old town, and beautiful beaches. The underwater landscape is just as captivating.
Ombros Gialos: home to the Apokoronas Diving Park, whose wrecks and artificial reefs are already in place while the park awaits its official opening.
Elephant Cave: One of the most famous dive sites in Chania, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites. When discovered, this cave contained the bones of 3 ancient elephants.
Shipwrecks: The most notable is the wreck of the Minnewaska, a 2000-person capacity British ocean liner repurposed as a carrier ship in WWI.
Dive With Us
Get in touch directly if you'd like to go scuba diving in Chania! We offer both beginner experiences and certified diver fun dives.
Chania's dive sites are rich in marine biodiversity — octopuses, groupers, scorpionfish, and even the occasional loggerhead sea turtle. The rocky reefs and underwater caves provide ample hiding spots.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is not only a bustling city with rich history but also a great base for exploring some of the island's best dive sites.
The Messerschmitt Wreck: This German WWII aircraft at 25 meters is one of the most popular wreck dives in Crete, attracting a variety of fish species.
Dia Island: A short boat ride from Heraklion, offering pristine dive sites with excellent visibility — reefs, walls, and caverns.
Heraklion's waters teem with colorful fish, nudibranchs, and large pelagic species. The underwater rock formations house spiny lobsters and moray eels.
Situated between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno is known for its well-preserved old town and long sandy beaches. The waters offer a range of diving experiences.
The Wall of Rethymno: A vertical drop-off covered in vibrant corals and sponges — starts at 10m and drops to over 30m. Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.
Stavros Reef: A great site for beginners, with shallow waters and easy shore access.
Diverse marine species including cuttlefish, parrotfish, and the occasional seahorse. The rocky reefs and underwater meadows provide a rich habitat.
Sitia, on the eastern tip of Crete, is a quieter, less touristy area offering pristine dive sites and untouched natural beauty.
Mochlos: Underwater rock formations and caves providing a thrilling dive experience with clear waters and diverse marine life.
The Caves of Sitia: A network of underwater caves and tunnels — perfect for experienced divers seeking adventure.
Sitia's remote location means relatively undisturbed waters — wrasse, damselfish, and the occasional barracuda.
Night diving in Crete reveals a completely different side of the underwater world. As the sun sets, nocturnal creatures like octopuses, moray eels, and bioluminescent plankton create a magical underwater spectacle.
Equipped with powerful dive lights, divers navigate through the darkness, discovering hidden treasures and the vibrant activity of Crete's underwater nightlife.
Scuba diving in Crete is a must for any underwater enthusiast. The island boasts vibrant coral reefs, dramatic caves, and historic shipwrecks, offering something for all experience levels.
Combining natural beauty with rich history, diving in Crete promises unforgettable underwater exploration. Crete's numerous diving centers ensure safe and enjoyable experiences with expert guidance.
The best diving conditions are from late spring to early autumn — May to October.
Best Months
June through September offers the warmest water temperatures (24-27°C) and best visibility. May and October are quieter with fewer crowds and still excellent conditions.
Scuba diving conservation in Crete is a growing focus, aimed at preserving the island's rich marine ecosystems. Numerous initiatives protect delicate coral reefs, seagrass beds, and endangered species like the Mediterranean monk seal and loggerhead sea turtle.
Eco-Friendly Diving
Dive centers in Crete actively participate in underwater clean-ups, reef monitoring, and educational programs. By diving responsibly, you contribute to the long-term health of these precious environments.
Safety is paramount when diving in Crete. Always dive with a certified dive center and follow your instructor's guidelines.
For a blend of culture and nightlife, stay in Heraklion. Rethymno offers charming Venetian architecture, perfect for history enthusiasts. Chania, with its picturesque Old Town, is ideal for a romantic getaway.
For a tranquil beach experience, consider Elounda or Agios Nikolaos — known for luxurious resorts and stunning coastal views.
Getting to Crete is straightforward with multiple options:
Renting a car is the best way to explore Crete's diverse landscapes at your own pace. Major cities have car rental services, and roads are generally well-maintained.
Transport Tips
Local buses connect major towns and tourist areas for a budget-friendly option. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer journeys. Consider ferries or organized tours for reaching more remote destinations.
Plan Your Diving Holiday in Crete
Whether you're a beginner or certified diver, we have the perfect experience for you. Book your dive today and discover Crete's underwater wonders.
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Marine Archaeology in Crete: Exploring Wartime Wrecks
History
2025
6 min read
British Landing Craft
SS Minnewaska III
Dive Into History
Crete’s waters hold remains from more than one conflict. This guide explains Kefi Divers’ supporting role in archaeological fieldwork at a Second World War British Landing Craft, then turns to SS Minnewaska III, a First World War wreck that we regularly visit with appropriately qualified certified divers.
Marine Archaeology Project
Recreational Wreck Dive
Off western Crete
The wreck has been associated with a British Tank Landing Craft Mk I and the A6/A20 identification. It may relate to the 1941 evacuation of Allied forces from Crete, but the archaeological evidence available to Kefi does not conclusively establish its precise identity.
Its loss may be connected with the 1941 evacuation period, but its precise identity and loss history remain uncertain unless established conclusively by the archaeological research.
During the project, marine archaeologist Fanis advised our team that two unexploded bombs are believed to remain at the site. We present this as his professional advice to us, not as an independently verified finding.
Kefi’s Supporting Role
Kefi Divers assisted Fanis, the marine archaeologist working on the project, with fieldwork: helping to locate and dive the wreck, underwater photography and video, mapping and measurements, plus boat and diving support. Kefi did not lead the archaeological project, and the British Landing Craft is not a recreational dive offered by Kefi Divers.
Souda Bay
Built by Harland & Wolff in Belfast; launched in 1908
Approximately 183m long; 14,317 GRT
Transatlantic passenger liner; troop transport from 1915
Requisitioned by the British Government in 1915, Minnewaska transported Australian troops during the Gallipoli campaign.
On 29 November 1916, Minnewaska struck a mine at the entrance to Souda Bay. Captain Gates brought the damaged vessel into shallow water, and no loss of life was recorded.
The vessel was later salvaged and broken up in situ. Its concentrated remains include hull sections and exposed ribs; it is not intact and has no penetration routes.
These two wrecks belong here for different reasons: the British Landing Craft reflects archaeological fieldwork that Kefi supported, while SS Minnewaska III is a historical wreck that Kefi regularly visits with appropriately qualified certified divers.
Plan Your Visit
For recreational wreck diving, Minnewaska lies at approximately 12–19m and can suit Open Water divers when appropriately guided and comfortable with conditions. The British Landing Craft is not part of Kefi Divers’ recreational dive programme.
Interested in exploring Crete's underwater heritage? Check out our dive experiences or explore our dive sites to plan your next adventure.
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