Here at Kefi Divers we keep our group sizes to a minimum. This allows us to provide a unique and personalized dive for everyone that chooses us. We wanted to create something special here in Chania. Our protected dive site contains stunning marine life, offering you the chance to discover the excellent visibility that the crystal clear Cretan water offers. The dive centre consists of two instructors that have extensive knowledge of the marine life & dive sites in Almyrida, Chania, Crete. Our enthusiasm for scuba diving is what makes us special, diving isn't only our job, it is our passion.

PADI stands for the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, and it is the world's leading scuba diver training organization. At Kefi Divers, we are affiliated with PADI because it sets the industry standard for quality, safety, and professionalism in the world of scuba diving. PADI courses and certifications are recognized globally, giving our divers the assurance that they are receiving top-notch training and education. As a PADI Dive Center, we adhere to PADI's high standards for diver training, equipment, and customer service, ensuring that all our customers have a safe and enjoyable diving experience. Our partnership with PADI reflects our commitment to providing the best possible diving experiences for our customers while prioritizing their safety and the protection of the underwater environment.

Pick-up service available for an additional fee (Complimentary for groups of 4 or more)

We are located in Almyrida, a short 20 minute drive from Chania. Driving in from Kalyves, we are on the main road, one the first shops on the right as you enter Almyrida. Just before the Pear Tree supermarket.

There is plenty of free parking located near the dive centre in Almyrida, including a free carpark located on the beachfront, less than a 5 minute walk away.

Yes, we easily accessible by bus. We are located just 200m away from the main bus stop in Almyrida.

Yes, with our Try Dive program, also known as PADI Discover Scuba Diving (DSD). It allows our professional instructors to take you on a journey of a lifetime. The only prerequisites are that you are comfortable in the water and can swim.

You can start scuba diving at the age of 8. At the age of 10 you can complete your first certification (PADI's Junior Open Water Course), with a maximum depth of 12m. At the age of 12 you can get the full certification (PADI's Open Water Course), which allows you to dive to a depth of 18m. There is no difference between the 2 courses except the depth restriction. Once a 'Junior Open Water Diver' passes the age of 12 they can automatically go the new depth of 18m.

Crete offers an abundance of scuba diving opportunities, with its crystal-clear waters, diverse underwater landscapes and rich marine biodiversity. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins in Elounda, diving through underwater caves in Agia Pelagia, or investigating wrecks in Chania and Heraklion, there's something for every diver on this enchanting island. Here's an in-depth look at some of best spots. https://www.kefidivers.com/post/the-ultimate-guide-to-scuba-diving-in-crete

During the summer, with its warm Mediterranean waters and stunning underwater scenery, Crete is a must-visit destination for any scuba diving enthusiast. This article below gives you an entire overview on the water temperature, weather, crowds and marine life that you can expect at different times in the year. https://www.kefidivers.com/post/the-ultimate-guide-to-scuba-diving-in-crete

Yes. One common question to be asked is if you can dive with the glasses? Unfortunately not, this is not possible underneath the mask, but you do have some options. The most common would be to wear contact lenses. The only times that these would be an issue is when there's a pressure change in your mask (e.g. clearing your mask of water). If this happens all you need to do is close your eyes when clearing the mask. Another option would be to get a prescription mask, which has your prescription lens built into the mask. It's a little more expensive, but would be the most comfortable way of diving. The final option would be to dive without anything, although this would be very dependent on how much you can see without your glasses. If you can make it through the day without them, then you should also have no issue diving without them.

The most common entry level course is 'PADI Open Water Scuba Diver'. It consists of theory, that is now done through PADI's digital platform & 3 days of diving. Your first day will be in the swimming pool, followed by 2 days consisting of 4 training dives. If you do not have the time, the 'PADI Scuba Diver Course' is a great way of getting started. You can upgrade to the 'Open Water Course' at anytime, which requires a little bit more training in the swimming pool and 2 more dives. The 'Scuba Diver Course' consists of theory, 1 day in the swimming pool and 2 training dives on the 2nd day.

Yes. If you enjoyed your 'Discover Scuba Diving (DSD)', you will be glad to know it counts towards your 'Open Water Course (OWC)'. It counts towards your swimming pool session and as your first dive on your OWC. We offer a discount for anyone wanting to proceed onto the OWC, get in touch for more details.

'PADI's Advanced Open Water Diver (AOW)' course is completed over the space of 2-3 days. Similar to 'PADI's Open Water Course (OWC)', it consists of online learning on their digital platform & 5 training dives done over 2-3 days.

PADI, or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, is the world's leading scuba diving training organization. PADI dive centers offer the highest level of diver education and customer service. Choosing a PADI certified dive center like Kefi Divers guarantees a safe and enjoyable diving experience with a focus on marine conservation and environmental responsibility.

Yes, although, if you have not dived in a while it is recommended you undertake a 'Refresher Dive' or the 'Reactivate Course'. This is instructor led to get you comfortable and confident in the water again. I like to compare scuba diving to riding a bike. It is not something you forgot but you might be a little wobbly if it has been some time.

No, your scuba diving qualification will last for life. Have you had a break from diving? Check out the next FAQ for details on how to get back in the water 'Can I still scuba dive if I have not been diving in a while?'

This is dependent on your qualification and what you would like to do/see here in Crete. These are PADI's maximum depths for each course, different organisations will vary a little bit. Open Water Divers - Maximum depth 18m Advanced Open Water Divers - Maximum depth 30m Deep Diver Specialty - Maximum depth 40m We have a dive site for everyone, if you would like to stay shallow with the vibrant life, we can do that. If you like going deep, we can also cater for this.

There is a no fly time after scuba diving, due to the increased risk of Decompression Sickness (DCS) while flying. It is recommended that you do not fly for 12 hours, if you have completed 1 dive. If you have done 2 dives, you should not fly for at least 18 hours.

Safety rules for scuba diving are crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience underwater. First, always dive with a buddy to provide mutual assistance if needed. Proper training and certification from a recognized diving organization are essential to understand the equipment, techniques, and emergency procedures. Conduct a thorough pre-dive equipment check to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Monitor your air supply and depth regularly, and ascend slowly to avoid decompression sickness. Stay within your training limits and avoid diving in adverse weather conditions. Lastly, stay physically fit and avoid diving if you're feeling unwell. We have a range of courses, including specialty courses, to help improve your safety. Develop your practical knowledge and diving skills under supervision. Allowing you to better plan, organise and execute dives in the future.

In an underwater emergency, stay calm and signal your buddy for help. If you encounter equipment failure, use your buddy's alternate air source. For entanglement or disorientation, pause and carefully free yourself, or signal for assistance. If you run low on air, make a controlled ascent, exhaling steadily to prevent lung over-expansion. Always follow the emergency procedures from your training to manage the situation effectively. If you feel you need practice with any of these skills, we can get you comfortable with them again with our:

Follow these steps: Stop and Look Around: Pause and take a moment to look around in all directions, including above and below you. Often, your buddy may be nearby but out of your immediate line of sight. Ascend Slightly: If you don't see your buddy, ascend a few feet to get a better view of the surrounding area. Be careful not to ascend too quickly to avoid decompression issues. Look for Bubbles: Search for your buddy’s air bubbles, which can help you locate them. Stay in One Place Briefly: Remain in one place for no more than a minute, as your buddy might be doing the same to try and locate you. Ascend to Surface Safely: If you still cannot find your buddy, make a slow and controlled ascent to the surface while performing a safety stop if necessary. Signal for Help: Once at the surface, inflate your buoyancy control device (BCD) to stay afloat, look for your buddy, and signal for help if needed. Follow Pre-Dive Plan: Always adhere to the pre-dive plan discussed with your buddy, which typically includes a procedure for reuniting if separated.

Managing common diving problems, such as equalizing pressure, is essential for a safe dive. To equalize pressure in your ears, use techniques like swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver, which involves gently blowing while pinching your nose and keeping your mouth closed. Begin equalizing before you feel discomfort and continue frequently during descent. If you encounter a mask squeeze, exhale gently through your nose to equalize the pressure inside the mask. Always ascend slowly and stop if you feel any discomfort, allowing time for your body to adjust to the changing pressure. Regular practice and adherence to these techniques can help prevent pressure-related issues. Buoyancy control is essential to help prevent any problems that might occur, allowing you to descend at a controlled pace.

Decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, form bubbles in the body due to rapid pressure changes during ascent. Symptoms can range from joint pain and dizziness to more severe issues like paralysis or death. To avoid decompression sickness, always ascend slowly and perform safety stops to allow gases to safely dissipate. Follow dive tables or dive computer guidelines to manage your dive time and depth properly. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol before diving, and never dive if you're feeling unwell. Proper training and adherence to safe diving practices are key to preventing decompression sickness. You will gain a deeper understanding of this with:

Diving responsibly and protecting the marine environment begins with respecting natural habitats and marine life. Choose reputable dive operators committed to sustainable practices and marine conservation. Practice buoyancy control to avoid damaging delicate corals and marine organisms. Avoid touching or disturbing marine life, and never feed or chase animals underwater. Reduce your impact by minimizing underwater photography and using environmentally friendly sunscreen. Dispose of waste properly, both underwater and onshore, and participate in beach and underwater clean-up activities. Educate yourself and others about marine conservation issues and support initiatives that promote ocean health. By diving responsibly, we can contribute to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans for future generations. Help protect our environment by participating in our Peak Performance Buoyancy (PPB) course today!

Divers play a crucial role in marine conservation through their direct interaction with underwater ecosystems. By observing and documenting marine life, divers contribute valuable data to scientific research and monitoring efforts. They can act as advocates for marine conservation by raising awareness about environmental issues, such as pollution and habitat destruction. Divers also support sustainable tourism practices by choosing operators committed to conservation and responsible diving practices. Additionally, divers often participate in coral restoration projects, marine clean-ups, and educational outreach programs to promote the protection and preservation of underwater ecosystems. Through these efforts, divers contribute significantly to the conservation and sustainable management of marine resources worldwide.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are crucial for several reasons in safeguarding marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Firstly, they provide sanctuaries where marine species can thrive without the pressures of human activities like overfishing or habitat destruction. By protecting habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, MPAs help maintain biodiversity and support healthy fish populations, which in turn benefits fisheries outside the protected areas through spillover effects. MPAs also serve as research and monitoring sites, providing scientists with valuable data on marine ecology and climate change impacts. Additionally, they offer recreational and educational opportunities for people to appreciate and learn about marine environments while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Ultimately, MPAs play a vital role in conserving marine resources for future generations and ensuring the resilience of ecosystems in the face of environmental challenges.

Yes, Crete hosts several marine protected areas (MPAs) that are important for conserving marine biodiversity and habitats: Chrissi Island Marine Park: Located south of Crete, Chrissi Island is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The marine park around Chrissi Island protects rich underwater ecosystems, including seagrass meadows and diverse marine life. Gavdos Island Marine Park: Gavdos is the southernmost Greek island and its surrounding waters are part of a protected marine park. The area supports a variety of marine species and habitats, including seagrass beds and rocky reefs. Paximadia Islands Marine Park: These small islands off the southern coast of Crete are included in a marine protected area. The waters around Paximadia Islands are important for marine biodiversity and are protected to conserve the natural environment.

In Chania, Crete, there are several marine protected areas (MPAs) and areas of ecological significance: Gramvousa Peninsula and Balos Lagoon: While primarily known for its stunning landscapes, the waters around Gramvousa Peninsula and Balos Lagoon are part of the Natura 2000 network. This designation aims to protect the diverse marine life and habitats, including seagrass meadows and fish species. Elafonissi Beach and Cape Spatha: These areas are also part of the Natura 2000 network, focusing on conserving the unique marine ecosystems and biodiversity found along the coastlines and underwater environments. Falassarna Beach: While more renowned for its sandy beaches and historical sites, Falassarna also benefits from marine conservation efforts that protect the coastal waters and marine life in the region.

We have had the privilege of assisting in the mapping and research of 2 ship wrecks in northern Crete, the studies are currently being published. Any clean up initiatives or upcoming events will be added to our calendar.

Medical clearance is not always required for recreational scuba diving, A medical questionnaire will need to be filled out before diving. If you answer "yes" to any of the health-related questions, you will need a doctor's clearance to proceed with the course. While not always mandatory, obtaining medical clearance is a good practice to ensure you are physically fit for scuba diving and to avoid potential health risks underwater. If you are unsure of anything before, feel free to get in touch. You can find our contact details at the bottom of the page.

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, especially those affecting the heart, lungs, or ears, it is advisable to obtain medical clearance from a doctor, preferably one with experience in dive medicine.

The physical requirements for diving vary. Water conditions, depths, entry point, will all have different physical requirements. Generally speaking, scuba diving is a sport accessible to everyone. Here at Kefi Divers our instructors are also specialty instructors, both having achieved Adaptive Specialty Teaching Status. This course is designed for those with disabilities.

Scuba diving affects your body in several ways due to changes in pressure and the underwater environment. As you descend, increased pressure compresses air spaces in your body, necessitating frequent equalization of your ears and sinuses to prevent discomfort. Breathing compressed air at depth can lead to nitrogen absorption in your tissues, which requires a controlled ascent to avoid decompression sickness. The cooler underwater temperatures can also affect your body, making thermal protection important to prevent hypothermia. Additionally, physical exertion while diving can increase your heart rate and breathing, highlighting the need for good cardiovascular fitness. Proper training and adherence to diving safety protocols help manage these effects

All standard equipment is included. This includes your BCD, regulator, mask, fins, wetsuit and snorkel (optional for fun dives). Diving computers will be included in the courses, where you will be shown how to use them. Diving computers are not included for fun dives & are subject to availability, with a €10 surcharge..

Yes. All prices quoted on the website are including gear rental. Get in touch for prices if you have your own set of equipment.

You will be provided with a mask, fins and snorkel. If you would like, you also have the choice of either a full or short wetsuit.

Maintaining your diving equipment is essential for safety and performance. Here are key steps to ensure your gear remains in top condition: Rinse After Use: After diving, rinse all equipment thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Pay special attention to regulators, BCDs, masks, and fins. Dry Completely: Allow your gear to dry completely before storing it. Hang wetsuits and BCDs in a shaded, ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent damage. Inspect Regularly: Check your equipment regularly for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Inspect hoses, O-rings, straps, and buckles for cracks or deterioration. Service Annually: Get your regulators and dive computer serviced annually by a certified technician. This ensures they function properly and are safe to use. Store Properly: Store your diving equipment in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use gear bags or containers to protect items during transport. Replace Parts as Needed: Replace worn-out or damaged parts promptly. This includes O-rings, mouthpieces, straps, and fin buckles. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Follow manufacturer guidelines for maintenance and storage specific to each piece of equipment. This helps prolong their lifespan and ensures they perform reliably underwater. By following these maintenance practices, you can extend the life of your diving equipment and dive with confidence knowing that your gear is in optimal condition.

When buying scuba diving gear, consider the following factors to ensure you get equipment that suits your needs and enhances your diving experience: Fit and Comfort: Ensure the gear fits properly and feels comfortable. This is crucial for items like wetsuits, masks, and fins, as an improper fit can lead to discomfort or leaks underwater. Quality and Durability: Opt for high-quality gear that is durable and built to withstand the rigors of diving. Look for reputable brands known for their reliability and longevity. Functionality: Assess how well the gear performs its intended function. For regulators, check for ease of breathing and adjustable features. Masks should provide a good seal and wide field of vision. Maintenance Requirements: Consider the maintenance needs of the equipment. Some items may require more frequent servicing or replacement parts than others. Check if parts are readily available. Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) Features: Choose a BCD with features that match your diving style, such as integrated weight systems, number of D-rings for accessories, and lift capacity suitable for the types of dives you do. Regulator Performance: Evaluate regulators based on their breathing comfort, adjustment options, and environmental sealing (if diving in cold water). Dive Computer Features: Look for dive computers with features that meet your diving needs, such as air integration, multiple gas capability, decompression algorithms, and ease of navigation. Budget: While quality and functionality are important, consider your budget. Determine which gear items are priorities and where you can compromise without sacrificing safety or performance. Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from other divers and seek recommendations from instructors or experienced divers. Their insights can provide valuable information about gear performance and reliability. Warranty and Customer Support: Check the warranty coverage and availability of customer support from the manufacturer or retailer. This can be crucial for resolving issues or obtaining servicing. By carefully considering these factors and possibly trying out gear before purchasing, you can make informed decisions that ensure you get the best scuba diving equipment for your diving adventures.

Unfortunately, at this moment in time we do not offer any dive travel packages. We are in discussions and trying to make this happen in the future, so stay tuned!

There is nothing specific to Crete when it comes to divers, but here are the basics: Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements based on your nationality, though most visitors from Schengen countries typically do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Bring your scuba certification card and logbook as proof of diving qualifications, which dive centers may request. Consider travel insurance that covers diving activities for emergencies. Consider bringing personal items like your mask, snorkel, fins, and dive computer for comfort and familiarity. Finally, maintain good health for diving and carry necessary medications

While we do not currently have any partnerships with any hotels, with our extensive knowledge of the area we can help assist with any questions that you might have. Feel free to get in touch, contact details can be found at the bottom of the page.

You can book a diving course or trip with Kefi Divers in two convenient ways. Firstly, you can visit our website and browse through our available courses and trips. Once you've found a course or trip that interests you, you can easily book it online through our secure booking system. Alternatively, if you prefer a more personal touch, you can also get in touch directly with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. They can provide you with personalized recommendations, answer any questions you may have, and assist you with booking your diving experience. We strive to ensure that booking with Kefi Divers is as seamless and enjoyable as the diving experience itself.

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your scuba diving experience in advance with Kefi Divers. We are committed to providing personalized and high-quality service, and booking in advance allows us to better plan and customize your diving experience according to your preferences. By booking in advance, you can secure your preferred diving schedule and avoid potential disappointment due to limited availability. The further in advance you book, the better we can assist you in creating an unforgettable and seamless diving experience. We want to ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe experience with us, and booking in advance is the first step towards achieving that.

At Kefi Divers, we understand that plans can change. We do not require a deposit, and you only pay on the day of the activity. If you need to cancel, we kindly ask for as much notice as possible so that others may have the opportunity to take your place. As for refunds, since you do not pay until you arrive, it is free to cancel. Additionally, please note that we reserve the right to cancel activities due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, there is no charge to you. Our focus is on ensuring a positive and safe experience for all our customers.

At Kefi Divers, we accept both cash and card payments. Whether you prefer to pay with cash or use your card for convenience, we want to make the payment process as seamless as possible for our customers. Please note that for card payments, we accept major credit and debit cards for the services we offer, including scuba diving trips, equipment rentals, and diving courses. If you have any specific questions about payment methods, feel free to reach out to our team, and we'll be happy to assist you. Thank you for choosing Kefi Divers for your scuba diving adventures!

At Kefi Divers, we offer a range of diving courses and packages to cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The cost of our diving courses and packages varies depending on the specific activity you are interested in. You can find the individual prices for our courses and packages on our website, where we provide detailed information about each offering. We are committed to providing transparent pricing and ensuring that our customers have all the information they need to make an informed decision about their diving experience with us. If you have any specific questions about pricing or would like assistance in choosing the right course or package for you, our experienced team is always available to help. We believe that diving should be accessible to all, and we strive to offer competitive pricing while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality in all our services.

At Kefi Divers, we are proud to have two highly experienced and knowledgeable diving instructors on our team. Both of them are certified professionals with years of diving experience and a passion for sharing their expertise with others. Our instructors are dedicated to providing safe, enjoyable, and informative diving experiences, and they are committed to helping our clients develop their skills and confidence in the water. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, our instructors are available to guide you through every aspect of the diving process, from equipment familiarization to underwater navigation. We strive to ensure that all of our clients receive personalized attention and instruction, tailored to their individual needs and goals.

Our instructors at Kefi Divers are highly qualified and certified by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). They hold the prestigious certifications of PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) and PADI Staff Instructor. These qualifications ensure that our instructors have undergone rigorous training and have extensive experience in scuba diving, enabling them to provide top-notch instruction and guidance to our clients. Additionally, our instructors are passionate about sharing their love for the underwater world with others and are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism. At Kefi Divers, you can trust that you are in capable hands with our knowledgeable and skilled team of instructors.

Yes, at Kefi Divers, we understand the importance of feeling comfortable and confident with your scuba diving instructor. You can request a specific instructor either with the booking form on our website or by getting in touch directly. Simply let us know the name of the instructor you prefer, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Our team of experienced and certified instructors is dedicated to providing you with a safe, enjoyable, and personalized diving experience. Whether you have a favorite instructor or are looking for someone with specific expertise, we are committed to meeting your needs to ensure a memorable and rewarding diving adventure.

You can easily get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Kefi Divers. We have 2 phone numbers available, one where we have bilingual support for both French and English speakers, or by calling our secondary phone number for English speakers. Alternatively, you can also reach out to us via email and we will be more than happy to assist you with any questions or inquiries you may have about our scuba diving services, courses, or trips. We are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and are committed to helping you have an amazing experience with us at Kefi Divers.