Kefi Divers

Sea Bream

Silvery and abundant, sea bream are commonly spotted in schools around rocky reefs, adding movement and life to every dive. Several species inhabit Cretan waters, each with distinctive markings.

Habitat: Rocky reefs, seagrass, sandy areas

Best season: Year-round

In Crete

Various sea bream species including the two-banded bream (Diplodus vulgaris) and white bream are staples of Cretan marine life. They've been depicted in ancient Minoan frescoes, proving humans have admired them for over 3,500 years. Today they remain central to Greek fishing and cuisine.

Behaviour

Sea bream are diurnal and feed on algae, small invertebrates, and sea urchins. They often form mixed schools with other species. Their strong teeth can crack sea urchin shells with ease, making them important for reef health.

Diving tips

You'll encounter sea bream on virtually every dive in Crete. They're most active in morning hours. Schools often gather near cleaning stations where small wrasse remove parasites. Great subjects for underwater photography practice due to their abundance.