Itinerary Summary
The trip connects through Athens to Crete for diving around Hersonissos, including an optional 3-day PADI Open Water course and wreck dives, then a fast ferry or flight to Paros for windsurfing, stand…
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Athens to Crete, then a dive-centre check-in
10:00
3h
Athens connection and flight to Crete
Clear immigration at Athens and fly to Heraklion, then transfer to the coast. Confirm with the dive centre that your bags will not be separated from you at the connection.
📍 Athens to Crete
15:00
1.5h
Dive centre paperwork and kit fitting
Meet your instructor, sign the medical forms and have a wetsuit and BCD fitted for the next day's dives. Bring your certification card and logbook; rentals are usually included in course prices.
📍 Heraklion
20:00
2h
Harbour dinner in Heraklion
Eat grilled fish and mezedes near the Venetian harbour, keeping the meal light before a morning on the boat. Ask the restaurant to note the price per kilo before cooking.
📍 Heraklion
💡 Pro Tip: Fly into Athens and connect to Chania or Heraklion; the domestic leg takes 45 minutes. Certified divers need a PADI or equivalent card and a logbook, and dive centres usually require a signed medical declaration, so check before flying. Greece is UTC+2 (UTC+3 from late March to late October) and entry rules depend on your passport, so read the Greece visa section.
Days 2-7 are member-only
Members get the complete day-by-day plan with timing, transport and on-the-ground tips.
Budget Breakdown
AccommodationUS$71035%
Beach hotels and dive-resort lodges, 6 nights
Food & DiningUS$40020%
Fresh fish, tavernas and beach bars
Remaining cost categories are member-only
Members see the full breakdown for flights, hotels, food, tickets and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a PADI certificate to scuba dive in Crete on this trip?+
Guided dives require at least PADI Open Water or an equivalent certification, plus a medical questionnaire and logbook. If you are not certified, book the multi-day Open Water course at the start of the trip, and leave 18-24 hours before your flight after the final dive.
When is the best time for diving and windsurfing in the Greek islands?+
June to September offers water around 22-26°C and the clearest visibility. July and August bring the strongest meltemi wind, which is ideal for windsurfing on Paros but can disrupt ferries. Late June and September are a good compromise for both sports with fewer crowds.
How do I move dive gear between Crete, Paros and Santorini?+
Fast ferries connect the islands, but luggage space is limited in summer, so check weight and size allowances when booking. Rinse and fully dry gear before packing to avoid equipment checks, carry certification cards and a dive log, and leave a buffer day in case wind cancels a sailing.
What should I budget for a 7-day Greek diving and watersports holiday?+
Comfort-level costs run about $1,640-2,390 (roughly €1,430-2,080) per person excluding international flights. That covers hotels, ferries and daily meals. Dive packages, the Open Water course, equipment rental and windsurfing lessons are usually charged separately, so request a full quote.
Attractions in This Guide
Guide at a Glance
- Duration: 7 days
- Budget: Comfort · approx. $1,640–2,390 (≈ €1,430–2,080), excl. int'l flights
- Difficulty: moderate
- Best for: Diving & Water Sports
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