Try Scuba in Crete Free Certification & Photos (Beginners)

Thinking about trying scuba diving but not sure where to start? We’ve reviewed the Try Scuba in Crete tour offered by Chania Diving Center, and it promises a friendly, safe, and memorable introduction to the underwater world. Perfect for absolute beginners, this three-hour experience combines basic training, a guided dive, and plenty of chances to snap photos of your adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention and clear safety instructions. Second, the beautiful, calm waters around Crete make for an ideal first dive, especially for those new to the sport. The only caveat? It’s a quick introduction—so if you’re hungry to explore longer or want certification, this is just a taste. It’s best suited for travelers who want a safe, engaging, and hassle-free way to see what scuba is all about without committing to a full certification.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners with no prior experience needed.
• Includes all necessary equipment and insurance, making it a hassle-free option.
• Personalized small-group instruction maximizes safety and fun.
• Up to 45 minutes underwater at a maximum depth of 10 meters (32 feet).
• Photos included to capture your first underwater moments.
• Pickup offered from certain locations, though not all areas are included.

An Overview of the Crete Try Scuba Tour

This tour offers an excellent way for complete novices to experience the magic of breathing underwater for the first time. The entire session lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable and exciting activity that doesn’t eat up your whole day. The package includes professional instruction, high-quality equipment, insurance, snacks, and photos—a good value considering the comprehensive nature of the experience.

The meeting point is at Agiou Onoufriou 10b in Kounoupidiana, near Chania, with a convenient pickup service available. The tour’s small-group size—capped at 15 participants—ensures that everyone receives sufficient attention and guidance, which is vital for nervous first-timers or those unsure about being in the water.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The Beginning: Safety and Theory

Your adventure starts with a straightforward briefing. The instructors are clear, patient, and approachable, making sure everyone understands the basics of scuba gear, safety procedures, and what to expect during the dive. Several reviews highlight the patience and good communication of the guides, which helps ease pre-dive nerves.

Gear and Equipment

You’ll use high-quality scuba gear, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators. Everything is included in the price, and the staff are attentive to fit and comfort. Since you’re only in the water for around 45 minutes, the focus is on comfort and simplicity rather than technical complexity.

The Underwater Experience

Once suited up, you’ll head into the calm, clear waters around Crete—an ideal setting for first-time divers. You’ll dive to a maximum depth of 10 meters (32 feet), enough to see the underwater landscape without feeling overwhelmed. The water is described as warm and transparent, and the guided dive is relaxed, focusing on gentle exploration.

Photos and Recognition

A notable perk: you’ll receive free underwater photos, allowing you to relive your first breath underwater. You’ll also earn an official SSI Try Scuba recognition card, a great memento of your first underwater adventure.

Return and Snacks

After your dive, the group heads back to the starting point. Many reviews mention the friendly and professional guides who made the experience enjoyable, especially noting their ability to balance safety with fun. Snacks are provided, a thoughtful touch that helps you unwind after your underwater excursion.

What Travelers Say About This Experience

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating based on 49 reviews. Many mention the personalized attention from the guides and the stunning clarity of the water. One reviewer praised the “perfect ratio” of instructors for a family group, highlighting how well the guides managed safety and fun simultaneously.

Several travelers appreciated the patience and clarity of instructions, especially those who were nervous at first. One noted that their daughter was able to dive confidently for the first time, which speaks to the effectiveness of the guiding staff.

Others appreciated the convenience, from pickup services to the inclusion of photos and insurance—elements that make the experience feel polished and trustworthy. However, some reviews hinted at the water not being teeming with sea life, which is typical for beginner dives in calm, shallow areas.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour is priced at about $130 per person, representing good value considering the gear, instruction, photos, insurance, and snacks included. The pickup service is offered but only from specific locations, so check whether your accommodation is within reach. You’ll need to bring your swimwear and towels, but all the safety gear and professional guidance are covered.

The activity is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate. It’s worth noting that those who cannot swim might find this experience less suitable, but overall, the emphasis on safety and professional supervision makes it accessible for many.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers, families with children (over a certain age), couples, or friends looking for a unique way to enjoy Crete’s waters. It’s especially ideal if you want a low-pressure introduction — no certification required — and are happy with a brief, guided exposure to the underwater world.

It also suits cruise passengers, thanks to the easy logistics and short duration. If you’re considering whether scuba is for you, this is an excellent way to test the waters without a long-term commitment.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Choice for You?

If you’re seeking a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized way to try scuba diving, this Crete tour ticks all the boxes. The small group size and professional guides ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters, the opportunity to take underwater photos, and the sense of achievement in breathing underwater for the first time.

While it’s not a full certification or a lengthy dive, it’s a fantastic entry point into the sport that might inspire you to pursue further training later on. Plus, it’s an activity that offers a nice mix of learning and fun in a beautiful setting.

This tour offers great value for its comprehensive package and friendly, knowledgeable staff. It’s best suited for those who want a light, safe, and engaging introduction to the underwater world of Crete.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-swimmers?
While most participants can participate, it’s not recommended for people who do not know how to swim, as comfort in water is important.

How long does the dive last?
The underwater component lasts up to 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy and explore.

Are photos included?
Yes, you’ll receive free underwater photos of your experience, a nice keepsake.

What is the maximum depth?
You will dive to a maximum of 10 meters (32 feet), ideal for beginners.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered, but only from certain locations. Confirm whether your accommodation is covered before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit and towel; all diving equipment, insurance, and snacks are included.

Can I participate if I’m nervous about water?
The professionalism of the instructors and small group setting help ease nerves, but individual comfort varies.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. The experience requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable.

To sum it up, the Try Scuba tour in Crete offered by Chania Diving Center is a well-organized, friendly, and accessible introduction to the underwater world. It’s an excellent choice for anyone curious about diving but hesitant to commit to full certification. With professional guides, clear safety instructions, and beautiful waters, it promises a safe and memorable first experience that may just inspire a lifelong love for exploring beneath the waves.