We all know that Greece has beautiful beaches, crystal-turquoise water and it is not for nothing that Greek beaches are among the best in the world. But few people know that Greece has an underwater world that leaves visitors speechless. A magnificent and fantastic world opens up under the water that boggles the imagination. Diving is a favorite hobby of millions of people. Diving in Greece is especially interesting - crystal clear and transparent water allows you to see every detail of the rich underwater world.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you can go diving in Greece, for this Danaos Travel has compiled a list of the best waters in Greece to dive into the underwater world.
1. Alónnisos
British magazine National Geographic has included the Greek island of Alonissos in its list of the 8 best eco-friendly destinations in the world for 2021, one of the reasons is the newly created Underwater Museum.
The ship transported thousands of wine amphorae from Halkidiki to the island of Skopelos. The famous Peristera shipwreck is located at a depth of 22 to 33 meters.Presumably, it sank during a storm around 425 BC and was found by a Greek fisherman in 1985.
All certified divers are provided with tablets with information on archaeological finds. Those who do not have the opportunity to take an underwater excursion will be able to join its virtual version.
2. Cave of Elephants (Crete)
The cave was discovered in 1999 by accident at an underwater smelter and is named after the finds of elephant bones belonging to the new species elephas chaniensis, deer bones.
The cave is 160 meters long and the entrance is 10 meters below sea level. The visitor can admire the magnificent decoration of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as see fossilized elephants and bones that have become part of the cave's rocks. To visit it, you need to dive.
3. Shinaria Beach (Crete)
There is a coral reef near Skinaria Beach, which is home to a wide variety of marine plants and animals. Some are shy, while others study divers with curiosity.
The crystal clear water allows you to see even what is at a distance of 40 meters. There are also small caves several meters long, through which you can swim.
Expect to see multi-colored fish of numerous species along with a fever of manta rays gracefully passing by.
4. HMHS Britannic Wreck (Kea)
This Olympic-class ocean liner is known as the "Brother of the Titanic". The ship was created on the eve of the First World War and impressed with its scale. The site was discovered by marine legend Jacques Cousteau in 1975 and is not advised for beginners due to the depth and complexity involved in exploring the wreck, but it is a revelation for ambitious divers and a favourite of the experts.
The ship sank in the Aegean Sea, off the coast of Kea. There were 1,066 people on board. Fortunately, almost all of them were saved.