Scuba Diving in Santorini

Santorini is one of the most famous travel destinations in the Aegean Sea. The island, as we know it today, was formed by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The eruption formed a wonderful underwater landscape that gives scuba divers endless opportunities for diving: sunken caves, dramatic walls, and seagrass meadows. At Palea and Nea Kameni islets you can also see lava formations. There are over 35 dive sites you can explore in Santorini.

Marine life includes species such as the Mediterranean parrotfish, Mediterranean red sea star, European perch, sea urchin, sea snail, sea horse, scorpionfish, octopus, nudibranch, flounder, red mullet, damselfish, cardinalfish, yellow black-faced blenny, peacock wrasse, noble pen shell, sea crab, and sea cucumber, among others.

When to Visit

The best time to dive in Greece is during the summer months. From July to September you’ll find the best diving conditions, including balmy water.

Water Temperature

The water temperature around Santorini island warms up above 16° C/61° F. The coldest water temperature is typically registered in January/February. The sea temperature peaks in July/August, when it can go up to 26° C/78° F.

Visibility

Santorini typically offers underwater visibility of 20 meters/66 feet.

Types of Diving

• Cave diving
• Wall diving
• Wreck diving
• Reef diving

Santorini Scuba Diving Highlights

• Caldera Lagoon. Inside the caldera, near the volcano, you will find many dive sites worth exploring. One of the most popular spots is Faros Reef, suitable for divers of all levels. Inside the rim of the caldera, you will find Adiavatous reef, said to be the central location of the lost city of Atlantis. In this region, you will see lots of crustaceans and invertebrates.
  * Kamari. Just off Kamari Beach, you will discover some of the best cave dives in Santorini. The volcanic origin of the caves makes this place truly magnificent. You can also explore swim-throughs, canyons, and boulders.
• Nea Kameni. Around the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni, you can find a few interesting wrecks such as a WWII ship, a passenger ship, and a former tug boat sunk on purpose.