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Scuba Diving & Fishing

The Island Where the Seabed Is Part of History

Kalymnos, globally known as the “island of sponge divers,” boasts one of the most fascinating and authentic marine environments in the Aegean. The tradition of professional divers, the clarity of its waters, and the variety of underwater formations have established the island as a major destination for those seeking high-quality and safe diving experiences.

It is no coincidence that the first state diving school in Greece was founded in Kalymnos, and that here you will find the largest designated freed area — stretching 12 kilometers of coastline — for independent diving. Certified diving schools operate on the island for both beginners and advanced enthusiasts.

Underwater Environment

  • Crystal-clear waters with visibility of 20–30 meters.
  • Rich marine life, including sea bream, damselfish, moray eels, parrotfish, and octopus.
  • Rocky formations, walls, reefs, and cavern passages.
  • Sandy bays and underwater seagrass, known as Posidonia meadows, ideal for training dives.

The stable water temperature, ranging from 18°C to 26°C depending on the season, allows diving for most of the year.

Types of Diving

Kalymnos offers options for all experience levels:

1. Training and Introductory Dives

Also known as Try Dive or Discover Scuba, these dives are suitable for beginners in sheltered bays around Pothia, Myrties, and Vathy. Shallow depths, sandy seabeds, and a safe environment make them ideal for first-time divers.

2. Wall & Reef Dives

More technical dive sites include:

  • The rocky walls outside Masouri.
  • The areas between Kalymnos and Telendos.

These sites offer depths from 10 to 40 meters, with gradual drop-offs and rich ecosystems.

3. Cavern Diving

Kalymnos features small caves and tunnels with easy access and sufficient natural light, suitable for open-water divers in semi-cave environments.

4. Wreck Dives

The surrounding area includes historic shipwrecks at shallow to medium depths, offering memorable underwater exploration for qualified divers.

Suggested Dive Sites

Indicative names based on common local dive maps:

  • Telendos East Wall – steep walls, suitable for Advanced Open Water divers.
  • Platy Reef – shallow and excellent for photography.
  • Nera Reef – deeper waters with very clear visibility.
  • Kalamies Cavern – a small cave with atmospheric lighting.
  • The Sponge Diver Site – a calm area connected to the sponge-diving tradition.

Diving Centers & Services

Most diving schools are located in:

  • Masouri
  • Myrties
  • Pothia
  • Vathy

They offer:

  • Equipment rental.
  • Training programs such as OWD, AOWD, Rescue, and Nitrox.
  • Organized boat excursions.
  • Underwater photography options.
  • Strong expertise in beginner courses, thanks to the island’s calm seas.

Practical Diving Information

  • Wetsuits: 5 mm in spring/autumn, 3 mm in summer.
  • Currents: Generally mild; some areas in the northeast require caution.
  • Depths: 5–18 m for beginners, 20–40 m for experienced divers.
  • Accessibility: Most dives are boat-based; beach dives are also available for training.
  • Safety: Beginners must be accompanied by a certified instructor.
  • Medical support: The island has a hospital in Pothia with a hyperbaric chamber.

Conclusion

Kalymnos is one of Greece’s most compelling diving destinations: clear waters, stable conditions, high safety standards, and a unique cultural heritage. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the seabed of Kalymnos offers sights and experiences that remain unforgettable.