Open Water Course in Nea Makri, Athens

If you’re dreaming of exploring the underwater world without leaving the vicinity of Athens, the Open Water Course in Nea Makri offers a straightforward and enjoyable way to get your certification. This three-day experience, provided by Kanelakis Diving Experiences, is designed to introduce beginners to scuba diving in a safe, relaxed environment with personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine a quick, hassle-free certification with the chance to see Greece’s underwater beauty without the long commitment of more intensive courses.

What I really appreciate about this program is the small group size—limited to just four people—which ensures you get plenty of individual coaching. Plus, the location near Athens makes it convenient for travelers who want to make the most of their trip without spending hours on transportation. The fact that you can choose between a standard course (2-3 days, max depth 39 feet) or a more comprehensive one (4-7 days, dive deeper) adds flexibility depending on your interest and schedule.

That said, if you’re someone with pre-existing health issues such as asthma or heart conditions, you’ll want to consult your doctor beforehand, as most you will need to complete a health questionnaire and meet basic medical standards. Also, keep in mind that diving within 12 hours of flying isn’t recommended, so plan your schedule accordingly. This course combines professional instruction, stunning waters, and great value—making it a compelling option for first-time divers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized attention with small groups (max four students) enhances safety and learning.
• Flexible course options allow you to finish in 2-3 days or extend to 4-7 days for deeper dives.
• Location convenience — close to Athens, only about a 30-minute drive—means less time in transit.
• High-quality instruction from Dimitris, who is praised for his patience and experience.
• Stunning dive sites in the south Evoikos Gulf offer beautiful underwater scenery.
• Hassle-free setup includes studying theory at your own pace and guided practical exercises.

Exploring the Course Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The course structure offers a balanced mix of theory and practical exercises, designed to make scuba accessible and fun. You’ll start by reviewing five theory sections, which you can study using a book or online, allowing you to learn at your own pace. This flexible approach means you can spend more time on what interests you most, and your instructor, Dimitris, will be available throughout to answer questions and provide guidance.

Once you’re comfortable with the theory, the practical part begins in shallow, confined waters. You’ll practice handling your equipment, mastering essential skills like equalizing, controlling buoyancy, and practicing emergency procedures—all in a safe environment. Many reviewers mention that Dimitris is “very responsible and patient,” emphasizing how much they appreciated the personalized coaching.

The most exciting part comes with the open water dives in the south Evoikos Gulf, where you’ll revisit skills learned earlier and explore the underwater landscape. Expect calm, scenic waters teeming with marine life and interesting formations. One reviewer noted how the diving sites were “very good and safe,” which is crucial for a first-timer.

The entire process builds confidence gradually—by the end of the course, you’ll be ready to dive independently within the limits of your certification. Plus, you’ll get a chance to practice and consolidate what you’ve learned, making this more than just a quick certification but a genuine introduction to scuba diving.

The Expert Guide: Dimitris and Personal Attention

Dimitris, the instructor, is a standout feature of this experience. Reviews praise his professionalism, responsibility, and patience—qualities that matter immensely when you’re trying something new. His thorough coaching ensures you understand each skill, reducing anxiety and increasing enjoyment.

The small group size means you get more personalized attention—a real advantage for beginners. Several reviews highlight how Dimitris made the learners feel comfortable, even practicing techniques multiple times until confident. This focus on safety and clarity creates a supportive environment that’s ideal for those new to diving.

Beyond the instruction, the dive sites are described as “very good and safe,” allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning scenery rather than worrying about hazards. The proximity of the location—just a 30-minute drive from Athens—adds to the convenience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or want to combine this with sightseeing.

The Location: Nea Makri and the South Evoikos Gulf

Nea Makri is a charming seaside town that offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for easing into your diving adventure. The waters here are generally calm, shallow enough for beginners, and rich in underwater life, which makes for a memorable first experience.

The dive sites in the south Evoikos Gulf are frequently praised for their stunning beauty and safety. This isn’t just a practical learning environment but an undersea spectacle, with clear waters, interesting rock formations, and a variety of marine creatures. The proximity to Athens means you won’t spend hours traveling; instead, you’ll be able to focus on what matters—learning and enjoying the water.

Since the course begins at Kanelakis Diving Experiences, located conveniently in Nea Makri, you’ll find it easy to meet your instructor and get started promptly at 10:00 am. The activity ends back at the same spot, streamlining logistics.

Pricing Analysis and Value

At $488.70 per person, this course offers good value when you consider the comprehensive training, small group size, and stunning location. The price covers five theory modules, confined water exercises, and open water dives, all led by experienced instructors.

Compared to other adventure activities or beginner courses, this is a reasonable investment—especially for the quality of instruction and the scenic environment. Keep in mind that the course is designed for beginners, so you won’t need previous experience, just a desire to learn and explore the underwater world.

The flexibility to choose between a shorter or longer course adds to the value, allowing you to tailor your experience based on your schedule and interest level. Plus, the hassle-free setup means you can focus on the fun rather than logistics.

Who Should Consider This Course?

This experience is ideal for first-timers eager to get their PADI certification without a lengthy commitment or overwhelming technical details. If you enjoy small groups, personalized coaching, and stunning underwater scenery, you’ll find this course very rewarding.

Travelers staying in Athens who want a quick escape to the water will especially appreciate the proximity and convenience. Families with children aged 10 and above can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult and meet health requirements.

Diving beginners who prefer a relaxed pace and well-structured training will benefit from Dimitris’s approachable style, as reported in reviews. It’s also a fantastic option for travelers who want to combine their sightseeing with a memorable underwater adventure.

Practical Tips for Your Diving Experience

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Be sure to complete the health questionnaire before diving; some medical conditions may prevent participation.
• Avoid flying within 12 hours of your dive day to prevent decompression issues.
• Bring a towel, swimwear, and waterproof sunscreen—most of your gear is provided.
• Arrive early at 10:00 am to start your day relaxed and prepared.
• Consider extending your stay if you want to deepen your skills or explore more dive sites.

The Sum Up: A Great Choice for Beginners and Water Lovers

For travelers wanting to tick off a scuba certification while enjoying the proximity to Athens, this course offers a practical blend of quality instruction, scenic beauty, and manageable logistics. The small group size, led by knowledgeable guides like Dimitris, ensures you get plenty of individual attention, which is vital when learning something as potentially intimidating as diving.

The location in Nea Makri provides calm, beautiful waters perfect for beginners, and the overall experience is designed to boost your confidence and spark a lifelong fascination with underwater exploration. Whether you’re looking for a quick course or a more extended immersion, the flexibility here makes it a compelling choice.

If you value personalized coaching, stunning dive sites, and a hassle-free learning environment, this open water course is well worth considering. It’s not just about earning a certification—it’s about opening a door to a whole new world of adventure.

FAQ

Do I need prior experience to take this course?
No, this course is designed for beginners with no previous diving experience. Age minimum is 10, and you’ll learn everything from scratch.

How long does the course take?
The standard certification takes about 2-3 days, but there’s an option to extend it to 4-7 days for deeper dives.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers theory modules (which you can study at your own pace), confined water exercises, open water dives, and expert instruction.

Can I participate if I have medical conditions?
You’ll need to complete a health questionnaire, and some pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart issues may prevent you from diving. Consult your doctor if unsure.

How close is the activity location to Athens?
About a 30-minute drive from Athens, making it very convenient for day trips or quick escapes.

What should I bring?
Diving gear is provided, but bring swimwear, a towel, waterproof sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection during breaks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations fewer than 24 hours before the start aren’t refundable, so plan accordingly.

If you’re looking to add a memorable, authentic experience to your Athens visit and are curious about the underwater world, this course delivers a well-rounded, safe, and scenic introduction to scuba diving.