Athens East Coast: Open Water Diver Course in Nea Makri

Introduction: A Refreshing Entry into the Underwater World of Greece
If you’re dreaming of exploring the underwater realm without prior experience, the Athens East Coast: Open Water Diver Course in Nea Makri offers a practical, friendly, and well-organized way to get started. Located just a short drive from Athens, this course takes advantage of the warm, transparent waters of Schinias Bay and Cape of Marathon—two of Greece’s most inviting diving spots. From the moment I learned about the flexibility of the schedule to the inclusion of all necessary equipment, I knew this could be a great fit for anyone curious about scuba but hesitant to jump straight into a more intensive certification.

What I especially like about this experience is the customizable learning pace—you can do the theory on your own or with an instructor, which makes it accessible for busy travelers. Plus, the small group size (limited to four participants) promises personalized attention, critical for a confident start. One thing to keep in mind is that while the course is designed for beginners, it’s not suitable for those with certain health conditions or unaccompanied minors, so a quick health check and a good swim are essential prerequisites.

The main consideration? The cost of $542 per person is reasonable when considering it covers everything from equipment to certification, but it’s worth comparing this to other local options or shorter courses if you’re on a tight schedule. Still, for those who want a genuine, well-supported introduction to scuba diving in a stunning location, this course hits the right notes.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Flexible scheduling allows you to tailor the course around your travel plans.
• All necessary equipment and training materials are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Small group size (up to 4 participants) ensures personalized guidance.
• Certification from a major dive association opens the door to diving anywhere in the world.
• The course includes both theory and practical dives in shallow and open waters, ideal for complete beginners.
• The location’s crystal-clear waters and warm climate provide an excellent learning environment.

Discovering the Location and Setting

Nea Makri is just a 30-minute drive from central Athens, making it an accessible escape from the city’s hustle. The course takes place at Frinis 20, which is conveniently located in Nea Makri, close to the coast. The waters of Schinias Bay are emblematic of Greece’s inviting seascape: warm, clear, and calm—perfect for learning to breathe underwater comfortably.

What makes this setting especially appealing is the quality of visibility in shallow waters, which makes practicing with equipment much less intimidating. I’ve read that the instructor, Kanelakis Diving Experiences, is attentive and experienced, which is vital in building confidence early on.

The Course Structure: What You Can Expect

The theory component consists of five lessons, which you can complete at your own pace via the internet or with instructor-led sessions. This flexibility means you can spread out learning if you’re juggling other travel plans. Each lesson ends with a knowledge review and a final exam, but the instructor’s constant presence ensures no one feels lost.

The practical part involves five confined water dives where you’ll learn to handle your equipment—think of this as your underwater training wheels. These shallow dives are performed in safe, controlled conditions, giving you the chance to practice skills like buoyancy control, mask clearing, and regulator recovery.

Once comfortable, you’ll move on to the open water dives—four in total—held in some of the most interesting spots in the south Evoikos Gulf. These dives will deepen your understanding and comfort, culminating in your certification. In the longer Open Water Diver certification (which takes 4-7 days), you’ll get to dive to a maximum depth of 18 meters, unlocking more of the underwater world.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $542, this course covers a lot. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, so there are no surprise costs at the end. You’ll also receive photographs or videos of your dives—an excellent keepsake and confidence booster. The diving equipment is provided, which means you don’t need to buy or rent gear separately. Training materials, including books and e-learning resources, are part of the package, letting you study at your own pace.

Safety is a priority here: DAN insurance is included, and a dive logbook is provided to record your new skills. All this makes the course not just fun but also safe, structured, and professional.

Meeting Points and Practical Info

Meet at Frinis 20 in Nea Makri—an easy-to-find spot close to transportation options. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, which simplifies planning your day. The course runs over four days, with flexible starting times, so it’s easy to fit into most travel schedules.

Participants should bring swimwear, and the minimum age is 10 years old, provided they meet swimming skill requirements. The instructor speaks both English and French, which broadens accessibility. Keep in mind, unaccompanied minors are not permitted, and those with certain health conditions (like heart or respiratory issues) should consult their doctor before signing up.

Who Will This Course Suit Best?

This experience is ideal for first-timers who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer small, intimate groups and appreciate flexible scheduling. If you’re someone who dreams of diving in Greece but feels overwhelmed by full certification courses, this offers an accessible stepping stone. It also suits families, provided they meet age and health requirements, and those wanting a memorable activity that combines learning, adventure, and stunning scenery.

Price and Value Analysis

At $542, this course offers comprehensive training with all necessary equipment, safety insurance, and certification—quite a good deal when you compare it to similar experiences. The inclusion of photographs/videos and logbooks adds value, and the opportunity to complete the theory at your own pace can make the experience less stressful. For travelers seeking an authentic, beginner-friendly diving experience with a professional provider, the price reflects a solid investment in quality and safety.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to learn scuba diving in Greece is a smart idea: the warm waters, vibrant marine life, and scenic coastlines make for an unforgettable introduction to the underwater world. This course’s combination of flexible scheduling, small group sizes, and inclusive pricing makes it appealing for curious travelers who want to dip their toes into diving without committing to a lengthy or costly program.

The professionalism of Kanelakis Diving Experiences, paired with the scenic locale of Nea Makri, ensures you’ll get a thorough, encouraging start. Whether you want to earn your first certification or simply try scuba in an accessible way, this experience offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction.

FAQs

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, no previous experience is required. The course is designed specifically for beginners, with shallow water training and step-by-step guidance.

What equipment do I need to bring?
Just swimwear. The course includes all necessary diving gear, so you won’t need to rent or purchase anything else.

Can I complete the theory at home?
Absolutely. You can study the five lessons via the internet or with the instructor, allowing you to learn at your own pace.

How many dives are included in this course?
The course includes five confined water dives and four open water dives, depending on which certification option you choose.

What is the maximum depth I can dive after completing this course?
With the Open Water Diver certification, you can dive to 18 meters, but the shorter scuba diver course limits dives to 12 meters.

Are there any health restrictions?
Diving within 12 hours of flying is not recommended. You should complete a health questionnaire, and certain conditions like asthma or heart issues might prevent you from diving.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The minimum age is 10 years old, but children must be able to swim and are usually accompanied by an adult.

What language options are available?
The instructor speaks English and French, making it accessible for a broader range of travelers.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

This Nea Makri diving course offers a compelling blend of professional instruction, scenic beauty, and practical flexibility—ideal for those ready to explore Greece’s underwater treasures for the first time.