Two boat dives off Chania take certified divers from the shallow Elephant Cave to the WWI wreck Minnewaska and a modern artificial-reef park. Expect clear water, archaeological interest, and full equipment provided.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The day begins at the marina as a light breeze lifts the harbor glass; the boat cuts through Souda Bay and the coastline opens into chalky cliffs and small coves. Salt and diesel mix with the nervous chatter of divers checking gauges—below, the sea keeps its secrets. You drop in for two boat dives that move from shallow, cathedral-like slabs into deeper relics where history holds still.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable with repeated gear exchanges, boat work, and multiple descents to 20 m.
Wildlife
History
The Minnewaska was built in Belfast in 1908 by a White Star Line constructor and sank in 1916 after striking a WWI mine; newer artificial reefs like the Nestor support recovery of local marine life.
Conservation
The Apokoronas Diving Park is designed to encourage marine biodiversity; divers should follow low-impact practices—no touching wrecks or reefs, and avoid silting by careful finning.
Reserve your spot on the Chania Diving Trips for Certified Divers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Confirm Certification and Logbook
Bring your dive card and recent log entries; operators require proof of certification and will match dive sites to your experience level.
Wetsuit and Weight
Water ranges seasonally—bring a 3–5 mm wetsuit and confirm weight requirements with staff to achieve proper buoyancy for wreck and cave profiles.
Equalize Early and Often
Cave entry and descents to ~20 m demand steady equalization; descend slowly and signal frequently to your buddy.
Hydrate and Eat Light
Use the provided box lunch but avoid heavy meals before diving; dehydration increases nitrogen absorption risk—drink water during surface intervals.
3–5 mm Wetsuit (or semi-dry)
Keeps you comfortable during surface intervals and at depth in shoulder seasons.
Mask and Snorkel (personal fit)
A properly fitting mask improves visibility and comfort; snorkel useful during surface intervals.
Dive Computer
Tracks no-decompression limits and profiles for repetitive dives to ~20 m.
Surface Signaling Device (SMB/whistle)
Useful for marking your position during surface intervals, particularly in boat traffic.