Stay Wet Diving Center

Stay Wet Diving Center has been a fixture of the Cretan diving scene since March 1995. As a recognized PADI Dive Resort and a member of the PADI Resort Association, the centre operates with a high level of organisation and safety. It is officially certified by the EBETAM quality control body, ensuring that service standards meet rigorous professional requirements.

The centre is located in the Mononaftis Bay, just 20 km west of Heraklion in Agia Pelagia. This specific location is highly advantageous for divers, as the bay is naturally protected from the wind. This shelter ensures that even when conditions elsewhere are less than ideal, the waters here remain calm and suitable for safe diving.

The team is led by a professional management structure including Mireille, the Administrative Director, Freddy, the Base Leader, and Yoan, the Head Instructor. The staff consists of qualified instructors and guides who are trained to international standards. For those who prefer communicating in French, the team is largely francophone, providing a seamless experience for French-speaking divers.

Safety is a core component of their operation, with the centre maintaining a full oxygen therapy kit on-site. The centre is well-equipped to handle various diver needs, from those requiring a refresher dive after a long break to those pursuing professional certifications.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of PADI training programmes. Beginners can start with the Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver courses, progressing through to the Advanced Open Water Diver level. For those looking to move into professional diving, the centre provides Divemaster training.

Specialised training is also available, including the Night Diver course and the Emergency First Response course. For divers returning to the water after a hiatus of more than two years, the centre offers dedicated adaptation dives to ensure comfort and safety before returning to full exploration.

The centre’s technical setup is robust, featuring a 24m2 Bauer compressor to handle cylinder fills. They maintain a full inventory of rental kit from reputable brands, specifically Aqualung and Cressi Sub, which is serviced by qualified technicians. Cylinders are compatible with both DIN and Yoke valves.

On-shore, the facility is designed for convenience, offering a covered terrace, changing rooms, toilets, and showers. Divers can use the lockers to secure their belongings between dives. For those not diving, the centre also provides access to sun loungers and parasols on the beach.

The marine life in the Mononaftis Bay area is diverse, with groupers, moray eels, and various species of fish frequently encountered. Divers will also see sponges and various types of starfish along the seabed and reef structures.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants add significant interest to the dives, with sightings of squid and various small crustaceans. If you look closely at the reef, you may find seahorses and other delicate species.

Larger pelagic visitors and more iconic species can also be spotted, including turtles, great barracuda, and rays. The presence of these animals makes the area a rewarding destination for those who enjoy observing marine biology in action.

The Mononaftis Bay location is a significant asset for divers, as the bay is protected from the wind. This provides a level of stability and calm water that is often difficult to find in other parts of the Mediterranean.

While specific swell and current data are not provided, the sheltered nature of the bay generally ensures manageable conditions for a wide range of diver levels.