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Dive centre · Ammoudara · Greece
4.9261 Google reviewsExplore the underwater history of Crete, from ancient Minoan amphorae in hidden caves to the Messerschmitt ME-109 wreck.

Eco Diving Center is situated in Ammoudara, near Heraklion on the north coast of Crete. The centre operates in an area rapidly becoming one of the most significant diving destinations in the Mediterranean, characterised by clear waters and a high density of marine life.
As an SSI Blue Oceans certified centre, the facility places a strong emphasis on ecological responsibility and high safety standards. Whether you are looking to start your journey with a Try Scuba session or are a technical diver seeking advanced Trimix or CCR training, the centre provides the infrastructure and expertise required for a professional experience.
The team at Eco Diving Center is composed of experienced and qualified professionals dedicated to high-level instruction. Their approach is built on the pillars of safety and environmental respect, working in collaboration with major organisations such as SSI, DAN, and iSea.
Training is available for all ages, including dedicated programmes for children. The centre is well-equipped to handle a wide variety of diver needs, from recreational enthusiasts to those pursuing professional instructor paths through the SSI Assistant Instructor and Instructor Trainer programmes.
The course catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of SSI certifications. Beginners can start with Try Scuba, Scuba Diver, or Open Water Diver, while younger divers can follow the Junior Open Water path. Advanced training includes Advanced Open Water, Deep Diving, Navigation, and Wreck Diving.
For those looking to specialise, the centre offers specific training in Sidemount, Night & Limited Visibility, and Specialty courses such as Search & Recovery or Marine Ecology. Technical divers can access advanced training in Extended Range, including Nitrox, Trimix, and Hypoxic Trimix, as well as CCR Diving and Advanced Decompression Diving.
The centre maintains a modern facility in Ammoudara with a focus on reliable, high-standard kit. All diving equipment is new and carries ISO and CE certification to ensure it meets the highest technological requirements.
For divers looking to extend their bottom time or move into technical territory, the centre provides Nitrox and Trimix capabilities. The facility is designed to support a range of diving disciplines, including sidemount and rebreather diving.
Adeb al Salam shipwreck: This 50-metre cargo vessel lies in the Gulf of Linoperamata at depths between 3.5 and 9 metres. It offers opportunities for slight penetration and features an impressive large propeller at the rear.
Messerschmitt ME-109: Located in the Sea of Hersonisos, this WWII-era aircraft rests at 27 metres. The large engine propeller sits near the fuselage, and the wing openings provide shelter for large groupers and moray eels.
Amphora Cave: Found off the Mononaftis beach, this cave sits at 17 metres and contains Minoan amphorae, creating a unique underwater museum. The site is populated by schools of fish, moray eels, and large Mediterranean sponges.
Elephant Cave: A world-renowned site near Chania, this cave features a large tunnel and a main chamber with reddish stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is notable for fossilised bones of ancient elephants and deer embedded in the rock.
And some of the dive sites the centre runs.
The Mediterranean biodiversity around Crete is remarkably varied. You will frequently encounter groupers, moray eels, and various Mediterranean fish species. Larger pelagics, such as tuna and mahi-mahi, are often spotted near the deeper reefs, alongside tiger groupers.
For those interested in macro life, the rocky reefs and seagrass meadows host a wealth of smaller organisms. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs, seahorses, lobsters, and various species of octopus and scorpionfish. The seabed is also home to diverse sponges, fanworms, and Mediterranean corals.
During certain times of the year, you may have the chance to see larger marine life. Caretta caretta turtles and dolphins appear occasionally, adding to the experience of the local reefs and protected areas like Dia Island.
Diving in Crete is possible year-round, including a dedicated winter diving season. Winter diving often provides higher visibility due to lower algae growth and calmer conditions, making it an ideal time for dry suit training.
Excursions are organised via minibus or boat, with sites ranging from shallow reef flats to deeper canyon and wall dives. The Mononaftis region is particularly noted for its rocky bottom and diverse underwater topography.
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