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Dive centre · Rethymno · Greece

5.045 Google reviews

The Big Blue Diving

Explore the north coast of Crete aboard the MV Stella, accessing hidden caves and wreck sites with a technical-focused SSI centre.

What sets this centre apart

  • SSI affiliated centre with over 15 years of experience
  • Small group sizes with a maximum of 4 divers per guide
  • Technical diving training including Trimix and rebreather courses
  • Sidemount instruction available at both Rec and Tec levels
  • Daily excursions via the MV Stella to remote sites
  • Instruction follows the DIR approach for technical diving
  • Free hotel transfers provided for guests
  • Full equipment hire available on-site
Plongeur en silhouette explore une grotte sous-marine éclairée par le soleil

The Big Blue Diving about the centre

The Big Blue Diving is an established SSI centre located in Rethymno, Crete. For over 15 years, they have operated along the northern coast, providing access to a diverse range of underwater environments including vibrant reefs, historic wrecks, and complex cave systems.

The centre is built around a professional approach to diving, catering to those looking for a relaxed recreational experience as well as those pursuing advanced technical certifications. Their operations are centred on the MV Stella, which allows divers to reach more remote sites that are difficult to access from the shore.

The club and its team

The team is comprised of experienced SSI instructors who prioritise safety and personalised coaching. They maintain a strict ratio of no more than four divers per guide, ensuring that every person in the group receives adequate attention and thorough briefings before every descent.

Instruction is delivered with a focus on adapting to the individual's learning style. The centre is well-equipped to handle various levels of expertise, from those completing their first Open Water Diver course to technical divers working through complex sidemount or rebreather protocols.

The centre at a glance

Affiliation
SSI
Certification level
Instructor Training Center
Website available in
English
Boats
MV Stella
Divers per guide
4
Equipment rental
complet
Rebreather
Yes
Trimix
Yes
On board
snacks, underwater photos
Access and transfers
Free Hotel Transfer
Address
Παραλία Κουρνά 730 07, Greece
Official website
thebigbluediving.gr

Courses on offer

The course catalogue at The Big Blue Diving is extensive, covering the full spectrum of SSI certifications. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, with the option to progress through to Advanced levels.

For those looking to move beyond recreational limits, the centre offers specialised training in Rec Sidemount and Tec Sidemount. They also provide full Technical Diving Courses, including instruction for rebreather diving and Trimix, following the DIR approach to meet global technical standards.

The boats

The MV Stella serves as the primary platform for daily excursions. This vessel provides access to the more interesting sections of the north Cretan coast, reaching wrecks, reefs, and bays that remain sheltered from the shore-based crowds.

On board, the crew provides snacks to keep you fuelled between dives, and the team also offers underwater photography services to capture your excursions. The boat is configured to support both recreational outings and more demanding technical dives.

Equipment and gases

The centre provides a complete range of rental equipment for those not travelling with their own kit. This includes high-quality items from leading industry brands to ensure reliability and comfort during your dives.

For technical divers, the facility is prepared for more advanced requirements, offering support for sidemount and rebreather configurations. The centre's modern setup is designed to meet the specific needs of both standard recreational divers and those working in the technical realm.

Dive sites with The Big Blue Diving

Elephants Cave is a cavern site known for its swim-throughs and the way light filters through the openings, creating striking visual effects. It is an ideal spot for those interested in exploring cave-like structures.

Apokornas Underwater Park is Crete's dedicated wreck diving destination. This site allows divers to explore various wrecks, making it a primary location for those interested in maritime history and wreck penetration.

Shinaria Beach is a versatile site suitable for all levels of experience. It serves as one of the best local spots for a relaxed dive along the coastline.

And some of the dive sites the centre runs.

Elephants CaveApokornas Underwater ParkShinaria Beach
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