Zante Diving

Located on the island of Zakynthos, Zante Diving operates as a premier PADI 5 Star centre dedicated to exploring the Ionian Sea. The centre is positioned to take advantage of the island's unique underwater topography, ranging from steep limestone cliffs to sheltered marine parks.

Whether you are looking to start your training or are a seasoned diver seeking to explore the local reefs, the centre provides a structured approach to diving. Their operations are centred around daily boat trips that visit the most significant geological and biological landmarks in the area.

As a PADI 5 Star centre, Zante Diving maintains a high standard of instruction and safety. The team is experienced in handling a variety of diver profiles, from those completing their first breaths underwater to professional candidates working towards their Divemaster certification.

To ensure a personalised experience, the centre maintains a strict ratio of a maximum of four divers per guide. This allows for closer supervision during technical training or guided explorations of the local caves and reefs.

While the primary language for instruction is English, the centre is accustomed to an international clientele and provides a professional environment for divers from around the world.

The training programme covers the full spectrum of PADI certifications. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, while those looking to expand their skills can progress through the Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver courses.

For divers moving into professional territory, the centre offers the Divemaster certification. They also provide specialised training, including the PADI Nitrox course and the Sidemount specialty, to help divers refine their technical capabilities.

All certification courses include the necessary e-books, online tests, and personal instruction. The centre also provides Emergency First Response certification to ensure all divers have the fundamental safety skills required in the water.

The centre operates two 7.5-metre boats, each powered by 60 horsepower engines. These vessels are designed to carry between 9 and 10 guests, ensuring that the diving groups remain manageable and comfortable.

On board, you will find a cooler for refreshments, with water and snacks provided for those undertaking specialty courses. The boats serve as the primary platform for daily excursions to sites such as the Keri Caves and Marathonissi.

Zante Diving provides a full range of rental kit for divers who prefer not to carry their own equipment. This includes all the necessary components for a complete dive setup.

The centre is equipped to support divers looking to extend their bottom time, with Nitrox available on site. All equipment is regularly tested and maintained to ensure reliability throughout the season.

The marine life in this part of the Ionian Sea is diverse, with the protected waters around Marathonissi providing a sanctuary for Caretta Caretta turtles. Divers may also encounter dolphins (Delphinidae) and the rare Mediterranean monk seal during excursions to the Keri Caves.

In the rocky areas and near the cliffs, you can find various species such as Sea bream (Sparidae), Wrasse (Labridae), and Snapper (Lutjanus). Larger predators like Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), Tuna (Thunnus), and Jack (Carangidae) are also known to move through the area.

The reef and seabed host a variety of interesting macro and nocturnal life. Look out for Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), Scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), and various Moray eel (Muraenidae) species, including the snowflake moray. Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) and other small crustaceans add colour to the more intricate parts of the reef.

Diving in Zakynthos is primarily conducted via boat, with departures from Agios Sostis Port or Laganas Beach. The accessibility of certain sites, such as the Keri Caves and Eros Cave, is dependent on sea conditions, as they are only reachable by small vessels.

The area features a variety of environments, from the open waters of the marine park to the sheltered natural pools of the Pisines cove. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions depending on whether they are exploring open walls or enclosed cave systems.