Would you like to go scuba diving in Paros? With its deep blue waters and incredible clarity, Paros is the ideal place to try your hand at this activity. The Big Blue is yours to discover!
Did you know? Film buffs will be familiar with the behind-the-scenes filming of Luc Besson’s famous movie, and will know that two Cycladic islands were used as filming locations for The Big Blue. The watery beauty ofAmorgos andIos is mirrored on Paros, the third largest island in the Aegean archipelago. The latter is renowned for the intense blue of its waters, due to the depth of the seabed. The spots come in a whole range of blues, and divers will also find waters of incredible transparency.
Paros is probably not the number 1 destination for diving enthusiasts. However, it is a great idea for those who spend some time on the island. Diving in Paros is appreciated for a number of reasons: the originality of the sites – which will amaze many – the purity of the water, its incredible luminosity and the interesting biodiversity.
Shall we put on our flippers?
1. The islets of Prasonisi and Dryonisi (or Trionisi)
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Oleg_P
Not sure where to go diving in Paros? The Prasonisi cave boasts a magnificent drop-off, beautiful reefs and a relatively gentle current. The Dryonisi canyon, meanwhile, boasts a wealth of marine life against a backdrop of impressive rock formations.
2. Pirgaki Bay
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Bill Anastasiou
For beginners or those less at ease with diving, Pirgaki Bay is the ideal place to have fun, without taking too many risks. The beach allows you to enter the water calmly and enjoy the fish, rocks and amphorae that inhabit the seabed. For a truly unique experience, night diving sessions are also available.
3. The Makronisi islet underwater cave
Photo credit: Shutterstock / yiannisscheidt
Come and swim between rock formations and schools of barracudas! Amazing, isn’t it? Diving in Paros is full of surprises!
4. The wreck of the Arado
Photo credit: Flickr – Paolo Gamba
For history buffs, diving in Paros is an excellent way to reconnect with the past. While amphorae from the Greco-Roman era litter the seabed of the Aegean Sea, it’s not uncommon to admire wrecks dating back to the Second World War. Interested? Come and discover the remains of a German seaplane from the Second World War!
5. The underwater grotto on the islet of Panteronisi (or Panderonisi)
Photo credit: Youtube – Gary Gainsbury
This cavern is well known to diving enthusiasts. It would be a shame to go diving in Paros without visiting this spot. In fact, while it’s possible to dive in deep water at several points on the island, the Panderonisi underwater cave is particularly well suited to this activity. You’ll appreciate the 30 m drop-off, the exceptional light that emanates from the cave and the diversity of aquatic flora and fauna. Don’t miss the stalactites that adorn the cave! Please note that a minimum level of diving experience is required.
6. Tripiti shoals
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Georgios Tsichlis
Don’t go diving in Paros hoping to spot a school of clownfish or a dozen manta rays! On the other hand, if you’re looking for an impressive cave dive, you’ve come to the right place. From skylights to impressive biodiversity, you won’t be disappointed by Paros’ most famous spot.
7. Mikri beach in Santa Maria
Photo credit: Instagram – ximenagl
If you’re an experienced diver looking for a quiet outing, or if you lack experience, come and enjoy the calm waters of Santa Maria. The clear water and serenity make this site a must for snorkeling enthusiasts.
8. The eye of Poseidon
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Krofoto
Located in the very south of the island, this spot allows divers to combine archaeological and nature diving. Between 3rd-century amphorae, fauna, superb posidonia fields and elegant spirographs, you’ll appreciate the richness of this diving trip to Paros.
9. Tigani
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Dziurek
This site is interesting for its biodiversity, notably its nudibranch specimens and the incredible number of sea sponges it harbors.
10. Off Aliki
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Constantinos Iliopoulos
The Jacquarium is a stunning reef, where you’ll come across schools of fish and admire multicolored corals.
11. Faneromeni in Antiparos
Photo credit: Instagram – marcikuzia
If you’re staying in Paros for a while, you’re probably planning to visit Antiparos. Take the opportunity to dive there. The area is renowned for its underwater canyons, particularly at Faneromeni, where the crystal-clear waters are home to fish of all kinds.
12. The wreck of the Marianna and the remains of the Beaufighter
Photo credit: Shutterstock / GEORGE RIGOUTSOS
The advantage of diving in Paros is that you can not only enjoy the natural beauty, but also explore the seabed in search of historical treasures. Over 35 m long, the Dutch cargo ship Marianna sank off Aliki in 1981.
The older Beaufighter wreck is visible at a depth of over 30 m. The remains of this World War II bomber are only accessible to experienced divers.
13. Cape Fanos
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Haris vythoulkas
The discovery of Cap Fanos takes you to over 20 m, if you want to admire the drop-off. The seabed is less exceptional than at other spots. Nevertheless, a trip to Cape Fanos is well worth the detour.
Where can I find a diving club in Paros?
Would you like to go diving in Paros, but don’t know where to turn? Whatever your level, many diving centers offer courses for beginners and advanced divers alike. Instructors are well-trained and equipment meets all safety standards. It’s also possible to take certification courses.
For those of you who don’t yet want to take the plunge and put yourself in Jacques Mayol’s shoes, simple snorkeling trips are available.
The centers generally open from March to November.
Diving centers in Paros
- Cycladic Diving at Aliki
Cycladic Diving in Aliki is a well-known diving center. It offers PADI training, courses for children over 8 and guided dives.
- Aegan Diving College in Golden Beach
Aegan Diving College is a diving school located in Golden Beach. Founded by a biologist who worked on Cousteau’s Calypso, the timing couldn’t be better!
- Paros Divers at Golden Beach
Also on Golden Beach, Paros Divers is a PADI-registered center. Here you can take part in baptisms, levels or simply opt for a snorkeling outing.
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Other centers
Other centers offer services identical to those of the above establishments. These include Eurodivers Scuba diving on Paros in Parikia and X-ta-sea Divers in Santa Maria.
How much does it cost to dive in Paros?
- The price of a first dive: around €130.
- CMAS 1*: between €530 and €570.
- Archaeological or cave outings: around €70 (depending on distance and difficulty of access).
Night dives: around €90.
Note: dive packs are also available: 6 dives at around €450, 8 at around €550 and 10 at around €650.
What are you waiting for to come diving in Paros?