Safety · Country Guide
Island-hop between volcanic walls, limestone caves, and clear-water Mediterranean bays
Updated Dec 7, 2025 • 23 sources
Safety And Conservation
Greece is generally a straightforward dive destination, but it is busy and heavily used by boats, ferries, and fishing. Plan around wind, use surface signaling, and treat marine parks and underwater cultural heritage rules as non-negotiable.
Top Risks
- Primary risk: Meltemi winds (Aegean summer)
- Secondary risk: Boat and ferry traffic
- Emergency contact: 112 (112)
- Safety overview: Greece is generally a straightforward dive destination, but it is busy and heavily used by boats, ferries, and fishing.
Dive safety
- Surface signaling: Carry an SMB and audible signal, and brief your group on pickup procedures.
- Boat traffic: Expect boats near popular coves; avoid long surface swims and surface close to your buoy/boat.
- Wind and chop: In summer, the Aegean can see Meltemi winds that change conditions quickly. Plan leeward sites and keep crossings short.
- Shore entries: Many entries are rocky. Use booties, check surge, and plan exits before you descend.
- Overhead environments: Caves and swim-throughs can become hazardous without training. Stay within limits and keep a clear exit.
Use 112 for emergencies. For suspected decompression illness, call emergency services immediately, provide oxygen if trained and available, and coordinate transport to appropriate medical care. Hyperbaric treatment is typically accessed via major cities and larger islands, but availability can vary by season and after-hours staffing. Dive insurance that covers hyperbaric care and medical evacuation is strongly recommended, especially if you are island-hopping.
Snorkel and freedive safety
Meltemi winds (Aegean summer)
In July and August, the Aegean can see strong north winds that add chop and cancel crossings. Plan leeward sites, earlier departures, or switch regions.
Boat and ferry traffic
Popular islands have heavy boat traffic. Use an SMB, listen for prop noise, and avoid long surface swims across channels.
Rocky entries and sea urchins
Many shore entries are rock. Wear booties or water shoes and pick stable entry/exit points.
Fishing lines and nets
Carry a cutting tool and stay alert for monofilament near harbors and rocky points. Report abandoned gear to your operator.
Wildlife and protected areas
- Zakynthos turtle nesting rules: On designated nesting beaches, access can be limited to daytime only (for example 07:00 to sunset) and visitors may be required to stay within a narrow strip near the shoreline, often within 5 m of the waterline.
- Monk seal protection zones: In the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, some zones are strictly protected and may require permission to enter.
- Seagrass matters: Posidonia meadows are protected and fragile. Do not anchor on seagrass and avoid standing on it while snorkeling.
- No-touch, no-take: Do not take shells, artifacts, or 'souvenirs'. Underwater cultural heritage is legally protected.
- Wildlife etiquette: Keep respectful distances, never chase animals, and avoid flash photography in caves or near resting wildlife.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when meltemi winds (aegean summer). Confirm local briefings before committing.
Emergency contacts
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 112 | European emergency number (routes to police, fire, medical, and maritime response) | 112 | 24/7 |
| Hellenic Coast Guard | Maritime incidents and sea rescue | 108 | 24/7 |
| Medical Emergency Service (EKAB) | Ambulance and medical emergencies | 166 | 24/7 |
| Hellenic Police | Police emergencies | 100 | 24/7 |
| Hellenic Fire Service | Fire and rescue | 199 | 24/7 |