Safety · Destination Guide
Aegean reefs, blue caverns and Delos antiquity from a lively Cycladic base
Updated Apr 26, 2026 • 28 sources
Mykonos diving is usually local, guided and manageable, but safety planning should account for Meltemi wind, boat traffic, deeper wreck sections, overhead caverns, limited island medical capacity and protected cultural or natural sites. Carry dive insurance, use licensed operators and keep an evacuation buffer in your itinerary.
Use a dive computer, SMB and conservative profiles, especially if you are mixing dives with ferries, flights, nightlife or heat. The ANNA II profile can push beyond basic Open Water comfort, and Peloponisos-style deeper wreck plans require advanced or technical judgement. Caverns are not caves: stay within light-zone and guide limits unless properly trained. Freedivers should use a buoy, buddy and surface support. Snorkelers should avoid boat lanes and slippery rocks. Strong wind is a cancellation factor, not an inconvenience to argue through.
Mykonos has local clinics and emergency response, but serious dive injuries may require evacuation to a hyperbaric facility in Athens or another mainland location. Call 112 or 166 for medical emergencies, notify DAN or your dive insurer early, and keep your computer, dive profile, gas details and symptoms available for the medical team. Do not fly after suspected decompression illness.
Meltemi wind can change everything
July-August can be beautiful and difficult at the same time. Strong northerly wind can close ports, cancel ferries, rough up beach entries and move dive boats to backup sites.
Underwater antiquities are protected
Amphora fragments, anchors and historical wreck material are not souvenirs. Photograph only, never move objects, and follow licensed guide instructions around any sensitive route.
Monk-seal habitat requires restraint
If a seal appears near Tragonisi or Chtapodi, keep distance, avoid chasing, do not enter occupied caves and let the guide decide whether the dive should continue.
Sun exposure is severe on Delos and boats
Delos has little shade and dive boats can feel cool in the wind while UV stays intense. Wear a hat, sunglasses, rashguard and sunscreen, and carry more water than you think you need.
Respect Posidonia meadows, rocky reefs, sponges, nudibranchs, octopus dens, monk-seal habitat and cultural artifacts. Do not anchor on seagrass, do not chase seals or turtles, do not enter occupied caves, and do not collect amphora fragments or wreck material. Good buoyancy matters because many Mykonos sites are rocky and sponge-rich rather than sand-bottomed. Pack out trash and use reef-safe sun protection.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when meltemi wind can change everything. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Emergency Number | Police, fire, medical and maritime emergency dispatch in Greece | 112 | 24/7 |
| EKAB Ambulance | Medical ambulance emergency | 166 | 24/7 |
| Hellenic Coast Guard | Maritime emergency and port authority coordination | 108 | 24/7 |
| DAN Europe Emergency Hotline | Diving medical advice and evacuation coordination | +39 06 42115 685 | 24/7 |
| Mykonian Hygeia Medical Centre | Local private medical center and emergency line | +30 6977 654 737 | Seasonal hours, emergency line listed by clinic |
| Mykonos Port Authority | Local port and maritime coordination | +30 22890 22218 | Check current office hours |