Kalyves in 1 Day for Friends - Boat-based discover-scuba for absolute beginners
In Collaboration with Salty Descents. Updated on February 13, 2026.
A small-group, boat-based discover-scuba experience from Kalyves (Chania). Includes instructor-led briefing, gear fitting, a surface practice session, a guided 45-minute supervised dive, cold water and light snacks on board, plus complimentary photos and a short video.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Salty Descents, inspired by the tour Beginners Scuba Dive by Boat. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Boat-based discover-scuba for absolute beginners
- Small group with one-to-one instructor support
- 45-minute supervised dive with photos & short video included
Itinerary
Day 1
Full 4-hour beginners' scuba experience. Two daily departures (08:30 or 14:30) from Salty Descents Dive Center in Kalyves. This timeline shows the typical 08:30 departure with conservative buffers for transfers, gear fitting, briefing, a refreshment break and a 45-minute guided dive.
Pickup & Meet-up — Salty Descents Dive Center
We collect guests from nearby hotels (where requested) or meet at the dive centre. Meet your certified instructor, complete a short health check & paperwork, and get a brief outline of the day.
Tips from local experts:
- If you requested hotel pickup, be ready in your hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pickup window.
- Bring your ID and any medical information (e.g., recent medications) to speed the check-in.
- Wear swimwear under light clothes and bring a small towel — changing space is limited at the centre.
Pro Gear Selection & Fitting
Instructor-led selection and fitting of wetsuit, mask, fins and buoyancy equipment. We'll check weight needs and fit to ensure comfort before boarding.
Tips from local experts:
- Tell the instructor if you normally wear prescription lenses — bring your contact lenses or a prescription mask if needed.
- Wetsuit sizes vary by brand; if you’re between sizes choose the smaller size for a better thermal fit, but tell staff if it feels too tight.
- If you have long hair, bring a simple hair tie or cap to keep hair under the mask and away from regulators.
Boat Prep & Short Scenic Sail
Board the boat and transit to the training area. While cruising along the Kalyves coastline the team will prepare equipment and go over basic procedures.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sun protection (hat, reef-safe sunscreen) for the short sail — shade is limited on deck.
- Keep a small dry bag for valuables; the crew will advise where to stow items safely during the dive.
- If you feel seasick easily, take non-drowsy seasickness medication beforehand — discuss with the instructor if unsure.
Theory & Safety Practice (surface)
On the surface we cover essential dive theory, hand signals, regulator use, and safety drills. Practice skills in shallow water until you feel comfortable — we only descend when you are ready.
Tips from local experts:
- Pay close attention to the hand signals and practice them aloud — clear signals reduce underwater stress.
- If you wear glasses, remove them during practice to rehearse mask clearing and regulator exchange safely.
- Ask the instructor any question — this session is paced for absolute beginners so no question is too basic.
Refreshment Break — Boat deck
Short break on the boat with cold bottled water and a light snack (fresh fruit). Rest, rehydrate and ask any last questions before gearing up for the dive.
Tips from local experts:
- Sip water slowly — staying hydrated helps reduce the risk of post-dive headaches.
- Eat a light snack rather than a heavy meal before diving to avoid nausea.
- Store personal rubbish in the crew bin — help keep the sea and shoreline clean.
Guided Dive (45 mins) — Supervised by instructor
Enter the water from the boat and enjoy a guided, supervised dive of approximately 45 minutes. The instructor remains with you at all times to manage buoyancy, navigation and safety.
Tips from local experts:
- Equalize early and often during descent — if you feel pressure, ascend a little and try again slowly.
- Breathe slowly and continuously through the regulator; avoid holding your breath at all times.
- Trust your instructor’s guidance on depth and pace; stay within the instructor’s recommended proximity.
Return to Dive Centre & Flexible Departure
Cruise back to the dive centre where you will remove equipment, change and receive your complimentary photos and short video. We can drop you back at your hotel if a pickup was arranged, or you may depart independently.
Tips from local experts:
- Give the crew a preferred drop-off address at check-in so transfers run smoothly.
- Allow a few extra minutes after arrival for drying off and collecting photos/videos from staff.
- If you need a towel or a change room, request it on arrival — space is limited so be courteous to other guests.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Break, Sport |