Exploring the underwater world alongside a marine biologist in Crete isn’t just an adventure – it’s a chance to uncover the secrets of the deep. Certified divers can dive into this unique research opportunity, seeing diverse marine ecosystems and utilizing specialized equipment to study the local flora and fauna up close. With personalized attention from a reputable diving school, participants are sure to gain a deeper understanding of the ocean’s wonders. But what exactly can they expect to discover beneath the waves?
Key Points
- Participants work alongside a marine biologist during research diving activities in Crete, exploring the underwater world and examining marine life.
- The experience is organized by a 5-star PADI diving school, ensuring professionalism and safety.
- Participants have the opportunity to use specialized marine biology equipment, including microscopes, in an open-air lab.
- Diving sites and the marine biology lab are conveniently accessible from the meeting point at Dive2gether Crete.
- The activity is suitable for certified divers with moderate physical fitness, and underwater photos can be purchased as souvenirs.
Overview of the Research Diving Experience
Although this research diving experience in Crete takes participants beneath the waves, it’s not just about exploring the underwater world.
This research diving experience in Crete offers more than just exploring the underwater world.
Divers will get to work alongside a marine biologist, using specialized equipment like microscopes to study marine life up close in an open-air lab.
After the dive, they’ll have the opportunity to purchase underwater photos as a souvenir.
With a 5-star PADI diving school as the meeting point, certified divers can expect a professional, educational adventure that combines hands-on research with the beauty of Crete’s coastal waters.
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Location and Meeting Point
The research diving experience takes place in the picturesque island of Crete, Greece.
The meeting point is Dive2gether Crete, a 5-star PADI Diving School and Center located along the boulevard between a supermarket and a car rental office. The center is marked by blue PADI flags, making it easy to find.
Participants should arrive at the meeting point by 8:30 am to begin the day’s activities.
The location is conveniently situated, providing easy access to the diving site and marine biology lab for the research diving exploration.
Inclusions and Pricing
The research diving experience in Crete includes a variety of specialized equipment and amenities to enhance the participants’ exploration and learning.
Divers will be provided with scuba gear and marine biology tools like microscopes in an open-air lab.
Divers are equipped with scuba gear and marine biology tools like microscopes in an open-air lab for their exploration and learning.
While lunch at a beach taverna isn’t included, participants can purchase underwater photos taken during the dive for 19 euros.
The experience is priced from $276.19 per person.
Confirmation is received at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.
Bottled water is provided throughout the dive to keep participants hydrated.
Participant Requirements
To participate in the research diving experience in Crete, certain requirements must be met.
Participants must be certified divers with a moderate level of physical fitness. This activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
The private tour is for your group only, so you’ll get the marine biologist‘s full attention.
Be prepared to get hands-on with specialized marine biology equipment like microscopes in an open-air lab.
Just remember to pack your dive gear – the provided scuba equipment and bottled water are included.
Highlights of the Marine Biology Lab
Beyond just scuba diving, the research diving experience in Crete allows participants to get hands-on with the specialized marine biology equipment in an open-air lab.
This includes:
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Microscopes for close examination of collected organisms and samples.
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A range of specialized tools and instruments for conducting marine research and analysis.
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An immersive learning environment that brings the underwater world to life on land.
Divers can explore the fascinating marine ecosystem, then dive deeper into the data and discoveries back on shore.
It’s an unparalleled opportunity to experience marine biology firsthand.
Underwater Photography Opportunities
One of the major highlights of the research diving experience in Crete is the opportunity to capture stunning underwater photos. Participants can purchase high-quality images taken by the experts during the dive for 19 euros. These photos showcase the vibrant marine life and beautiful ocean scenery observed firsthand. To give you a sense of what’s possible, here’s a sample of the types of shots you may take home:
| Type of Shot | Quantity | Price (euros) |
| ———— | ——– | ———— |
| Wide-angle | 3 | 57 |
| Macro | 5 | 95 |
| Group | 2 | 38 |
The underwater photography is a fantastic memento of this once-in-a-lifetime research diving adventure.
Schedule and Itinerary
The research diving experience in Crete begins bright and early at 8:30 am when participants meet at the Dive2gether Crete center.
The research diving experience in Crete begins bright and early at 8:30 am when participants meet at the Dive2gether Crete center.
Located along the boulevard, the center is marked by blue PADI flags, making it easy to find.
The schedule for the day includes:
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Gearing up with the provided scuba equipment and specialized marine biology tools, including microscopes for the open-air lab.
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Diving into the crystal-clear waters of Crete to explore the underwater world and collect samples for research.
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Concluding the activity back at the meeting point, with the option to purchase underwater photos taken during the dive.
FAQ
What Is the Typical Group Size for This Research Diving Activity?
This is a private tour, so the group size is typically just your own group. The activity description states that "only your group will participate", indicating it’s not a shared experience with other travelers.
Can I Rent Additional Scuba Gear or Underwater Photography Equipment?
Yes, you can rent additional scuba gear or underwater photography equipment. The activity includes specialized marine biology equipment, but you can add on extra gear at an additional cost to customize your diving experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Activity?
Yes, you can extend the duration of the activity. The listing indicates participants can add extra dives or extend the lab session, though additional costs would apply. Check with the provider for pricing and availability of extended options.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Are There Dining Options Nearby?
Participants don’t need to bring their own lunch – there’s a beach taverna nearby where they can purchase lunch separately. The activity itinerary doesn’t include a provided lunch, but there are dining options available close to the meeting point.
Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Marine Biologist During the Dives?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to interact with the marine biologist during the dives. They’ll guide you underwater, share their expertise, and let you use specialized marine biology equipment like microscopes in the open-air lab.
Sum Up
Dive into the depths of Crete’s captivating marine world alongside a knowledgeable marine biologist. Explore diverse ecosystems, study specimens up close, and capture unforgettable underwater memories. This unique research diving experience, organized by a 5-star PADI school, offers an immersive learning adventure that’ll deepen your understanding of the ocean’s wonders. Don’t miss this chance to truly experience the thrill of marine research firsthand.
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