Snorkel trip to the Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls Plakias

Exploring the Snorkel trip to the Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls in Plakias, Crete, offers a lively mix of natural beauty and family-friendly fun. Priced at $97 per person, this 4-hour tour is perfect for those seeking an active outdoor experience amid breathtaking scenery. The tour departs from Dive2gether, a reputable PADI diving school, where participants are fitted with wetsuits, masks, and snorkels. The tour is especially appreciated for its safety measures, like providing professional underwater photography and wetsuits that keep you warm in the cold spring waters.

While it involves walking down over 300 concrete steps, the experience rewards visitors with stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear spring water, and memorable photo opportunities. It’s suitable for most able-bodied individuals over 6 years old, but not recommended for those with mobility issues or knee problems. This adventure combines adventure, nature, and family fun, making the Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls trip stand out in Crete’s outdoor activities.

Key Points

• Price: $97 per person, including transport, snorkeling gear, water, and fresh fruit
• Duration: 4 hours, with specific start times based on availability
• Location: Starts at Dive2gether diving school in Plakias, Crete
• Highlights: Waterfall snorkeling, natural waters, waterfalls, and scenic photos
• Physical demands: Walking down 300+ steps, not suitable for those with mobility impairments or knee issues
• Family friendly: Suitable for children over 6, with plenty of water fun for all ages
• Guides: Knowledgeable multilingual guides (Dutch, English, French, German)

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting at Dive2gether in Plakias Sets the Stage

The tour begins at Dive2gether, a 5-star PADI diving school, which provides the necessary equipment—wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and bags—for the adventure. The guides show a video preview of the trip, helping prepare everyone for what awaits. The shop offers safe storage for valuables, ensuring peace of mind during the water activities.

Participants are advised to bring a towel, water shoes, a water bottle, and change of clothes. The meeting point is marked by a blue “PADI” flag, making it straightforward to find. After a brief safety briefing, the group loads into vans for a 15-minute scenic drive to the gorge.

The Climb Down: Conquering Over 300 Concrete Steps to the Water

Once at the start of the gorge, visitors face a staircase of over 300 concrete steps leading down to the water’s edge. A Greek chapel marks the top of the descent, providing a picturesque backdrop. The trek down is physically demanding, especially for those with knee problems, but it leads to an incredible natural setting.

The descent is followed by a walk through hip-deep water along the riverbank, introducing the lush surroundings and fresh spring water. This water is directly from the springs, offering an energizing tasting experience that highlights the tour’s focus on natural water sources.

Snorkeling in the Kourtaliotiko Springs and Waterfalls

Once at water level, guides help participants don wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, and test all equipment for proper fit and function. The wetsuits are appreciated for adding warmth, making the cold spring waters more comfortable. Guides also attach safety floating lines in deeper sections, ensuring everyone feels secure while swimming.

The tour includes a short snorkeling course, demonstrating how wetsuits provide buoyancy and how to use masks and snorkels effectively. The swimmers splash around among multiple waterfalls at the ‘laguna’, a highlight of the trip that offers fantastic photo opportunities of the lush, waterfall-studded environment.

Swimming Under Waterfalls and Enjoying the Natural Beauty

Participants get a chance to swim directly beneath waterfalls, feeling the spray and hearing the roar of water around them. The guides encourage fun and safety, with everyone able to splash and relax in the natural pools. When feeling cold, the group leaves the water to enjoy the sun and sample fresh fruits brought along by the guides.

This part of the tour emphasizes water fun for all ages and offers plenty of opportunities for photo moments. The guide’s friendly demeanor and clear instructions make the snorkeling accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

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Return Journey and Photo Purchases

After about 3.25 hours in the gorge, the group begins the ascent back up the 100 steps. The drive back to the diving school takes around 15 minutes. Once back at Dive2gether, there’s an option to purchase photos taken with a professional underwater camera for 19 euros—a worthwhile memory for many.

Participants are encouraged to fill water bottles at the springs before returning and to bring their own swimwear and water shoes. The overall pacing is balanced, allowing ample time to enjoy water activities and take in the scenery.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour includes transport to and from the gorge, and all necessary snorkeling equipment. It’s designed for groups limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention from guides. The activity is not suitable for children under 6, individuals with mobility impairments, or those afraid of heights.

Participants should be prepared for walking down and up over 300 steps, and are advised against bringing high heels, strollers, or other non-suitable items. The tour is best suited for active guests who like outdoor water adventures and are comfortable in natural water environments.

Insight from Reviews: Guides and Waterfalls

Reviewers highlight knowledgeable guides, with one describing the guide as “total cool” and “cheerful”, creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The stunning waterfalls and natural scenery receive praise, with many noting the magnificent caves and unique natural wonder of the laguna.

Some minor equipment issues were noted, such as neoprene suits with holes, but these did not detract from the overall positive experience. The friendly guides and beautiful photos are often mentioned as memorable parts of the tour.

Who Will Enjoy the Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls Snorkel Trip?

This family-friendly adventure appeals most to those who love outdoor water activities and are comfortable with walking and swimming. The focus on natural beauty, waterfalls, and crystal waters makes it ideal for nature lovers and outdoor explorers.

Since the tour involves physical activity and stairs, it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or elderly over 75. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and guides speak multiple languages for international visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $97?
Transport from the diving school to the gorge and back, snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, wetsuit, bag), water, and fresh fruit.

Are pictures available for purchase?
Yes, professional underwater photos can be bought for 19 euros for all pictures of the day.

What should I bring?
Participants need to bring a towel, water shoes, a small water bottle, swimwear, and change of clothes. Sunscreen is recommended, and personal belongings can be stored safely at the shop.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Walking down over 300 concrete steps and wading through hip-deep water can be challenging for some. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility problems or knee issues.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old can participate, but younger children or those with mobility or height restrictions might find the steps and water challenging.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, guides are fluent in English, Dutch, French, and German.

What are the main highlights of this trip?
Participants enjoy waterfall snorkeling, swimming in natural spring water, beautiful scenery, and great photo opportunities.

How long do the water activities last?
The snorkeling and water fun take around 3.25 hours, with plenty of time to explore and relax.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who should avoid this tour?
This activity is not suitable for people over 75, those with mobility impairments, fear of heights, or non-swimmers.

This snorkel adventure to the Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls in Plakias offers an engaging mix of nature, water fun, and scenic beauty. With expert guides, stunning waterfalls, and the opportunity to swim in pure spring waters, it stands out as a memorable outdoor activity in Crete. Carefully consider the walking demands and physical requirements, but for active travelers, this tour promises a wonderful natural escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby