Heraklion: Diving, Swimming, and Snorkeling like a Mermaid

Heraklion: Diving, Swimming, and Snorkeling like a Mermaid

This $79 tour in Heraklion, Crete, offers a chance to become a mermaid or merman for three hours. With professional snorkeling and diving instruction, participants wear a costume mermaid tail with an integrated monofin and explore the sea in a playful, fantasy way. The tour is designed for confident swimmers and lasts around 3 hours, including transportation, instruction, and underwater exploration. It’s a popular choice for those who want to try mermaiding and capture a digital recognition card at the end. While the tour emphasizes fun and fantasy, it also requires good swimming skills and comfort in the water.

We like how this experience combines the thrill of a costume with the chance to explore underwater. It offers a unique twist on snorkeling and caters to both beginners with swimming skills and experienced water lovers. The tour’s small group setting ensures personalized guidance, making safety a priority. The crystal-clear waters and friendly instructors stand out as highlights. However, participants should be aware that no photos or videos are included and food is not provided. This experience suits those who are adventurous, playful, and comfortable in the water.

Key Points

• Cost: $79 per person, for a 3-hour experience.
• Location: Starts at the port of “Pantanassa” near Ammoudara, Heraklion.
• Inclusions: Mermaid tail & monofin, snorkeling gear, instructor, digital recognition card, water.
• Highlights: Wear a costume mermaid tail, explore the underwater world, and earn a recognition card.
• Group size: Small groups limited to 3 participants for personalized attention.
• Transport: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Heraklion and nearby areas.
• Suitability: Best for confident swimmers over 12, not suitable for children or those with mobility or medical issues.
• Reviews: Praised for friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and amazing photos.

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Starting Point and Logistics in Heraklion

The tour begins at the port of Pantanassa, close to Ammoudara. The exact meeting location is shared one day before via message. A grey-yellow speedboat with an AQUADIVE sticker transports participants to the activity area. The pickup service is available from various resorts and hotels in Heraklion, Gazi, Kokkini Hani, and surrounding areas. The pick-up time generally falls between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM, with returns scheduled between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM.

Transportation is included in the price, making logistics straightforward. Nearby parking is available for those who prefer to drive themselves. The tour ends back at the starting point, completing a smooth experience without the need for additional transportation arrangements.

Exploring the Itinerary and Key Stops

The main activities are spread throughout the day, with snorkeling at Agia Pelagia Bay lasting 45 minutes. Participants begin with a 15-minute mermaid swimming class at Agia Pelagia, where the instructor guides them through the basics of swimming like a mermaid, emphasizing the dolphin-like movement that makes the experience so engaging.

Afterward, there is a brief break and free time in Agia Pelagia, giving participants a chance to relax or explore. The highlight of the tour is the 45-minute snorkeling session, where participants swim in crystal-clear waters, observing fish and underwater scenery in a relaxed setting.

The stops are designed to balance instruction, exploration, and free time, ensuring participants gain confidence in their movements while enjoying beautiful Crete scenery. Each stop is brief, keeping the pace lively but manageable, especially for those new to snorkeling or mermaiding.

The Mermaid Experience: Equipment and Instruction

Participants are provided with mermaid equipment, including a tail and monofin, which create the authentic mermaid look and movement. The additional snorkeling gear ensures comfort and safety while exploring underwater. The instruction includes a 15-minute digital theory session in the participant’s language, helping them understand proper techniques and safety tips.

The personal instructor guide is key to this experience, providing step-by-step guidance and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The mermaid tail adds a fantasy element but also requires basic swimming skills. The movement starts in the chest, mimicking dolphin-like swimming, which many find both fun and a little challenging at first.

What Participants Say About the Tour

Reviews point out that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making participants feel safe and excited. The crystal-clear waters and beautiful fish are frequently praised, along with the photos and videos taken during the activity, which are available for purchase afterward.

One review highlights how adults are welcome and jealousy among other participants shows how fun the experience is. Another reviewer notes that swimming in the sea is more challenging than pool practice, so good swimming skills are essential. The small group size adds a personal touch, letting guides pay close attention to each participant.

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Safety, Requirements, and What to Bring

The tour requires participants to be experienced swimmers over age 12. It not suitable for children under 12, mobility-impaired persons, wheelchair users, or those with medical conditions such as high blood pressure or over age 70. Participants should wear swimwear, bring a towel, sunscreen, and flip-flops.

Important to remember: alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour, ensuring safety in the water. The activity does not include food or photos, so travelers might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase photos separately.

Physical Demands and Accessibility

While the activity is designed for confident swimmers, it involves active movement in the water. Participants should be comfortable swimming with a tail and monofin. The tour does not cater to those with mobility challenges or non-swimmers. The focus on small groups helps keep safety tight but requires participants to have sufficient water confidence.

Comparing This Tour to Other Crete Water Activities

This mermaiding experience offers a unique opportunity compared to standard snorkeling or scuba diving. It combines fantasy with underwater exploration, appealing especially to those who have dreamed of being a mermaid since childhood. Unlike more conventional tours, this one emphasizes personalized instruction and the fun of costume swimming.

While it does not include professional photos or a gourmet meal, the experience of wearing the costume and swimming in clear waters makes it stand out. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for those seeking a more personal, playful adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Mermaiding Tour in Heraklion

This mermaiding tour in Heraklion suits adventurous, water-loving travelers who want to try something playful and different. The equipment, instruction, and small group setting make it accessible for confident swimmers over age 12.

While the activity demands good swimming skills, it offers a memorable chance to wear a mermaid tail and explore the sea in a whimsical way. The friendly guides and beautiful scenery make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those dreaming of becoming a mermaid or merman.

Keep in mind that photos and food are extra, and participants should arrive prepared with swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. This tour provides a fun, engaging, and visually stunning experience in the waters of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 due to water safety requirements and physical demands.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Yes, good swimming skills are essential, as the activity involves active movement with the mermaid tail and swimming in open water.

Are photos included in the tour?
No, photos and videos are not included but can be purchased separately after the activity.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and flip-flops. No food or drinks are provided or allowed, aside from water.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to the physical nature of the activity.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

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