CreteDivePark

Chronology Development Of The Diving Park

Idea and Planning

2015 — The importance of protecting the marine ecosystem inspired a group of diving enthusiasts to create a space that combines recreation and an environmental mission. Research into suitable locations and concept development began.

2016 — Initial negotiations with environmentalists, local authorities and investors were held. Initial permits for the use of the selected area were obtained.

Start of Construction and Infrastructure

2017 — Work began on preparing the area and building coastal infrastructure:  a training center, equipment rental area, recreation areas and a workshop for underwater research.

2018 — First dive of artificial reefs. Eco-friendly materials were used to create areas that attract marine life. Start of development of the “Underwater City” area.

Opening and First Steps

2019 — Official opening of the Diving Park. The program included basic dives, educational tours, and bottom cleanup events. The event was attended by local authorities, environmentalists, and the first visitors.

2020 — Night dives and a route to the sunken ship “Admiral” were introduced. The first sculptures for the underwater gallery were installed.

Expansion and environmental initiatives

2021 — Launch of educational programs for children and adolescents, including seminars on ecology and marine life. Start of cooperation with scientific institutes to conduct underwater research.

2022 — Completion of the expansion of the park: new artificial reefs were added and the snorkeling area was expanded. The “Light Underwater” project began — creation of special routes for night divers.

Modern Features and Recognition

2023 — The park has become one of the key places for ecotourism in the region. Holding international events, including volunteer campaigns and seminars.

2024 – New facilities such as interactive underwater routes and ecosystem monitoring technologies are introduced. The park is regularly cited as an example of sustainable tourism and effective nature protection.

Phases of the Diving Park project development

Phase 1

Construction of “fish houses” (2017-2018)

The main goal of the first phase was to create artificial reefs that provide shelter for marine life.

Activities:

Installation of structures made of environmentally friendly materials such as concrete and metal.
Placement of “houses” in areas with minimal interference with natural ecosystems.
Conducting monitoring to assess how quickly fish and corals adapt to the new conditions.

Results:

The first settlements of corals and resident fish species were visible within a few months.
These areas have become popular among divers due to the high concentration of marine life.

Phase 3

Underwater Gallery Development (2020)

In this phase, the park added cultural and artistic elements to attract more visitors and create a unique underwater experience.

Activities:

Installing sculptures that symbolize the interaction between humans and nature. Designing the gallery so that it becomes part of the ecosystem, attracting marine life.

Results:

The gallery has become a vibrant place for photo ops and educational tours. Visitors can observe how art interacts with nature and becomes part of the reef over time.

Phase 5

Sustainability and Technological Innovation (2023–present)

In this phase, the park focused on implementing technology and strengthening its environmental mission.

Activities:

Install sensors to monitor water, reef, and marine life. Conduct educational events and workshops to promote sustainable diving. Introduce virtual underwater tours and interactive maps.

Results:

The park has become a model for sustainable ecotourism. Increased the number of volunteers and participants in educational programs.

Phase 2

Ship Sinking (2019)

To create unique underwater routes and increase biodiversity, it was decided to sink decommissioned ships prepared in accordance with environmental standards.

Activities:

Preparation of ships, including removal of harmful materials (fuel, chemicals, paints). Sinking of the first ship – “Admiral”, which became one of the central attractions of the park. Creation of routes for divers with different levels of training.

Results:

The ship quickly became overgrown with corals, became a home for large fish and sea turtles.
New opportunities for underwater photography and research appeared.

Phase 4

Expansion of areas and routes (2021–2022)

As the park grew in popularity, it was necessary to increase its area and introduce new routes.

Activities:

Create new areas with artificial reefs and snorkeling “harbors”. Add routes for experienced divers, including deep-sea areas. Development of night dives with lighting.

Results:

The park became accessible to visitors of different levels of training. Night routes allowed observation of bioluminescent organisms and nocturnal ocean life.

History of the opening of the park

Mission

Our mission is to make the underwater world accessible to all, inspiring respect for nature. We offer safe, exciting dives for all levels, promoting ocean conservation.

Through immersion, visitors develop a stronger connection to marine life and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of ocean protection.

We aim to be leaders in eco-friendly diving, providing opportunities for marine conservation and encouraging sustainable practices to protect our oceans.

Environmental goals

Marine Conservation & Restoration

We create artificial reefs and protect underwater areas, providing an environment for the growth and reproduction of marine organisms.

Educational Programs

We organize seminars and lectures where visitors can learn about the underwater ecosystem, methods of its protection and the role of each person in keeping the oceans clean.

Eco-Diving

Introducing “zero impact” practices by teaching divers to leave no trace and not disrupt natural processes in the underwater environment.

Coastline Cleaning & Underwater Areas

we organize regular events with the participation of volunteers aimed at cleaning the seabed and coastal areas from garbage.

The diving park is more than just entertainment. It is an opportunity to become part of a global movement to preserve the underwater world by exploring it and helping to preserve it for future generations.

How to find us

The park is located at the address:

166 Douzina Street, Poros, Greece

You can get to us both by car as we are located near the main tourist routes and the beach area and by public transport.

1. Artificial Reefs “Coral”

Features: Artificial reefs were created to restore the marine ecosystem. These structures made of eco-friendly materials stimulate coral growth and attract a variety of marine species, including colorful fish, sea urchins, and shrimp.
Notable: This is an eco-diving zone where guests can observe how artificial structures become part of the underwater life and support biodiversity.

2. Underwater City Zone

Features: This zone features submerged structures styled after the ruins of an ancient city. Here, visitors can explore “streets” and “buildings” filled with marine life. Corals and algae grow around the buildings, and a variety of fish and other marine animals create an atmosphere of mystery.
Notable: A great place for photographers and those who like to study underwater artifacts and architecture.

3. Sea Garden Snorkeling Observation Deck

Features: For those who prefer shallow diving or snorkeling, the Sea Garden is a picturesque area with a variety of flora and fauna at shallow depths. Here, underwater meadows grow, and between them, colorful fish, starfish and other inhabitants hide.
Notable: A great place for beginners, families with children and anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of marine life without diving deep.

4. Admiral Shipwreck

Features: The Admiral was sunk specifically to create a unique route for experienced divers. It is in good condition and the dive includes exploration of various decks and cabins overgrown with marine plants.
Notable: This area allows you to feel like a marine explorer, adding a sense of adventure and mystery to the dive.

5. Night Dive Location “Firefly”

Features: This area is designed for night diving, during which special lamps are used to attract bioluminescent organisms and create the effect of “fireflies” underwater.
Notable: Diving here allows you to observe rare species and amazing natural phenomena that are only accessible at night.

6. Underwater Sculpture Gallery

Features: A collection of underwater sculptures are arranged to create the impression of a real gallery. These sculptures gradually become covered with corals and algae, becoming part of the ecosystem.
Notable: The sculptures are not only decorative, but also attract sea creatures, creating an unusual experience for divers that combines art and nature.

Measures for the conservation and protection  of nature in the Diving Park

1. Creating and maintaining artificial reefs