Greece opens underwater archaeological sites to scuba divers

·

Greece is going all out to attract visitors this summer.

Once-stringent scuba diving regulations for Greek waters were recently lifted, eliminating diving depth limits and allowing diving at archaeological sites and sunken ships in the seas around Greece.

This latest loosening of restrictions follows the passing of a 2019 bill in Parliament easing scuba diving laws, and is part of larger group of incentives to encourage the return of international tourists to Greece following the worldwide coronavirus lockdown.

Prior to the passage of the bill, scuba divers could only enter archaeological sites when accompanied by qualified underwater divers, who are typically hard to come by.

Now, scuba divers are understandably expected to flock to Greece’s many sunken ships, as the 2019 bill allows for unescorted visits to shipwrecks that are older than 50 years.

In 2019, the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, a department of Greece’s Ministry of Culture, along with the Ministry of Tourism, designated four ancient shipwrecks to become Greece’s first underwater museums in a bid to expand underwater-heritage marketing.

The first two Underwater Archaeological Parks in the nation are scheduled to open to visitors by this summer. The two parks are located on the islet of Sapientza, opposite Methoni town and in Navarino Bay in the Pylos area of southwestern Messinia.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Evzones inspire students during memorable visit to St Spyridon College

Staff and students of St Spyridon College gathered at St Spyridon Church in Sydney on Tuesday, April 29 to warmly welcome the Evzones.

Lemnos Remembrance Trail website officially launched to preserve ANZAC stories

The Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) has officially launched the Lemnos Remembrance Trail website.

Bringing the magic of Greek cinema to life: An interview with Dioni Vertzayas

Dioni Vertzayas is set to mesmerise audiences in 'Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema,' a concert in Sydney.

Greek Australian Writers’ Festival 2025: A celebration of storytelling, legacy and community

“Keep going,” was the sentiment George Kouvaros left audiences with as he wrapped up the panel at the Greek Australian Writers’ Festival.

Oakleigh Grammar students inspired by Round Square Footprints of Unity Conference

Oakleigh Grammar students have returned from the Round Square Footprints of Unity Conference in Perth with lasting memories.

You May Also Like

Australia’s Matildas charge into Women’s World Cup quarterfinals

Australia's Matildas are through to the FIFA Women's World Cup quarterfinals after recording a 2-0 victory over Denmark in Sydney.

Melbourne funeral director Peter Tziotzis denies stealing jewellery, clothing from dead woman

Melbourne funeral director, Peter Tziotzis, has denied stealing jewellery and clothing from a dead woman in a statement on Thursday.

Seven jailed for life for murder of Greek football fan Alkis Kampanos

Seven out of the 12 defendants convicted for the murder of 19 year old Alkis Kampanos in February 2021 have been sentenced to life.