Ligaria Beach: Discover Free Diving (Apnea)

Ligaria Beach: Discover Free Diving (Apnea) – A Deep Dive into Calm and Clarity

Imagine floating effortlessly just beneath the surface of the sea, surrounded by vibrant fish and curious sea creatures, all while feeling perfectly relaxed. That’s what a freediving experience at Ligaria Beach offers, and while I haven’t personally done this tour, it certainly looks like a fantastic way to connect with the ocean in a calm, mindful way.

What really draws us in are three standout features: the chance to discover a different way of experiencing the underwater world, the focus on relaxation and personal limits, and the fact that it’s suitable for beginners with no prior experience needed. The only potential consideration is that the activity lasts around 1.5 hours, so if you’re hoping for a full-day adventure, this might feel a tad brief.

This tour is perfect for travelers curious about freediving—whether you’re after a gentle introduction or a way to test your breath-hold abilities—without the need for extensive training. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, calming marine encounter, and aren’t necessarily looking for a high-adrenaline activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Accessible for Beginners: No prior freediving experience necessary.
• Balanced Program: 45 minutes of theory paired with 45 minutes of practical free diving.
• Underwater Encounters: Opportunity to see fish, starfish, octopus, and even a turtle.
• Expert Guidance: Led by multilingual instructors who focus on safety and technique.
• Ideal Setting: Ligaria Beach offers a peaceful, less crowded environment.
• Flexible Options: Private or small group sessions available, with optional transfer service.

What We Love About This Freediving Experience

This tour offers more than just a quick dip into the water. It’s about learning to breathe deeply and move consciously below the surface, which can be deeply calming and empowering. The instructors are praised for their clear explanations and patience, making it perfect for first-timers.

The location at Ligaria Beach is a real highlight—it’s a tranquil spot with not many people, so you’re not fighting crowds or feeling rushed. The bay is teeming with marine life, giving you a chance to spot fish, starfish, octopus, and even a turtle, which adds a magical touch. One reviewer mentioned, “The water was calm, and I loved watching the fish swim around as I practiced.”

On top of that, freediving isn’t just about getting deep; it’s about feeling part of the ocean, hearing its sounds—the munching of fish on coral, the tide pulsing—and experiencing the silence and calm that many find so restorative. This activity can be a perfect way to reconnect with nature and find a moment of peace amidst busy travel plans.

The Itinerary: From Land to Ocean in a Structured Flow

Starting Point and Pickup

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation or meet directly at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria Bay. It’s about 20 minutes from Heraklion, which makes it quite accessible. The meeting point is easy to find via Google Maps, and the activity starts promptly at 10:00 AM, so arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Van Ride to Ligaria

The transport itself is straightforward, with about a 1-hour drive. This gives you a little buffer to relax or ask questions about freediving basics from your guides beforehand.

Theoretical Session

The first 45 minutes are dedicated to learning the fundamentals. Expect clear, simple explanations about breath-hold techniques, safety procedures, and basic theory. Some reviews mention that the instructors “made everything easy to understand,” which is reassuring for nervous beginners.

Practical Freediving

After the theory, it’s into the water! Instructors will guide you through techniques, helping you practice breath-holding and equalization in a safe environment. The calm waters of Ligaria Bay are perfect for building confidence and exploring underwater at your own pace.

Marine Encounters

While the activity is brief, you’ll get to see marine life close-up—from colorful fish to shy octopuses and perhaps a turtle. Many reviewers noted that “the underwater scenery was peaceful and full of life,” making the experience memorable.

Drop-off and Return

The tour ends back at the original meeting point, with multiple drop-off locations available if you’re staying around Crete. The flexibility is a nice touch, especially if you’re planning other activities later in the day.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The cost of $63 per person covers a lot of what makes this experience worth it. You’ll get an instructor, all necessary equipment, and the full theory and practical sessions. And if you opt for transfer, that’s included too, which simplifies planning.

However, underwater pictures are an extra €25, which might be tempting if you want to capture your underwater moments. Keep in mind that the experience is scheduled for a brief 1.5 hours, so it’s suited for those looking for a short but meaningful introduction rather than a full-day adventure.

Practical Tips for Your Freediving Day

Bring your swimwear and towel, and don’t forget sunscreen—the outdoor setting can get warm, and you’ll be exposed to the sun before and after the activity. Comfortable footwear and a hat are also useful for the transfer.

Since no prior freediving course is required, this activity is accessible to most, but pregnant women and children under 10 are advised to avoid it. The group sizes are small or private, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Why Choose This Tour?

This trip strikes a wonderful balance between educational and experiential, making it suitable for those curious about freediving but cautious about diving deep without guidance. The peaceful Ligaria Bay creates a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, and the multilingual instructors ensure clear communication.

For travelers who prefer short, meaningful encounters with marine life in a calm setting, this experience offers genuine value. The focus on breath control and mindfulness can be surprisingly transformative, even in just 90 minutes.

The Sum Up

The Ligaria Beach free diving experience is a compelling choice for anyone interested in exploring the underwater world with minimal impact and a focus on personal well-being. It’s especially well suited for beginners who want a safe, guided introduction to freediving in a tranquil environment.

The combination of beautiful location, expert guidance, and marine encounters makes it a memorable activity that balances education, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to push your limits or simply enjoy the calming effect of the sea, this tour offers a gentle, authentic taste of underwater exploration.

For those seeking a peaceful, beginner-friendly marine activity that leaves plenty of room for awe and discovery, this experience at Ligaria Beach is a smart pick.

FAQ

Is prior freediving experience required?
No, this activity is designed as an introduction, so no previous freediving skills are necessary.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Equipment and safety instructions are provided.

How long does the activity last?
The whole experience is approximately 1.5 hours, with 45 minutes of theory and 45 minutes of practical free diving.

Are there transfer options?
Yes, transfer is included if you select that option, with pickup depending on where you’re staying.

Can I take underwater photos?
Yes, underwater photos can be purchased for 25 euros if you want to save memories of your dive.

Is the activity suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 10 years old, but pregnant women and those with certain health conditions should avoid it.

What marine life might I see?
You might encounter fish, starfish, octopus, and possibly a turtle, depending on the day.

Is the experience private or in groups?
Both private and small group options are available, ensuring personalized attention.

How accessible is the location?
Ligaria Bay is about a 20-minute drive from Heraklion, with a straightforward meeting point at the Eurodiving center.

If you’re seeking a calm, authentic introduction to the underwater world in Crete, this freediving tour at Ligaria Beach could be just what you need. It’s all about gentle exploration, learning, and enjoying the serenity of the sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: