MYRTHIANOS PLAKIAS SNORKEL FIELD GUIDE
Down the Gorge and Into the Falls: Snorkelling the Kourtaliotiko Springs
A guided, family-friendly half-day outing that combines a steep gorge descent with wetsuit-assisted snorkelling in natural spring-fed waterfalls, useful as a practical field guide to what to expect.
Down the Gorge and Into the Falls: Snorkelling the Kourtaliotiko Springs.
At Kourtaliotiko, mineral-rich spring water pours from granite walls into a narrow gorge; this trip pairs a confident 300-step descent and riverside wading with guided snorkelling through crystal-clear pools and cascading falls, all run by local guides who provide gear, transport and a Cretan lunch.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Waterfalls and Granite Walls
Mineral water bursts from overgrown rock faces to form countless small waterfalls and a dramatic main fall — the trip brings you close enough to feel the spray and see the springs up close.
Gorge Descent and Riverside Wading
Participants walk down roughly 300 steps into the Kourtaliotiko gorge, then wade along the river to a sheltered 'laguna' where snorkelling begins and guides lead small groups toward the deeper pools.
Wetsuits, Cretan Lunch and Photos
Wetsuits, masks and other necessary gear are provided; the outing ends back at the dive school with a Cretan lunch in an olive garden while guides show photos taken during the trip.
What the day feels like
How the Day Feels
The day moves in distinct beats: an efficient base check-in and kit fit at Dive2gether Crete, a short drive to the gorge, a physical descent on stone steps into cool shade, slow river wading to a green, waterfall-carved hollow, then guided snorkels through transparent spring water toward the largest fall before a relaxing climb back and a communal meal.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should skip it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is run as a half-day program; plan for roughly a 5-hour commitment including briefing, transfer, activity and return.
Bring swimwear, a towel and dry clothes to change into; wetsuits, masks and other necessary gear are provided and you will be fitted before departure. Small valuables can be left at the dive school.
The operator provides transport to and from the gorge so you avoid parking hassles: a driver will drop you at the start and pick you up at the end of the route.
Light refreshments are offered at arrival and the outing concludes with a Cretan lunch in the dive school’s olive garden while guides share photos from the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Dive2gether Crete, where you are fitted with wetsuits and briefed before departure.
How long does the trip take?
Expect about a 5-hour outing from check-in through return to the dive school.
Is there an age limit for participants?
The experience is presented as family-friendly; children are accepted (operators reference family orientation and age guidance in trip materials).
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes — the trip is not suitable for people who cannot swim; snorkelling in deeper pools is a core element of the outing.
What about mobility limitations?
This trip involves descending and later climbing roughly 300 steps and wading through cold water; it is not fit for people with leg or knee problems.
Is equipment provided?
Guides provide wetsuits, masks and necessary snorkel equipment and will fit you before the trip; small items of value can be left at the dive school.