Diving the Ionian: Kefalonia's Underwater World
Kefalonia does not shout about its diving the way some destinations do, but those who venture beneath the surface of its clear Ionian waters consistently come away impressed. The combination of excellent visibility — often 30 metres or more — dramatic underwater topography and rich marine life makes it one of the best diving destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The two main diving bases on the island are Agia Efimia, a small harbour village on the northeast coast, and Sami, the island's main port, about 8 km to the south. Both have professional dive centres offering courses from beginner to divemaster level, guided dives and equipment hire.
Key Dive Sites
The Blue Cave (Agia Efimia): The signature dive of northern Kefalonia. This natural underwater cave system opens beneath the limestone cliffs near Agia Efimia — shafts of light filter through ceiling openings, creating intense blue illumination inside the cave chambers. Maximum depth around 20 metres; suitable for Open Water divers and above.
The WWII Wreck (near Sami): The waters off Sami hide the remains of a Second World War vessel encrusted with sponges and corals, inhabited by a resident colony of grouper. The wreck lies at 25–35 metres — suitable for Advanced Open Water divers.
The Wall (Agia Efimia): A dramatic vertical wall descending to beyond 40 metres running along the coast north of Agia Efimia. Scorpionfish, moray eels and large octopus are common residents; in summer, schools of barracuda occasionally pass.
Myrtos Bay: The deep, sheltered bay below the famous Myrtos beach offers drift diving along its rocky walls, with good numbers of dentex, amberjack and sea bream.
Marine Life
Kefalonia's waters are rich in Mediterranean species: octopus, sea bream, wrasse, scorpionfish, moray eels, grouper and — with a little luck — the occasional loggerhead sea turtle. Nudibranchs are diverse and plentiful for macro photographers.
Practical Information
- Dive centres: Multiple PADI and SSI-certified centres in Agia Efimia and Sami
- Guided dives: 2-tank guided dive from €60–80 per person
- Courses: Open Water certification typically 3–4 days, €350–450
- Visibility: 20–40 metres; best in June and September
- Water temperature: 18°C in May, 26°C in August, 22°C in October
- Best months: May–June and September–October for optimal visibility and smaller groups
Getting There
Both Agia Efimia and Sami are easily reached from Argostoli (40–50 minutes by car). Many dive centres offer pick-up from Argostoli-area hotels.
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