We had an absolutely fantastic experience with Blue Island Divers and could not recommend them highly enough. From the moment we arrived, Gary and Laura made us feel genuinely welcome. Their warmth, friendliness, and professionalism created a relaxed atmosphere that made the whole day enjoyable from start to finish. The cavern dive was the highlight of the trip and far exceeded my expectations. The dive site was beautiful, with crystal-clear water, fascinating rock formations, and an incredible amount of marine life. We saw a wide variety of fish and experienced an underwater world that was even more impressive than I had imagined. Exploring the cavern was truly unforgettable and one of the best diving experiences I have ever had. What made the day even more special was that my girlfriend, who did not dive, also had an amazing time on the boat. The staff were so welcoming, kind, and engaging that she felt included throughout the trip and thoroughly enjoyed the experience despite not entering the water. Blue Island Divers offers much more than great diving—they create a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Thank you, Gary, Laura, and the whole team for an incredible day. We will definitely be recommending Blue Island Divers to anyone visiting Antiparos and hope to dive with you again in the future!
Blue Island Divers
Antiparos, Greece
Blue Island Divers offers PADI training in Antiparos with 5 course options.
Overview
About Blue Island Divers
Located on the beautiful island of Antiparos, we offer the full range of PADI Freediving courses, from beginner introductions to professional-level training. The island is also home to a variety of exceptional freediving sites, including caverns, swim-throughs, and stunning rock formations, with visibility often exceeding 30 metres. Whether you are taking your first breath-hold dive or looking to develop your skills further, Antiparos provides the perfect setting to begin and continue your freediving journey.
Whether you are looking to discover apnea for the first time or earn a recognised freediving certification in Antiparos, Blue Island Divers provides a structured path. The school accepts both first-time freedivers and experienced divers pursuing deeper progression. Instruction is available in English.
The people behind it
Meet the Founder
Gary
Gary has been a staff instructor for many years, and when PADI introduced their freediving programme, he also became an instructor in that discipline. As freediving grows in popularity, he certifies more students each year. He has now advanced to become a freediver instructor trainer. Additionally, Gary is a yoga teacher and incorporates yoga into his freediving training.
Ideal for
Who should learn freediving at Blue Island Divers
Beginners
Best for first-time divers who want structured progression with instruction in English.
Advanced
Experienced freedivers will appreciate the deep blue-water environment, underwater walls, and opportunities for focused depth training away from crowded dive sites.
Training focus
Best for divers who want a facility-backed setup offering a clear visible ladder from first course to more committed progression.
Why this school
What makes Blue Island Divers stand out
Coaching approach
Instructors focus on building confidence and relaxation before pushing depth limits.
Class format
Sessions are structured around mixed-group training based on student levels and goals. All required freediving equipment is included during the course so you don't have to carry your own.
Course progression
From a first breath-hold to advanced depth training, the school adapts to where you are. Beginner freedivers start with foundational courses, while certified divers refine technique and progress to deeper certifications at their own pace.
Courses & Pricing
Blue Island Divers freediving courses and prices in Antiparos
Blue Island Divers lists 5 course options, priced from EUR 155 up to EUR 800.
This represents a visible ladder from first course to more committed progression tailored for intermediate and advanced progression, all delivered under PADI frameworks.
PADI Basic Freediver
From
~ $169 USD
PADI Freediver course
From
~ $305 USD
PADI Advanced Freediver
From
~ $338 USD
PADI Master Freediver
From
~ $414 USD
Freediver Instructor
From
~ $872 USD
Safety & standards
Freediving safety
Safety equipment and protocols confirmed directly by the school. Ask to verify anything not listed.
Instructors
- First-aid + CPR certified staff
Equipment
- Oxygen on site
- AED (defibrillator) on site
- Surface marker buoy every session
- Lanyard required for depth dives
Training practice
- 1:1 buddy system on all dives
- Pre-dive medical questionnaire
- Risk briefing before each session
- Depth progression based on competence
- Rescue drills practised with students
Training environment
Training sites and conditions in Antiparos
For Static and Dynamic we have access to a pontoon very close to the dive centre with a depth of less than 2 metres and a constant depth distance of approx. 100 metres.
Antiparos gives the school mostly shore-based access to the training site with up to 150m depth available in the broader destination profile.
What you get
What is included in courses
Courses at Blue Island Divers include All required equipment, PADI certification fee, On-line theory, and theory sessions. Equipment is provided as part of the course.
Certification fees, transport to training sites, and other costs may be included or separate depending on the course.
Dive conditions
Learn to freedive in Antiparos
Antiparos offers mostly shore-based access to the training site and a salt-water training setup and sets the water profile for Blue Island Divers.
Blue Island Divers is based in Antiparos.
Surface water temperature ranges from 16 to 25 °C year-round, with the best window falling in May–October.
Destination
Discover the destination
Learn more about where Blue Island Divers is based — conditions, best season, depth, and more.
Alternatives
Compare Blue Island Divers with other schools in Antiparos
Other freediving schools in Antiparos with listed courses, certifications, and pricing.
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions about Blue Island Divers
Everything you need to know about freediving, training, and choosing the right destination.
01 What certifications does Blue Island Divers offer?
Blue Island Divers offers PADI certification courses. This certification is recognized internationally.
02 How much do courses at Blue Island Divers cost?
Prices at Blue Island Divers start from EUR 85 for entry-level courses and go up to EUR 800 for advanced levels. Course duration ranges from 0.5 day to several days.
03 Who is Blue Island Divers best for?
Blue Island Divers suits divers looking for PADI training in Antiparos. With 5 course levels and instruction in English, it works for both beginners and returning students.
04 Where does Blue Island Divers train?
Blue Island Divers trains in Antiparos, which offers mostly shore-based access to the training site and a salt-water training setup. The main training sites are Paderonisi Cavern, Bubble Reef, Beach House, and St Spiridon.
05 How do I contact or book with Blue Island Divers?
You can book through email at gary@blueisland-divers.gr. Check the website for current course schedules and availability. You can also reach the school by phone at (+30) 6983159452.
06 Is Antiparos a good place to learn freediving?
Antiparos is well-suited to beginners and those looking to earn a freediving certification. The destination offers mostly shore-based access to the training site and a salt-water training setup, making it a practical base for structured apnea training.
Recent Google reviews
What recent students say about Blue Island Divers
Perfect experience with Gary and Laura! I hadn't dived in about 8 years ago was nervous about remembering and getting back into, but they were so welcoming and helpful and patient. I felt immediately at ease and loved the 2 dives - the cave especially was an experience not to be missed! So glad I found such a friendly and expert dive centre and would recommend to anyone. Bonus points too for having equipment in such perfect condition!
Great, great, great experience! Being our first time diving, Gary and Laura made it both super safe and special.