Olous – Guided Snorkelling Excursion to Discover Olous Sunken Ancient City

Uncover the secrets of the past by embarking on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure to the sunken ancient city of Olous. Just 2-3 feet underwater, this captivating archaeological site offers a glimpse into a bygone era, where knowledgeable guides provide insights into the city’s rich history and the diverse marine life that now thrives amidst the ruins. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, this personalized excursion promises an intimate and awe-inspiring encounter with the wonders of underwater archaeology, leaving you eager to discover more about this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• Guided snorkeling excursion to explore the remnants of the ancient Dorian city of Olous, located just 2-3 feet below the water’s surface.
• Small group size of up to eight participants for an intimate and educational experience led by knowledgeable guides.
• Snorkelers can closely examine the captivating underwater archaeological site and learn about the region’s rich history.
• Comprehensive snorkeling equipment and instruction provided, making the activity suitable for both experienced and first-time snorkelers.
• Convenient meeting and pickup arrangements, with moderate physical fitness required to fully enjoy the excursion.

Overview of the Olous Excursion

The guided snorkeling excursion to Olous, a Dorian city that sank after an earthquake around the second century AD, allows visitors to explore the remnants located 2-3 feet (50-80 cm) below the surface, which is ideal for snorkeling but too shallow for scuba diving.

With a maximum group size of eight participants, the excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the submerged ruins.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides a rundown of the site’s history and a chance to observe the diverse marine life that has taken up residence in the ancient city.

Exploring the Sunken Ancient City

Donning their snorkeling gear, participants embark on an immersive journey to explore the captivating ruins of the sunken ancient city of Olous.

Mere feet below the surface, the remnants of this Dorian city come into view, offering a rare opportunity to witness history firsthand. Guided by experienced instructors, snorkelers navigate through the submerged streets and structures, marveling at the architectural details and imagining the vibrant community that once thrived here.

The clarity of the water allows for exceptional visibility, enabling participants to closely examine the site’s artifacts and marine life that have made the sunken city their home.

This unique excursion transports adventurers back in time, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich history and the resilience of the natural world.

Snorkeling Equipment and Techniques

Comprehensive snorkeling equipment, including fins, masks, and snorkels, equips participants for their immersive exploration of the sunken ruins.

Experienced guides provide thorough instruction on proper snorkeling techniques, ensuring participants’ safety and comfort as they venture beneath the waves. The guides demonstrate how to clear one’s mask, breathe through the snorkel, and kick efficiently to conserve energy.

Participants learn to maintain buoyancy and navigate the underwater environment, allowing them to fully focus on the captivating sights of the ancient city.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable staff, even first-time snorkelers can confidently explore the submerged Dorian ruins, making the most of this unique educational adventure.

Meeting and Pickup Arrangements

Participants can meet directly at the Blue Dolphin Diving Center in Elounda or request pickup from within the Elounda area, with the activity ending back at the meeting point.

The pickup service is a convenient option for those who don’t want to make their own way to the center.

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Although the excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s easily reached by public transportation.

Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness, with the minimum age depending on their experience and the weather conditions on the day.

Confirmation and Accessibility Details

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Though the excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s easily reached via public transportation. Guests should possess a moderate level of physical fitness, with the minimum age depending on their experience and the prevailing weather conditions.

The snorkeling adventure is non-refundable, and cancellation doesn’t qualify for a refund. However, the experience is worth the investment.

Guests can look forward to:

1. Exploring the remnants of the sunken Dorian city of Olous.

2. Learning about the site’s rich history from knowledgeable guides.

3. Encountering diverse marine life while snorkeling.

4. Engaging presentations that enhance the overall experience.

Physical Fitness and Age Requirements

Moderate physical fitness is required for the Olous snorkeling excursion, as the activity involves navigating the submerged ruins. Participants must be comfortable swimming and snorkeling for the duration of the tour. The minimum age for the activity is determined based on participants’ experience and prevailing weather conditions.

Fitness Level	Swimming Ability	Snorkeling Experience	Minimum Age
Moderate	Comfortable for 1-2 hours	Beginner or intermediate	12 years

The guides are well-equipped to teach proper snorkeling techniques to those new to the activity. However, a certain level of physical readiness is necessary to fully enjoy the unique exploration of the ancient sunken city.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

This snorkeling excursion to Olous has a non-refundable policy, as cancellations don’t qualify for a refund. The tour operator needs to plan and organize each trip carefully, so they can’t offer refunds for last-minute cancellations.

However, they do provide flexibility in a few ways:

1. You’ll receive a confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

2. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Blue Dolphin Diving Center in Elounda.

3. Pickup is available within the Elounda area.

4. The activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Participant Reviews and Experiences

According to the 15 reviews, the Olous snorkeling excursion has a rating of 4.5 stars, with participants highlighting the knowledgeable guides, diverse marine life, and engaging presentations as key highlights of the experience.

Reviewers praised the unique opportunity to explore the remnants of the ancient sunken city while snorkeling, calling it a truly immersive and memorable adventure.

Many expressed a desire to return for additional diving experiences, eager to further uncover the secrets of Olous.

The overall positive feedback reflects the excursion’s ability to provide a captivating and educational encounter with the underwater archaeological site, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the region’s rich history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants can use their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides comprehensive gear including fins, mask, snorkel, and wetsuit. Using the provided equipment ensures proper fit and quality for the excursion.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Individuals With Disabilities?

The Olous snorkeling excursion may not be wheelchair accessible, so individuals with disabilities should contact the tour operator to discuss any special accommodations or alternative experiences that may be available.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Excursion?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the duration of the excursion based on the information provided. The tour details indicate it’s a guided snorkeling experience with a fixed schedule and duration.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Smaller Group Size?

Yes, you can request a private tour or smaller group size. The tour operator offers a maximum group size of 8 participants, but they may accommodate private tours or smaller groups upon request, depending on availability and additional fees.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Extras Not Included in the Package?

The package doesn’t include any additional costs or extras. It covers all the necessary equipment and services for the guided snorkeling excursion. Participants only need to bring their own swimwear and a towel.

Recap

The Olous Guided Snorkeling Excursion offers a captivating opportunity to discover the sunken ancient city of Olous.

With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, guests can intimately explore the captivating ruins while developing their snorkeling skills.

This unique experience caters to both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, making it an ideal choice for those eager to uncover the wonders of underwater archaeology.