The new bill prepared by the Ministry of
Mercantile Marine regarding recreational diving
in Greece, is the outcome of the Hellenic
Government’s Strategic Plan for positioning
Greece prominently into the world’s scuba diving
industry, and in addition for boosting the
country’s alternative tourism.
The new diving law is fully in accord with
the EU Standards regarding recreational diving,
which have actually been in force since early
2004. Moreover the unreasonable restrictions
imposed in the past by archeologists are now
being successfully modified and the concept of
Diving Parks has been firmly established.
Notably, the legislative framework provides
adequate environment protection, ensures the
appropriate respect for the underwater precious
antiquities, as well as the safety and adequate
professional skills of the divers, who will
enjoy clear waters, plus unique marine life and
other hitherto unutilized underwater
attractions.
An accreditation system consonant to EU
directives is being established for the Scuba
Divers’ Training Programs, for the appropriate
certification of various Diver Training
Organizations, as well as for the Diving
Services Providers. The Diving Services are
classified according to their type, they are
certified on an individual basis by an
accredited products certification agency and
each of them will be licensed by the competent
Port Authority. There are now clear requirements
as specified by law, to the effect that only
those holding the necessary license will be able
to provide Diving Services.
Moreover, the modus operandi for the Diving
Industry is now clearly prescribed, appropriate
records will be maintained at the Ministry of
Mercantile Marine, and violators of the existing
rules will be subject to severe penalties.
The Republic of Greece has several advantages
as a holiday destination for divers: safety as a
EU member, short flight distances for European
travelers, excellent climate and long diving
season, same currency with many other EU
countries, and other amenities.
The multitude of active European and American
divers, as well as those aspiring newcomers who
wish to experience the magic undersea world and
receive competent training in scuba diving, will
find themselves welcomed in the best possible
environment for pursuing their exciting hobby.
Finally, the renewed availability of our
Nation’s magnificent undersea world to the
Diving Industry necessitates its strict
adherence to services of the highest possible
quality, for the pleasure of our visitors and
the prosperity of our society as well. |
| If you like me to assist you with your
diving vacation choice, please
send me an e-mail with your
questions and enquiries. I will be
glad to reply and assist you, wherever I
possibly can. |
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