Paros Channel

The open-water channel between Naxos and Paros acts as a natural funnel for Aegean currents, producing thrilling drift dives past boulder fields and sloping reef walls where pelagic species concentrate in impressive numbers. Loggerhead sea turtles are sighted here regularly, resting on boulders or cruising the mid-water column in the company of large grouper and schools of bream. The channel's strong meltemi winds from July through August create challenging surface conditions, but underwater the current simply amplifies the spectacle.