The mysterious allure of the deep and life in the depths of the sea have kindled the imagination of many, but only few have the ability to experience them. Underwater photography, however, has brought the wondrous world of the deep closer to the 'landlubbers'.

The Greek seas are rich in such photographic material, and underwater photography in Greece was permitted, through legislation, just a few years ago, according to the president of the Kavala-based Panhellenic Center for Underwater Photography Research and Technology, Ioannis Stamatiadis.

Taking advantage of the 2005 legislation allowing recreational diving throughout the country, with the exception of designated archaeological areas, the local government administrations in Northern Greece have launched a campaign to attract "diving tourists".

The local government of Kavala, northern Greece's second largest city and the principle seaport of eastern Macedonia, is organising the 1st International Underwater Photography Competition, with the top four entrants overall winning a week-long, all expenses paid diving holiday in the town of Limenaria on the nearby island of Thassos.

The competition is open to divers over the age of 18, who must submit three entries to the Center by August 26. The photographs are separated into three categories: Man and the Sea, Microphotography, and Landscapes in the Sea. The entries will be judged by a committee of experts, and the winning entries will be announced on September 8. The winners will enjoy a series of diving events in various areas of the island for underwater photography, as well as excursions for photography on land.