The Ligurian coastline is not only home to the Italian Riviera but also the heart of the Italian diving scene, thanks in no small part to the rocky cliffs that plunge into the waters and become fascinating canyons to explore. As well as vertical walls and towers, there are wrecks covered in coral, plenty of fish and visibility of 20 to 30 metres. Diving in this area takes place in three main clusters, the marine protected area of Portofino, Arenzano and Sestri Levante, and the west coast.
Diving in Portofino
About 30 kilometres east of the capital Genoa is Portofino. It’s a world-famous town with only around 500 year-round residents, but it’s renowned as the birthplace of Italian diving. Established in 1999, this protected area heavily regulates recreational fishing, making it one of the most biologically diverse diving areas in all of Italy. Punta Secca Carega is a famous dive site here, and the original Christ of the Abyss, a giant underwater statue, is also a must-see in Portofino.
Diving in Arenzano
Arenzano and Sestri Levante are two coastal towns on either side of Genoa. Both offer great diving opportunities in the Ligurian Sea. Both are known to have large shipwrecks to explore, and the surrounding seas have been a very active port for the town of Gerona for a very long time. Among the wrecks are merchant ships, steamers and warships from Italy, France, Germany and others. Visibility in the area is relatively good, with wrecks ranging from 20 to 60 plus metres deep.
Diving the west coast of Liguria
On the quieter west coast of Liguria, you can find a much less crowded diving experience than you will find at the major dive centre of Portofino. There are many quaint fishing and beach towns with great accommodation and dive schools. The underwater area has some great reefs as well as a few wrecks. On the west coast of Liguria there are large, dramatic drops which makes for some very interesting marine life and a great place for underwater photography.
The programme for the day is tailored to your requirements.
We can also arrange transfers for ease of travel.
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