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Explore the Portofino Marine Protected Area: one of the most spectacular dive destinations in the Mediterranean

The Portofino Marine Protected Area was established in 1999 and includes the coastal waters of Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and Camogli. It is one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the Mediterranean, offering exceptional diving opportunities for both recreational and experienced divers.

With its rich marine life, colorful coral walls, caves, and historic wrecks, the park attracts divers from all over the world, as well as marine biologists and researchers studying its unique underwater ecosystems.

Diving Zones in the Portofino Marine Protected Area

The Marine Protected Area is divided into three zones (A, B, and C), each with different levels of environmental protection and diving regulations.

🔴 Zone A – Fully Protected Area

  • Includes Cala dell’Oro, an integral reserve.
  • All activities, including diving, fishing, and anchoring, are prohibited.
  • Access is strictly limited to scientific research conducted in collaboration with the University of Genoa.

🟡 Zone B – Exceptional Diving Sites and Rich Marine Life

  • Located between the Punta del Faro di Portofino and Punta Chiappa.
  • Diving, apnea, and swimming are allowed with authorization.
  • Anchoring is strictly prohibited to protect the seabed.
  • Home to 20 world-class dive sites, each with dedicated mooring points.

What you will see in Zone B

This area is famous for its incredible biodiversity, including:

  • Schools of barracuda, bream, tuna, and amberjacks

  • Large groupers, moray eels, conger eels, and scorpion fish

  • Octopuses, lobsters, and dogfish

  • Sunfish (Mola mola) in May and June

  • An extraordinary variety of nudibranchs and macro life
    The underwater landscape is a breathtaking mix of steep walls covered in red coral, caves, swim-throughs, and rocky formations.

  • You’ll encounter red gorgonians, colonies of red coral, and yellow anemones, creating an unforgettable diving experience.

🟢 Zone C – Open for Diving and Water Activities

  • Covers the waters in front of Portofino, where the seabed is dominated by seagrass meadows.
  • Diving, swimming, sport fishing, and boat anchoring are allowed.

Why Dive in the Portofino Marine Protected Area?

  • One of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean

  • Ideal for both beginners and advanced divers

  • Multi-level dive sites, deep walls, caves, and wrecks

  • Diverse marine life, from macro species to large pelagic fish

  • Easy access from Santa Margherita Ligure and Rapallo
    Whether you’re looking for a recreational dive or a technical dive, the Portofino Marine Protected Area offers an unparalleled underwater experience.

Plan your diving adventure!

Ready to explore one of Italy’s most spectacular dive destinations? Book your dive with us today!

 

 

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