Explore Catania
Catania is the second largest city in Sicily, known as the cool and chaotic younger brother of the more aristocratic Palermo. It stands beneath the hulking mass of Italy’s largest volcano - Mount Etna, from whom Catania has suffered several devastating eruptions over the years. Found on the east coast of the island, it overlooks the gorgeous Ionian Sea and it’s sparkling blue light echoes around the city.
Scuba diving in Catania is a popular pastime. There are plenty of dive centres and dive resorts to choose from, many of which offer dive courses from beginner all the way up to professional levels. Some dive centres even offer technical diving qualifications. There are some liveaboards operating around Sicily, but it is more common to stay within Catania and dive.
Catania diving is varied and has many options. There are complex cave systems to explore, wrecks, marine parks, walls and both shore and boat dives to enjoy.
Top Catania Dive Sites
1. Shrimp Cave
This site is named for the many tiny red shrimp found inside its depths, starting at 25m. Divers can explore a passageway lined with sponges, eels, scorpionfish, and lobsters leading to a cavern. The adventure level is advanced, suitable for scuba diving. The cave offers a unique underwater experience with its vibrant marine life.
2. The Canyons
One of Sicily's best dive spots, The Canyons features two parallel cliffs descending to 38m. Divers will encounter colorful corals and deep cracks teeming with marine creatures. This advanced dive is ideal for scuba diving, offering an impressive underwater landscape and abundant sea life.
3. La Tavernetta
Descending gently from 18 to 30m, La Tavernetta is home to various marine life and the ancient wreck of The Vassalluzzo. At 24m, a Madonna statue resides within a small cave. This site is suitable for scuba diving at an intermediate level, offering historical intrigue and diverse sea life.
4. I Faraglioni di Ciclopi
Located in the Cyclopean Isles, these basalt sea stacks feature stunning lava arches and occasional sightings of eagle rays. Nudibranchs are abundant, making it a favorite for photographers. This site is accessible for both scuba diving and freediving, providing a breathtaking underwater landscape.
5. Le Grottazze
A series of stunning grottoes filled with big groupers, octopuses, and morays await divers. This site offers an easy to intermediate scuba diving experience, showcasing vibrant marine life and unique formations. It's a captivating dive for those interested in exploring underwater grottoes.