Explore Scilla and Costa Viola
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Reggio Calabria, "Scilla and Costa Viola" offers a unique diving experience that is nothing short of enchanting. This region, where the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea lead to the Aeolian Islands, is renowned for its vibrant marine life and mesmerizing underwater landscapes. Divers are treated to the "Shoals of Scilla," remarkable rock formations beginning around 20 meters/66 feet below the surface. These underwater mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for both novice and experienced divers, who can explore colorful reefs teeming with marine biodiversity.
The dive sites around Scilla and Costa Viola accommodate a variety of diving styles, from shore dives that offer easy access to spectacular sites, to boat dives that journey to more remote locations. The area is particularly famous for its walls and occasional wrecks, providing intriguing pathways for exploration. Seasonal highlights include encounters with migratory species, adding a dynamic element to the underwater adventure. With consistently warm waters, the region promises an unforgettable dive experience that captivates and inspires all year round.
Dive Activity
Diving in Scilla and Costa Viola
Scilla and Costa Viola in Italy offer a diver's paradise with a blend of spectacular shore and liveaboard diving experiences. Among the top dive sites, the wreck of "U-Boot 455" is a highlight, resting at a depth that challenges experienced divers while revealing a haunting piece of history. For those who prefer shore dives, "Chianalea" provides stunning underwater landscapes with vibrant marine life, making it accessible yet exciting. Unique experiences await at "Capo Vaticano," where night dives unveil the mesmerizing bioluminescence and nocturnal behaviors of underwater creatures. Here, the balance between shore and liveaboard diving is ideal, allowing divers to explore both near and distant sites comfortably. With its rich marine biodiversity and intriguing underwater landmarks, Costa Viola is a must-visit destination for dive enthusiasts.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Scilla and Costa Viola
Scilla and Costa Viola, located in southern Italy, are renowned for their vibrant marine life, making them a popular destination for divers. The waters here are teeming with typical Mediterranean species, including colorful reef fish like the ornate wrasse and damselfish. These fish are commonly seen year-round, providing a consistent attraction for divers exploring the reefs.
Seasonal highlights in this region include sightings of larger marine creatures. During the warmer months, divers might encounter loggerhead turtles, which are known to pass through these waters. Occasionally, eagle rays can also be spotted gliding gracefully over the sandy seabed. While shark sightings are rare, there have been instances of small species, like the smoothhound shark, being observed, particularly in deeper waters. The likelihood of observing these creatures increases during the summer, making this period ideal for divers seeking more diverse encounters.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
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Total number of species: 27
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Barracuda
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Total number of species: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
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Total number of species: 25
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Eagle Ray
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Total number of species: 250
Shutterstock-Henry_and_Laura_Whittaker
Grouper/Basslets
20 Sightings
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Total number of species: 250
iStock-Miguel-Angelo-Silva.
Scorpionfish
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Total number of species: 100
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Parrotfish
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Total number of species: 90
Shutterstock-Levent Konuk
Goatfish
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Total number of species: 3000
SSI-Peter-Schinck
Nudibranch
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Total number of species: 50
Shutterstock_Dewald Kirsten
Sea Wasp
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 7000
iStock-Michael Zeigler
Crab
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Total number of species: 2
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Tarpon
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Total number of species: 3
Shutterstock_Leo Lorenzo
Trumpetfish
2 Sightings
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Total number of species: 80
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Mullet
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The best Months to dive in Scilla and Costa Viola
Scilla and Costa Viola offer year-round diving opportunities, characterized by diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. During summer, water temperatures range from 24°C–28°C/75°F–82°F, providing comfortable conditions for divers. In winter, temperatures drop to 14°C–18°C/57°F–64°F, but diving remains possible with appropriate gear. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters/98 feet, making it a favorite among diving enthusiasts.
Despite favorable conditions throughout the year, divers should be cautious of seasonal currents and winds, particularly the Scirocco winds, which can affect water clarity and safety. The most challenging conditions are usually in early spring when unpredictable weather can lead to reduced visibility. However, with careful planning and flexibility, divers can enjoy the vibrant underwater world of Scilla and Costa Viola in any season.
