Explore Western Coast of Liguria

The Western Coast of Liguria offers an enchanting diving experience where tranquility meets rich marine life. Unlike the bustling dive spots of Portofino, this quieter region provides a more intimate connection with the sea. Divers can explore quaint fishing villages and beach towns that serve as perfect gateways to the underwater wonders. The area boasts vibrant reefs, shipwrecks, and dramatic underwater cliffs that attract diverse marine species, making it a haven for underwater photographers.

Whether you prefer shore dives or boat excursions, the Western Coast of Liguria accommodates all styles, ensuring a versatile adventure for every diver. Seasonal variations bring a dynamic shift in marine life, from colorful schools of fish to the occasional encounter with larger species. The dramatic drops and varied topography beneath the waves promise thrilling explorations, adding an element of surprise and excitement to each dive. This region stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its welcoming dive schools and hospitable accommodations, making it a delightful, less crowded alternative for divers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Places to Explore

Noli

Noli is an idyllic coastal village with a rich medieval maritime history. Sitting upon a bay of the Ligurian Sea in Italy, Noli borders the island of Bergeggi in the east and Capo Noli in the west, where some of the areas best diving sites are found. Scuba diving in Noli often starts straight from the shore at Capo Noli while heading out by boat to the Marine Protected Area of Bergeggi will find divers exploring rugged ravines and sandy seabed in search of barracuda, octopus and the ever-colourful nudibranchs.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★☆ Capo Noli

Sand esplanade that descends to a depth of 40 m interspersed with rocks and boulders that descend towards the bottom where there is scattered debris. After an initial gradual slope, the esplanade descends steeply to the bottom, almost forming a wall of sand.

2,900
Logs
937
Divers
16.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Secca delle Stelle

A dive dedicated to beginners on a seabed that extends over a discreet extension between 14 and 24 meters where the best-known feature is a spectacular rock pyramid entirely covered in Parazoanthus.

1,168
Logs
609
Divers
22.0 m
⌀ Depth
14.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Franata

As you enter this site you will find a steep slope of rocks reaching a maximum depth of 30 meters. This site is full of burrows and holes, ideal habitat for countless species of marine animals. A dive that never disappoints.

1,355
Logs
568
Divers
21.0 m
⌀ Depth
14.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Nemo’s Garden

In the bay of Noli, in Liguria, at eight meters of seabed, vegetables and aromatic herbs are grown in five underwater greenhouses anchored to the sandy seabed.

1,719
Logs
646
Divers
15.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Pifferaio

From here we enter the full protection zone of the Bergeggi MPA, a dive that develops to a maximum depth of 18 m with the wall on the left, we encounter a wall full of small burrows and a small inlet that often holds unexpected surprises.

3,823
Logs
1,483
Divers
17.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★☆☆ Secca Bibiz

A series of large rocks ranging from 40 to 52 meters allows for 20/30 minutes of truly unique diving. Dens and inlets are excellent refuges for all species of marine animals, even for unusual encounters. expert diving with an XR SSI certification or equivalent.

116
Logs
43
Divers
44.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Secca delle Spugne

About 500 m. from the south side of the island of Bergeggi Marine Protected Area, we find 5 large rocks scattered on the seabed spaced by stretches of sand, the minimum depth is 42 m. and the maximum of 46 m. it is a dive in which the water is very often clean and sometimes we can find curren

142
Logs
53
Divers
38.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Corallo Nero

The dive takes place at a depth varying from 32 to 38 meters and is therefore reserved for DEEP Dive certified divers. The environment to be explored is full of colors and life.

218
Logs
109
Divers
36.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★★ BR-20 Wreck

It is the wreck of the only example of the Cicogna bomber still existing at sea, sunk on the night of June 13, 1945 on a sandy bottom at a depth of 47 metres. The BR-20 was equipped with two twin star engines of 1000 hp, each which still have their 24 cylinders.

110
Logs
73
Divers
45.0 m
⌀ Depth
16.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Tyfliss Wreck

Wreck of a French transport ship sunk on a seabed of 50 meters in navigation position with the deck at around 42 metres, intact on the stern part and cracked on the bow part, this is clearly visible in the vertical position, two large open holds make it passable the entire wreck.

178
Logs
72
Divers
48.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Canalone

A beautiful vertical wall between 20 and 30 meters covered with yellow sea daisies, continuing towards the west the slope is very gentle, and leads us to another group of rocks that slopes with small jumps again towards 30 meters.

7,176
Logs
1,713
Divers
22.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Garage

Large rock with the top at 20 meters and reaches 30 meters depth in a southerly direction. To the north another inverted cone-shaped rock completes the underwater exploration area.

143
Logs
85
Divers
26.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Biboz

A large rock that develops from 38 meters to 52 meters. A 20 minutes or more dive, depending on the configuration and dive plan chosen by the divers. However, the dive is simple in execution as you have to circumnavigate the rock at different depths.

30
Logs
11
Divers
49.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Canalone

One of the most interesting points of the shore of St. Stefano, since you dive between a canyon formed in the rocks. The walls of the reef are covered with red fans.

474
Logs
230
Divers
24.0 m
⌀ Depth
14.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Croce

A memorial cross lies on a sandy bottom at 32m deep. On the right hand side, a rocky ridge covered by red sea fans rises up to 24m deep. It is the best known dive of the shoal and takes its name from a commemorative iron cross over four meters high resting on the bottom about ten years ago.

1,278
Logs
392
Divers
28.0 m
⌀ Depth
17.0 m
⌀ Visibility

Diving in Western Coast of Liguria

The Western Coast of Liguria offers a captivating mix of dive sites that cater to both novices and seasoned divers. Among its treasures is the Haven Wreck, an oil tanker that sank in 1991, presenting an extraordinary site for advanced wreck divers. Located near Arenzano, the wreck is teeming with marine life, offering a unique underwater experience. Another notable site is the Portofino Marine Protected Area, renowned for its vibrant reefs and walls featuring colorful sponges and diverse fish species. For those preferring shore dives, Noli offers easy access to underwater adventures with its rocky seabed and thriving marine life. This area is ideal for night dives, where divers can witness the nocturnal habits of creatures like octopuses and eels. The balance between shore and liveaboard diving options makes Liguria's western coast a versatile destination. Whether exploring from the comfort of a liveaboard or embarking on spontaneous shore dives, divers will find a wealth of experiences to enjoy.

The best Months to dive in Western Coast of Liguria

The Western Coast of Liguria offers divers an enticing experience throughout the year, with conditions varying by season. In summer, water temperatures range from 22°C–25°C/72°F–77°F, providing comfortable diving conditions with visibility averaging 15–20 meters/49–66 feet. The calm seas make this an ideal time for both beginners and experienced divers. In winter, water temperatures drop to 13°C–15°C/55°F–59°F, with reduced visibility due to stronger winds and currents. Despite the colder conditions, diving is still possible, though it's less favorable compared to the warmer months. Spring and fall offer moderate conditions with temperatures between 16°C–21°C/61°F–70°F, where divers can enjoy decent visibility and fewer crowds. Overall, diving is possible year-round, but summer and early fall are the most recommended periods for optimal conditions.

Statistics

Historical data and trends

Dive Activity & Environmental Conditions

Centers Map

NAUTILUS TDC

Via Gianni Cozzi 1, 18010 Santo Stefano al Mare, IM - ITA

LE CAVALLETTE DIVING SNC

Via Cadorna 13, 17100 Savona, SV - ITA

Diving Center Service Nereo Sub

VIA BERNINZONI 124, 17028 SPOTORNO, SV - ITA

A.S.D. N.S.A. CHIERI

sede legale c/o studio Caputo via Fiume, 9/4, 17100 SAVONA, SV - ITA

Marina Diving Center

Via Madonna del Loreto nr. 2/3, 17025 Loano, SV - ITA

Borgo Marina Diving a.s.d.

Piazza Sant’Antonio, 13, 18100 Imperia, IM - ITA