See Liguria, Swim Liguria: Snorkeling & Diving Adventures with Orange Wave

The Ligurian Riviera is stunning above the surface, with its colorful villages, lush pine-covered hills, and sparkling sea. But beneath the waves lies another world—one filled with marine life, underwater landmarks, and natural beauty that only a few travelers take the time to explore.

This part of Italy offers some of the finest snorkeling and diving spots in the Mediterranean. And the best way to reach them is by sea, with a boat tour designed to bring you directly to the heart of these underwater treasures. With Orange Wave, your experience will be authentic, safe, and unforgettable.

Why Choose Portofino for Snorkeling

The stretch of coastline between Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso is part of the Portofino Marine Protected Area—an exceptional ecosystem protected for its biodiversity, water clarity, and unique underwater landscapes.

This zone is perfect for snorkeling thanks to:

• Clear, calm waters with excellent visibility
• Abundant sea life, including bream, octopus, and starfish
• Natural underwater rock formations and seagrass meadows
• Historic dive sites, including underwater sculptures
• Secluded coves accessible only by boat

Orange Wave’s boat tours are designed to bring you to these unique locations in total comfort, allowing you to snorkel in areas far from crowded beaches and tourist routes.

The Best Snorkeling Spots Around Portofino

San Fruttuoso Bay and the Christ of the Abyss

San Fruttuoso is a small, hidden bay surrounded by mountains and Mediterranean vegetation. It’s home to one of the most iconic underwater sites in Italy: the Christ of the Abyss. This bronze statue, located 17 meters below the surface, was placed in 1954 to honor those lost at sea and is visible on clear days even from the surface.

The waters around San Fruttuoso are calm and inviting, offering rich marine life and underwater landscapes ideal for snorkeling. Arriving by boat allows you to access the quietest corners of the bay, away from the main landing points.

Baia di Paraggi

Nestled between Santa Margherita and Portofino, Paraggi Bay is known for its emerald waters and shallow seabed. Protected within the marine reserve, it is one of the most accessible and enjoyable snorkeling locations on the Ligurian coast.

Seagrass meadows and rocky ledges provide habitat for small fish, making it an excellent site for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. From your boat, you can easily slip into the clearest parts of the bay and enjoy a peaceful swim surrounded by nature.

Punta Chiappa

Punta Chiappa offers a more rugged experience. Here, the cliffs plunge directly into the sea, creating steep underwater walls and crevices that attract a wide range of marine species.

This area is perfect for those looking for a more adventurous snorkeling session. It’s harder to access from land, but with a boat tour, you can stop in the best spots and explore freely, guided by experienced captains who know the safest and most scenic routes.

Cala dell’Oro

One of the most secluded and untouched coves in the area, Cala dell’Oro is located within the most protected section of the marine park. The bay is inaccessible from land, making it a pristine and tranquil place to snorkel.

Its name, meaning “Golden Cove,” hints at the special atmosphere here—quiet, wild, and beautifully preserved. Underwater, you’ll find clear waters, rocky seabeds, and peaceful silence that’s rarely found in tourist areas.

Hidden Inlets Between Rapallo and Portofino

Beyond the famous locations, Orange Wave’s local captains can guide you to smaller, lesser-known inlets scattered between Rapallo, Santa Margherita, and Portofino. These small bays, often unnamed and invisible from land, offer perfect conditions for snorkeling: crystal-clear waters, minimal boat traffic, and plenty of marine life.

These hidden spots are accessible only by sea and are ideal for spontaneous swims, relaxing in total privacy, or discovering unique underwater rock formations and coastal habitats.

Why Choose Orange Wave for Your Snorkeling Tour

At Orange Wave, we offer more than just boat rentals. Our tours are crafted to give you access to the most exclusive and beautiful parts of the Ligurian coast, with a strong focus on quality, comfort, and local knowledge.

With our snorkeling-focused boat tours, you benefit from:

• Access to protected snorkeling areas only reachable by sea
• Snorkeling gear provided onboard
• Local captains with deep knowledge of the marine park
• Flexible itineraries tailored to sea and weather conditions
• Private or small-group formats for a more personal experience

Whether you’re seeking a full day of swimming and snorkeling or a shorter escape with a few selected stops, we create itineraries that match your preferences and rhythm.

Snorkeling for Everyone

Our snorkeling tours are suitable for all levels. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or simply want to float and enjoy the colors of the sea, our team will make sure your time on the water is safe and enjoyable.

We also offer add-ons like aperitivo on board or sunset returns, allowing you to extend your snorkeling experience into a full day of discovery and relaxation.

Book Your Snorkeling Adventure Today

Exploring the underwater world of Liguria is one of the most unique and rewarding experiences you can have along the Italian coast. With Orange Wave, you’ll avoid the crowds and discover a side of the Riviera that most visitors never see.

From the Christ of the Abyss to the quiet waters of Paraggi and the golden silence of Cala dell’Oro, our snorkeling tours let you experience Liguria not just as a place to see, but as a sea to swim.

Reserve your spot now and let us take you to the Riviera’s most beautiful, hidden, and unforgettable snorkeling destinations.

Book your snorkeling tour with Orange Wave