Christ of the Abyss: Snorkeling in San Fruttuoso’s Sacred Waters on a Portofino Boat Tour

Beneath the surface of the Ligurian Sea, just off the coast of San Fruttuoso, lies a spiritual and cultural icon that captivates travelers and divers from around the world—the Christ of the Abyss. This submerged bronze statue has become a symbol of peace, protection, and the mysteries of the deep. It’s also one of the main attractions you can experience up close on a Portofino boat tour from Rapallo.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply eager to glimpse a world below the waves, visiting this remarkable underwater site is a must-do for anyone exploring the Italian Riviera.

What is the Christ of the Abyss?

The Christ of the Abyss (Il Cristo degli Abissi) is a 2.5-meter-tall bronze statue of Jesus Christ, standing on the seabed at a depth of approximately 17 meters. With arms outstretched toward the surface, the statue conveys a sense of calm and blessing to all who encounter it.

Installed in 1954 by Italian diver Duilio Marcante, the statue commemorates those who have lost their lives at sea and celebrates the beauty and sanctity of the underwater world. Over time, it has become both a pilgrimage site for divers and a treasured emblem of maritime peace.

A Snorkeling Adventure Like No Other

While scuba divers can reach the statue directly, snorkelers have an equally thrilling opportunity to explore the surrounding marine environment. The waters around San Fruttuoso are part of the Portofino Marine Protected Area, making them some of the clearest and most ecologically rich in the Mediterranean.

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The site offers easy access for snorkelers to float above rocky reefs, seagrass meadows, and schools of colorful fish. With good visibility and calm conditions, even those new to snorkeling can enjoy the sensation of gliding over a living seascape.

A Portofino boat tour brings you directly to this magical snorkeling destination, where you can dive in and discover it for yourself.

What You’ll See While Snorkeling

Snorkeling in San Fruttuoso is a window into a thriving ecosystem. As you float above the seabed, look out for:

• Sea bream, wrasse, and damselfish darting through the shallows
• Octopuses and moray eels hiding among the rocks
• Starfish and sea urchins clinging to submerged surfaces
• Giant groupers and barracuda in deeper, protected zones
• The shimmering light playing on the sandy floor near the Christ of the Abyss
  

Whether you stay close to the boat or venture toward the abbey’s edge, you’ll find something to marvel at beneath the waves.

Arriving in Style: Your Portofino Boat Tour

The best way to reach San Fruttuoso’s underwater marvel is aboard a Portofino boat tour from Rapallo offered by Orange Wave Sea. This small-group experience ensures comfort, flexibility, and plenty of time to enjoy the reserve at your own pace.

Departing from Rapallo, the tour passes through the stunning Portofino coastline, skimming past iconic towns like Santa Margherita Ligure and the glamorous port of Portofino itself. As the boat rounds the dramatic cliffs, the bay of San Fruttuoso reveals itself—an inviting oasis framed by forested hills and emerald waters.

Once anchored, guests are free to snorkel, swim, or simply soak in the view from the boat’s deck.

Tips for the Best Snorkeling Experience

If you’re planning to snorkel during your Portofino boat tour, here are a few simple tips to make the most of your visit:

• Request snorkeling gear: Orange Wave provides equipment!
• Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the marine environment.
• Swim slowly and calmly: Marine life is more visible and less threatened by gentle movement.
• Ask your guide for tips: They know the best spots for sightings and safety.
• Respect the site: Do not touch the statue or marine creatures, and avoid standing on rocks or reefs.

More Than Just a Dive Spot

What makes the Christ of the Abyss so special isn’t just the diving or snorkeling—it’s the powerful connection between art, nature, and spirituality. Floating above the statue, surrounded by silence and sea life, is a moment of peace that stays with you long after the tour ends.

Coupled with the historical backdrop of the San Fruttuoso Abbey and the unspoiled beauty of the Ligurian coast, this destination offers one of the most moving experiences in the Mediterranean.

Why Choose a Portofino Boat Tour with Orange Wave Sea?

Orange Wave Sea curates high-quality, eco-conscious boat tours that allow you to enjoy the Ligurian Riviera in comfort and style. Their Portofino boat tour from Rapallo is one of the best ways to explore the coast, combining the allure of small fishing towns, protected coves, and rare cultural landmarks like the Christ of the Abyss.

With passionate local guides, personalized service, and small-group dynamics, your journey is both immersive and memorable.

Don’t miss the chance to swim above a legend. Book your Portofino boat tour today and dive into the sacred waters of San Fruttuoso—where history, nature, and tranquility await just beneath the surface.