Abyss Diving Center - Portofino & Liguria

We really like the Abyss Diving Center site, not for a natural reef, but for a unique dive on a sunken barge. It’s certainly not a tropical reef, but you’ll feel the history in the cold, clear Mediterranean water. The barge sits upright, pretty intact, and while it’s not enormous, there’s enough structure to make a good circuit. You can peer into open hatches, or swim along the deck where groups of damsel fish flit in and out of the shadows. What makes this spot shine for us is the life that’s claimed the wreck. Pink sea fans sprout from the metal, their delicate branches swaying with the gentle surge. Look closer and you'll spot scarlet coral and sunset cup coral adding splashes of colour. We’ve often seen dusky groupers lurking in the deeper sections, and if you’re patient, you might spot a Mediterranean slipper lobster tucked away. It’s an easy dive, good for anyone comfortable with a wreck, and a great way to experience a different side of Portofino diving.

Location
Portofino & Liguria, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
44.348990, 9.234085
Type
wreck

Wreck History - Abyss Diving Center

Vessel Type
unknown

This entry refers to the "Abyss Diving Center," a dive operation located in the world-famous Portofino Marine Protected Area in Liguria, Italy, not a specific shipwreck. This region of the Ligurian Sea is celebrated for its dramatic underwater topography, crystal-clear waters, and incredible biodiversity, making it one of the premier diving destinations in the Mediterranean.

Divers visiting the area through a center like Abyss can explore a variety of stunning sites, from steep drop-offs covered in red gorgonians to shallow coves teeming with fish. The area is also home to the iconic submerged bronze statue, "Christ of the Abyss." While the waters off Portofino do hold some historic wrecks, this listing points to a gateway for exploring the region's vibrant natural underwater heritage rather than a sunken vessel itself.

Marine Protected Area: Fondali Golfo di Rapallo

Nearby Dive Sites in Portofino & Liguria

Nearest Dive Centres to Abyss Diving Center

Marine Life in Portofino & Liguria

Home to 73 recorded species including 37 reef fish, 9 sharks & rays, 8 whales & dolphins, 4 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 hard corals, 3 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species