Relitti di Salò - Portofino & Liguria

The Relitti di Salò is a standout for us in the Portofino area, particularly if you're looking for an easy wreck dive with a bit of history. Not one wreck, but several small fishing boats, sunk deliberately in the 1970s to create an artificial reef. Dropping down to 22 metres, you’ll find them spread out on the sandy bottom, not in pieces, but mostly intact, often resting on their sides. We love finning around the individual wrecks, peering into the small cabins or imagining nets still strung from the booms. The wrecks themselves are quite humble, but they’re completely blanketed in red and yellow gorgonians and sponges. Look closely and you’ll spot scorpionfish tucked into crevices, moray eels peeking from under hulls, and schools of damselfish flitting through the superstructure. It's a surprisingly colourful scene, especially when the sun hits just right, illuminating the soft corals. This site is perfect for newer wreck divers or anyone wanting a relaxed dive without strong currents. Our favourite time to visit is late morning; the visibility tends to be at its best then, and the light penetration is just beautiful. It’s a gentle introduction to wreck diving, with plenty of life to keep things interesting.

Location

Portofino & Liguria, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

45.596800, 10.522100

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

22m

Difficulty

Beginner