Pinnacles, caves, reefs as well as shipwrecks and archaeological sites are what to expect to visit in Sicily.
Fascinating dive destinations are the islands scattered along its coast, most of which are volcanic, with walls formed by lava and covered in gorgonian sea fans and bright coloured sponges such as in Pantelleria or in the Aeolian Islands. Great biodiversity occurs in the Marine Protected Areas. Ustica Island is renowned for its abundant marine life; the Aegadian Islands offers an impressive morphology of the seabed, as well as the Pelagian islands in the very south, where you are more likely to encounter large pelagic marine life.
Palermo, Siracusa, Messina and Catania offer also challenging scuba experiences for shipwrecks, breath-taking caves and thrilling ancient remains.
Diving can be done on a year-round basis although water temperature can get a bit chilly at 59°F (15°C) in the winter compared to 77-85°F (25-29°C) in the summer months. The best time to visit is during April to November if you opt for a stay on the main island, as you can combine your vacation with other cultural and naturalistic inland attractions, while better during May to October on the little islands and archipelagos for optimal conditions.
Visibility is often very good and can stretch up to 130ft (40m). Some dive sites around Sicily experience swift currents but many are accessible to new divers.
Find local PADI dive shops and explore the top dive sites with our map.
International airlines fly directly to Catania - Fontanarossa Airport, from where you can reach the areas of Messina and Siracusa; Palermo - Punta Raisi Airport and Trapani - Birgi Airport serve better the northwest area of Sicily.
Get to Ustica Island, Aeolian Islands and Aegadian Islands via ferry or hydrofoil.
There are overnight ferries as well as domestic flights to Lampedusa and Pantelleria.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Mare Nostrum Diving Palermo. Disclaimer
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