The world that lies submerged by the waters of the Portofino Promontory protected marine area is considered the cradle of Italian divers. The richness of the underwater flora and fauna has always attracted enthusiasts. The mooring system in the protected area makes underwater dives easy in both calm and semi-calm conditions. During rough or slightly rough sea conditions dives can still be carried out in the sheltered areas protected by the Portofino Promontory.

The Isuela: depth of more than 60 m
Amongst the protected dive sites, the Isuela is considered by insiders the most beautiful in all the reserve and perhaps one of the most charming in the whole Mediterranean.

This charm comes for the most part from the extraordinary density and size of the large red horny corals (Paramuricea Clavata) to be found. The entire reef is also rich in red coral (Corallum Rubrum), to be found within the numerous clefts as well as other gorgonias and madreporas. The remarkable slope of the sea floor allows you to reach notable depths (of over 60m) in a very short time.

The Punta della Torretta
Prepare to explore a breathtaking underwater panorama, thanks to the presence of extremely high-density red coral colonies. With just a few strokes you can reach gaudily coloured gorgonia populations. The presence of Posidonia close to the mooring buoy allows novices to the underwater world to observe minute marine organisms with great camouflage capabilities.

The Gonzatti Reef: depth of over 30 m
This takes its name from the underwater pioneer Dario Gonzatti and is situated opposite Punta Carega. From the western side of the reef the wall slips rapidly to a depth of over 20m, forming a channel full of yellow gorgonias (Eunicella Cavolinii) which give way to horny coral as you descend. This area is often inhabited by large specimens of pelagic fish and at over 30 m down it is common to run into large predators.

The Christ of the Abysses
Whilst the dive may not be spectacular in its fauna it is still to be considered one of the most important for its role in diving history. Here you can admire a 2,5 m, 260 kg bronze statue that is more than a mere monument.
 

Professional Fishing. Tonnarella and Mugginara. In the Portofino Marine Reserve some very traditional fishing activities are carried out. At Punta Chiappa a Mugginara (mullet fishery) is in operation with a net posted covering a surface area of 50 m in length and forming a bag.

Tourism Fishing. This is an activity that has been integrated into the professional fishing industry and it allows fishermen to indulge in some tourist or recreational activities, whereby ships take on board people interested in experiencing first hand activities linked to the fishing industry. Sharing an experience of this nature with the fishermen allows you to discover aspects traditions and marine culture linked to fishing that have for the most part been forgotten.

Tours. Explore the marvels of the marine reserve using a mask and flippers.

Boating Excursions. hire an elegant motorboat or yacht, with or without a crew.