Punta Secca

This dive site, situated on the border with the Protected Area of Giannutri, is an absolute must-visit for divers. It caters to divers of all levels, including those who are completing their Open Water Diver courses. Due to its proximity to the protected area, divers can expect to encounter unique and fascinating marine life during their dives, including vibrant coral fish and pelagic species.

To begin the dive, divers will head out to sea from the mooring point, located at a depth of approximately 14 meters near the tip of the site. Following the rocky slope, they will then encounter a wall that abruptly starts at a depth of around 20 to 25 meters. This cliff, which stretches in a northwest to southeast direction, boasts an impressive display of coralligenous formations. At a depth of -30 meters and below, divers will discover a basal layer composed of encrusting red algae that is teeming with organisms typical of such formations, such as porifera and bryozoans. Additionally, the wall is adorned with magnificent red and yellow gorgonians, which serve as a habitat for a variety of epibiont organisms, including bryozoans, serpulids, and the coveted gorgon star (Astrospartus mediterraneus).

Throughout the dive, divers will also have the opportunity to encounter spiny lobsters, crayfish (Homarus gammarus), and other marine species inhabiting the crevices and cavities of the wall. As the dive progresses, divers should keep the wall on their right side until they reach their maximum bottom time, at which point they will begin ascending along the slope.

During the summer months, divers may encounter numerous sea hares on the rocky bottom surrounding the mooring point or along the wall, which quickly reaches a depth of 10 meters from the surface. Additionally, as this site is situated on the border of the integral protection area of the Giannutri protected sea area, divers can expect to come across rare species, such as the San Pietro fish (Zeus faber), as well as scorpion fish, forkbeards (Phycis phycis), groupers, and impressive schools of fish at various depths. Depending on the season, divers may even spot snappers, barracudas, and amberjacks on the hunt.

With a visibility of 29 meters and a maximum depth of 29 meters, this dive site offers an unforgettable underwater experience. Whether you are a beginner, advanced diver, or expert, this dive site in Italy is a must-explore destination for divers seeking to discover the wonders of the sea. Located in Località San Francesco, Giannutri, Isola del Giglio, Grosseto, Tuscany, Italy, this dive site is easily accessible and promises an incredible adventure beneath the waves. (source: L’Arcipelago Nascosto - Underwater itineraries in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park ed.2022)