This dive site, Punta Chiappa, is a rocky promontory extending into the Ligurian Sea, offering exceptional underwater scenery on both its sides. Navigation is straightforward, following the rocky contours down to the 25-meter depth. The site's history is intertwined with the local fishing traditions of the Cinque Terre region. The diverse underwater landscape offers ample opportunities for exploration, ranging from shallow rocky areas to deeper detritus plains.
The site teems with life, including striped sea breams, red mullets, various algae and sponges (both encrusting and massive), showy polychaetes, and a notable population of starfish and other echinoderms. The abundance of small invertebrates provides ample opportunity for macro photography, while the overall structure of the site is suitable for wider angle shots.
The best time to visit is during the summer months (June-September) when visibility is typically at its best and the water temperature is more comfortable. For divers, proper buoyancy control is crucial given the uneven seabed. For freedivers, the site offers opportunities for deeper dives, but awareness of potential currents and careful planning are important for safety. Always check weather conditions and current forecasts before diving.
