Italy's long, varied coastline and clear Mediterranean water make it a beautiful snorkelling destination. From the dramatic cliffs and grottoes of the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts to the transparent waters of the Egadi Islands off Sicily, the La Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia and the calas of Salento in Puglia, Italy offers warm, clear seas full of life. Much of the best snorkelling is reached by boat, with local operators running trips to sea caves, grottoes and quiet coves.
Where to snorkel
The Amalfi and Sorrento coasts combine grottoes and clear water beneath spectacular cliffs; the Egadi Islands (Favignana, Levanzo) off western Sicily are renowned for their transparent sea; La Maddalena in Sardinia is a protected archipelago of turquoise coves; and Salento in Puglia offers warm, clear Adriatic and Ionian water. Boat trips are the natural way to reach the best spots.
Boat trips and guided sessions
Italian operators combine coastal cruising with swim-and-snorkel stops, providing equipment and choosing sheltered spots according to conditions — ideal for beginners, families and confident swimmers alike.
Adventuro centres in Italy
- Excursion Boat Sorrento — Personalised boat experiences along the Sorrento Coast, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, designed for a relaxed, well-organised day on the water with swimming and snorkelling stops.
- Mare e Vento Favignana — Boat tours of the Egadi Islands (Favignana and Levanzo) shaped by deep local knowledge, balancing relaxed cruising with discovery in some of Italy's clearest water.
- Sea Tour Gallipoli — Founded in 2019 by three local friends to help people experience the Salento coastline of Puglia from the water, with snorkelling stops in clear coves.
- SeaVibes — Small-group and private catamaran experiences across the La Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia, with limited numbers on board for a personal trip.
- La Maddalena Diving — Over 40 years of passion and experience exploring the underwater world around La Maddalena Island, for beginners and experienced divers and snorkellers alike.
