9 Top Dive Sites in the Mediterranean

With lots to see below and above the water line when on board a luxury charter yacht in the Med, there’s plenty to explore if you love scuba diving too.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re new to diving or an experienced diver, enjoy the fascinating underwater life. Here are some exciting options to add to your Mediterranean yacht charter itinerary.

1. Bodrum in Turkey

Bodrum stretches from the southwest coast of Turkey right into the azure blue Aegean Sea. The twin bays close to the city have panoramic views of Bodrum Castle which is said to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Enjoy the many towns, resorts and beaches which are nearby.

Bodrum is one of the most popular places in Turkey, especially for divers. There’s even a unique underwater museum which is an absolute must-visit. With its hot Mediterranean climate, the waters of Bodrum beckon divers of all abilities. Sail there and see for yourself.

2. Roman Shipwrecks, Italy

When putting your yacht charter itinerary together, don’t leave out the Roman Shipwrecks in Italy. These preserved ruins will give you the opportunity to study these ancient Roman shipwrecks which are sure to be forever etched in your memory.

Wrecks over 2000 years old have been discovered in waters 150ft deep with their cargoes of terracotta tiles perfectly in fact.

3. Pavlopetri, Greece

The ancient submerged city of Pavlopetri is around 5000 years old and when it was discovered had roads, buildings and tombs. It makes for a fantastic day of diving for everyone on a yacht charter vacation.

For those who enjoy learning about the history of a place, Pavlopetri in Greece is extremely interesting. Take a look at how civilisation was 48 centuries ago in this settlement from the Bronze Age which can be found off the southern coast of Peloponnese. It offers an amazing diving experience too, highly recommended by professional and experienced divers.

4. Corsica, France

Diving here in the blue azure waters of the Med you’re sure to see many rocky ridges, canyons and sea mounts. The best time to visit Corsica is from May-October.

Corsica or “the Isle of Beauty” as it’s known locally, is definitely a Mediterranean hot spot. It also provides a wonderful diving opportunity and underwater exploration experience. Corsica is a well-protected island with clear waters offering divers the chance to see a huge diversity of exotic marine life. Why not put “the Isle of Beauty” on your bucket list of dive sites?

5. Antibes, France

This amazing resort, located between Nice and Cannes on the French Riviera, is well-known for the 16th century ramparts that surround it. Overlooking the Port Vauban marina, Antibes has many magnificent villas and is a great place to moor your superyacht.

Antibes is one of those diving places that appeals to everyone. It hosts a Videography Festival as well as the World Underwater Photography Festival. What could be better than that? Along with its many diving locations, Antibes also has a good selection of gourmet restaurants and vibrant bars. There’s no better way to relax once your diving day is over.

6. Medes Islands, Spain

These beautiful islands have many islets which are off the coast of L’Estartit. You’ll find great scuba diving sites in this fabulous Mediterranean location. Take a swim through a cave which is guarded by a dolphin statue to the marine nature reserve.
With colourful coral reefs, the Medes Islands provides all year-round diving trips. The waters around these islands in Spain have fields of gorgonians, amazing rock formations, purple reefs and yellow sea fans, all offering a kaleidoscope of colour. Diving in this region gives visitors a truly unique experience.

7. Baron Gautsch, Croatia

This particular passenger shipwreck is over 80m long and is home to various, unique marine life along with coral sponges.

The wreck of the SS Baron Gautsch can be accessed by boat only. The ship sank in 1914 after sailing into a minefield which was laid down by the Austro-Hungarian Navy. It’s a thrilling place to dive when on a luxury charter yacht in the Mediterranean Sea.

8. Baiae, Italy

Photograph spectacular villas off the coast from your superyacht and enjoy the mild climate. Ruins of the Roman thermal pools can still be seen with their interesting gardens, terraces and promenades visible to this day. Find out more about the saunas, sitting rooms, reading rooms, massage rooms and exercise rooms, it’s all very interesting.

Historical Baiae in Italy is perfect for divers. Check out the relics from an ancient villa, see interesting ruins, statues and ancient mosaics. The diving site has everything you could wish for and more, so spend plenty of time here. If you prefer, take a trip in a glass-bottomed boat on a tour of this unforgettable location.

9. Santorini, Greece

This delightful Greek island in the Aegean Sea has pretty whitewashed homes in the two main towns of Oia and Fira. Built on the cliffs, the buildings overlook small islands in the west, the sea and the red, white and black pebbly beaches.

Beautiful, beautiful Santorini. Get your adrenalin flowing by diving close to an active volcano, wow! There’s lots of brightly coloured coral too. If you prefer to snorkel rather than scuba dive, head for the abandoned tourist boat. It’s 34m in length, well lit and not too far from Santorini’s gorgeous harbour, a fantastic place to snorkel.