Underwater Archaeological Tour: Acicastello (CT)

Explore Sicily’s Underwater Heritage with a 3-Hour Scuba Tour in Acicastello

The Underwater Archaeological Tour in Acicastello (CT) offers a unique opportunity to experience Sicily’s submerged past and vibrant marine environment for $59 per person. This 3-hour dive is organized by ESA “Elephant Scuba Academy”, a trusted name in diving education and excursions in Catania.

Starting at the Lido La Risacca beach resort, this tour provides access to two contrasting dive sites just off the coast. Whether you’re interested in exploring Greek-Roman amphorae or marveling at volcanic lava formations, this experience caters to lovers of history, nature, and underwater discovery. Its small group size, limited to 5 participants, ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.

While the tour includes essential gear and guide services, participants must bring their own diving certification, wetsuit, and snorkeling gear. This makes it ideal for certified divers seeking a meaningful underwater adventure in Sicily’s waters, though it is not suited for children under 15 years.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $59 per person, for a 3-hour guided underwater experience
• Location: Starts at Lido La Risacca beach in Acicastello, Sicily
• Highlights: Underwater archaeological trail, volcanic lava wall, and abundant marine flora and fauna
• Includes: Entry to the beach, tour guide, tank, and weight belt
• Excludes: Items not explicitly listed in the package, such as personal gear or rentals
• Group Size: Limited to 5 participants for a personalized experience
• Languages: Guides speak English and Italian
• Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Ideal for: Certified divers aged 15 and above

Meeting Point at La Risacca Beach Resort

All activities depart from the La Risacca beach resort, where guides meet participants before heading to the two dive sites. The location provides easy access to the two main points of interest: an archaeological site with ancient amphorae and the meeting of lava flows with the sandy seabed.

The meeting logistics are straightforward, and the tour includes the necessary equipment, enabling guests to focus on the experience. The address of the shop offering rental gear is provided in advance to ensure smooth preparation.

Discovering the Underwater Archaeological Site in Acicastello

On the right side of the beach, visitors find an archaeological site featuring amphorae from the Greek-Roman period at depths ranging from 15 to 30 meters. This site offers a glimpse into ancient maritime history, with the amphorae providing tangible evidence of Sicily’s long-standing trade and cultural exchanges.

Guides lead guests through this underwater relic zone, explaining the historical significance of the artifacts. The site’s visibility and the proximity of the wreckage make it an engaging exploration for those interested in underwater archaeology.

Exploring the Lava Contact Zone Off Mount Etna

To the left of the beach, the tour explores where Mount Etna’s lava flows have met the sandy seabed at approximately 25 meters depth. This area showcases Sicily’s volcanic activity through impressive lava formations and geological features.

Marine life thrives around these lava structures, with moray eels, octopuses, stingrays, and a variety of fish species inhabiting the waters. The guides emphasize the natural beauty and geological importance of this site, making it a highlight for both nature lovers and geology enthusiasts.

More Great Tours Nearby

Marine Life and Biodiversity Encounters

The seabed in front of the beach teems with marine flora and fauna. Guests often observe moray eels, octopuses, and stingrays gliding through the waters, alongside many species of fish. The diverse underwater ecosystem offers plenty of opportunities for observation and photography, adding a lively natural dimension to the archaeological and volcanic sites.

The guides are well-versed in identifying marine species, enriching the experience with interesting facts about the local marine biodiversity.

Practical Details: Gear, Certification, and Safety

Participants need to bring their diving certification, as the tour involves scuba diving at significant depths. The tank and weight belt are provided, along with entry to the beach and a tour guide.

The tour does not include gear rentals outside the provided equipment, but the address of nearby shops authorized by the diving center is shared beforehand. Importantly, alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the activity for safety reasons.

Small Group Experience and Language Support

Limited to 5 participants, the tour ensures a more personalized and relaxed experience. Guides speak English and Italian, and some content may be shown in its original language, making it accessible for a variety of guests.

The small group setting helps ensure safety, attention from guides, and a more intimate exploration of Sicily’s underwater sites.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind for planning. Check available starting times when booking, as the schedule may vary.

This flexibility makes it easier to fit the experience into different travel itineraries, especially for those with flexible plans.

Suitability and Considerations for Participants

This tour is not suitable for children under 15 years due to the physical demands of scuba diving and depth requirements. Participants should be comfortable with scuba gear and at least have certification.

It is an ideal choice for certified divers who want to combine archaeological exploration with the natural beauty of Sicily’s marine environment. The activity demands some physical fitness, but the guides emphasize safety and professional supervision throughout.

Why Choose This Underwater Archaeological Tour in Acicastello?

This guided scuba experience stands out by combining history and nature in a compact, 3-hour package. The archaeological site with Greek-Roman amphorae offers a rare glimpse into ancient maritime activity, while the lava formations highlight Sicily’s volcanic landscape.

The small group size and experienced guides enhance the quality of the visit, making it suitable for certified divers eager for a meaningful underwater adventure. The price of $59 reflects good value for access to these remarkable sites, with all essential gear included.

While it’s not tailored for beginners or children, this tour appeals to those with diving experience looking for an educational yet natural experience in Sicily’s waters. Its accessibility, combined with the compelling mix of history and geology, makes it a memorable choice for underwater enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a diving certification to join this tour?
Yes, diving certification is required as the activity involves scuba diving at depths of 15 to 30 meters and around 25 meters.

What is included in the tour price?
The entry to the beach, tour guide, tank, and weight belt are included in the $59 fee.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is 3 hours, with specific start times available upon booking.

Can beginners participate?
No, this tour is designed for certified divers aged 15 and above. It is not suitable for beginners or children.

Where does the tour meet?
Guides meet at the La Risacca beach resort, where the activity starts.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Participants must bring their own snorkeling gear; gear rental options are available at authorized shops nearby.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The tour features an underwater archaeological trail with Greek-Roman amphorae, the meeting of lava flows with the seabed, and abundant marine life.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Italian.

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
No, only certified divers can participate due to the depth and technical nature of the activity.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby