Corsica, this “Island of Beauty”, is not content to amaze with its surface landscapes, it also dazzles with its underwater world. In scuba diving, Corsica offers a variety of exceptional sites ranging from underwater caves to coral reefs, including historic wrecks. Here are some of the best diving spots on the island.
The Scandola Nature Reserve
In the northwest of Corsica, the Scandola Nature Reserve is a must for all divers. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to unique underwater biodiversity, with red corals, groupers, nudibranchs and even dolphins. The volcanic rock formations underwater create a breathtaking underwater landscape.
The ecosystem at Scandola
Scandola, a UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve, is located on the west coast of Corsica. It is home to exceptionally diverse underwater flora and fauna. Under the crystalline wave, the volcanic seabed is covered with a thick layer of algae and corals, providing an ideal habitat for a myriad of marine species.
You can observe a wide variety of fish, including groupers, barracudas, muskbeams, and many others. The reserve is also frequented by dolphins, monk seals, and even, occasionally, sea turtles. The waters of Scandola are also home to an impressive collection of red corals, highly prized for their beauty.
Beyond marine life, Scandola is also home to many birds, including rare species like the osprey. It is an important stopover for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa. The cliffs and islets of the reserve provide ideal nesting sites for these birds.
Scandola is a natural treasure and sanctuary for flora and fauna. Conservation efforts have kept this unique ecosystem healthy, providing an unforgettable sight for divers and nature lovers.
The Lavezzi Islands
Located in the south of Corsica, near Bonifacio, the Lavezzi Islands are another great destination for diving. The crystal clear waters surrounding these islands are home to a rich variety of marine life including barracuda, clownfish and many species of gorgonians.
Corals in the Lavezzi Islands
The Lavezzi Islands, located south of Corsica, are a paradise for coral lovers. Under the clear waters, divers can admire a variety of corals, including the famous red corals which take on their most beautiful color as soon as the light diminishes. The coral ecosystem here is rich and well-preserved, providing refuge for a host of sea creatures, from small crustaceans to colorful fish. Diving in the Lavezzi Islands is like entering an enchanted world, full of color and life.
Groupers in Bonifacio
Bonifacio, in the south of Corsica, is famous for its groupers. These majestic fish, easily recognized by their large protruding eyes and wide mouths, are a real attraction for divers. Their graceful movements and their natural curiosity for divers make them particularly endearing. During dives around Bonifacio, it is not uncommon to come across groupers of impressive size, adding a touch of excitement to the exploration of the rich seabed of Corsica.
La Revellata, near Calvi
La Revellata, located near Calvi, is another popular dive site in Corsica. It is famous for its World War II B-17 bomber wreckage, which lies 27 meters deep. The wreck is largely covered in corals and is home to a multitude of marine species.
The marine ecosystem at La Revellata
La Revellata, near Calvi, is a real nugget for divers. It is a place where the marine ecosystem is of astonishing richness. White and red sea fans, yellow sponges and many other benthic species cover the rocky bottoms, creating a picturesque seascape. This density of marine life offers a uniquely immersive experience for divers, where you can spot seahorses, sunfish and even black-spotted stingrays.
Diving clubs in Calvi
In the charming town of Calvi, diving clubs abound to welcome both beginners and experienced divers. Offering easy access to the Scandola Nature Reserve and other Corsica dive sites, these clubs are keen to share the region’s underwater wonders. Equipped with professional instructors, they provide high quality training, in line with international standards. Discover the seabed and endemic species of Corsica thanks to Calvi’s diving clubs, for an unforgettable experience.
The B52 bomber in Calvi
For history and diving enthusiasts, the site of the B52 bomber in Calvi is an essential stopover. This American bomber sank in an accident in 1962, and remains a spectacular underwater monument. At a depth of about 27 meters, divers can observe the remains of the B52, almost intact despite the years. It is a dive in time, in the heart of the history of the Cold War, which is offered to those who dare to venture on this site.
Cap Corse
Cap Corse also offers several interesting diving spots. Among them, the site of Macinaggio is particularly appreciated for its many caves and its abundance of marine life. Divers can encounter lobsters, moray eels, octopus and a variety of colorful fish here.
The different fish in Cap Corse
Cap Corse is a remarkable dive site for its variety of fish. This jewel of Corsica is full of various species of fish, from the smallest like gobies to the biggest predators. Schools of seabream, seabream, seabass, bright-eyed forks are commonly seen here. Without forgetting the rarer creatures like the dusky grouper, the conger or the intriguing scorpionfish which camouflages itself cleverly among the rocks.
Corsica is a destination of choice for diving enthusiasts, with a great diversity of sites for all levels of experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Corsica will offer you an unforgettable underwater adventure.
