Snorkeling in Paraggi Bay: Posidonia meadow and marine life

Swim through a natural aquarium where the seabed is thick with Posidonia and fish

Snorkel Paraggi Bay, a protected marine reserve near Portofino, with mask, fins, wetsuit and snorkel provided by an environmental guide who briefs you on safety and the species you'll encounter. The bay is closed to boat traffic, making it safe for swimmers. Minimum group size is two participants. Children are welcome from age 10. The activity lasts about an hour and requires the ability to swim.

The experience

The waters of Paraggi Bay stay clear because the park restricts nautical traffic and the seabed is dense with Posidonia meadow: the marine plant that anchors the whole ecosystem here. Your guide explains the safety procedures and walks you through images of the fish and plants you're likely to see before you enter the water. You'll have a mask, snorkel, fins and a wetsuit. The guide stays with the group in the shallows where the variety is thickest.

The bay sits near Portofino and is accessible by public transportation. Bring sunscreen, a bathing suit and a towel. The nautical base has lockers for your belongings (though the staff doesn't take responsibility for valuables). There's a bar and restaurant in the nearby area if you want to eat after, and you can refill a water bottle at the office before you go in. The activity runs about an hour and suits all fitness levels as long as you can swim. Children from age 10 are welcome. Weather can cancel the outing, but you'll get an alternative date or a full refund if that happens.

What’s included

• Environmental guide in English or Italian.
• snorkel, mask, fins and wetsuit rental.
• safety briefing and species identification before entering the water.
• use of lockers at the nautical base.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (15 to 80 years) · Child (10 to 14 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish and Italian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearby

Operated by Outdoor Portofino

Is this one for you?Small groups keep the experience intimate and the guide's attention focused. If you're snorkeling solo or as a pair, you'll meet other swimmers at the minimum group size of two, so book only if you're comfortable in a small shared group.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 14 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What will I actually see snorkeling in Paraggi Bay?

Paraggi Bay is famous for its Posidonia meadow, a seagrass that supports a rich variety of fish species and marine plants. The guide shows you images of what to expect before you enter the water, and the protected bay keeps the seabed thick with life because boats aren't allowed there.

Do I need any snorkeling experience or training to do this?

No skills are required beyond being able to swim. The guide explains safety procedures before you enter the water and stays with the group throughout the activity.

What equipment do I get, and what do I need to bring?

The operator provides a snorkel, mask, fins and wetsuit. You'll need to bring sunscreen, a bathing suit and a towel. The nautical base has lockers for your things while you're in the water.

How long does the snorkeling last?

The activity runs about an hour in the water. The guide briefs you on safety and marine life before you enter, so plan for a bit longer at the base.