Relitto dell'Arenella

About this dive site

This dive site, known as Relitto dell'Arenella or Bettolina dell’Arenella, is a small, easily navigable wreck situated on a sandy seabed a few hundred meters off the coast. The wreck itself is an artificial reef, lying at a depth between 10 and 18 meters, making it accessible to divers of all experience levels, particularly beginners. Its relatively shallow depth and lack of strong currents make it ideal for training dives or for divers wanting a relaxed dive experience. The wreck is not particularly historically significant; its primary appeal lies in the thriving marine life it supports.

The abundant marine life attracted to the wreck includes sponges, nudibranchs, pyrographs, scorpionfish, bream, moray eels, octopus, and conger eels. The variety and density of smaller creatures, especially the nudibranchs, make this an excellent spot for macro photography. While larger fish such as bream are present, the site is not known for attracting large pelagic species.

The best time to visit is likely during the warmer months (spring and summer), when visibility tends to be best and the water temperature is most comfortable. Divers should be mindful of the sandy seabed, maintaining buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the sediment and reducing visibility. This dive is suitable for both scuba divers and freediving, but always remember to check weather and current conditions before entering the water.