Italy's best snorkeling is in the marine reserves — where fishing is restricted and the fish don't run from humans. Ustica (the first marine reserve in Italy, 1986), the Tremiti, the Gulf of Orosei, and the marine areas of the Egadi Islands.
Italy's first marine reserve (1986). Visibility 40m+. Groupers, barracuda, sea fans. The BEST snorkeling in Italy. Punta Gavazzi is the top spot. Ferry from Palermo (1.5h).
The marble pebble floor is visible from 15m above on the boat. Groupers, octopus, Posidonia meadows.
Marine reserve. Boat tour with snorkeling stops. The Blue Grotto of San Domino. Sea sponges, moray eels.
Marine reserve south of Crotone. Roman amphorae on the seabed. Visibility 20m+. Glass-bottom boat tours available.
Marine reserve between Sorrento and Capri. Snorkel where the Mediterranean drops to 60m. Boat from Sorrento.
Marine reserve. Shallow Posidonia meadows — seahorses (!). Glass-bottom boat for non-snorkelers.