The Underwater Treasures Of Gallura 0 Comments

The maritime history of the sea in front of the Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites is marked by numerous wartime and commercial events that have left their traces on the seabed. Exploring the submerged wrecks is like journeying through time, encountering sunken merchant ships, war vessels, and ancient sailing ships.

One of the most famous wrecks is the KT12, a German transport ship from World War II that sank in 1943 near Tavolara Island. Today, the wreck lies at a depth of about 30 meters and is a true paradise for experienced divers, thanks to its well-preserved structures and the rich marine life that inhabits it.

Another must-see site is the wreck of the Angelika, located off the coast of Capo Figari. This merchant ship, which sank in the 1970s, is now one of the most beloved underwater attractions for photographers due to the spectacular scenery created by the seabed and the colonies of coral covering it.

Gallura's waters hold not only modern wrecks but also precious archaeological artefacts. Near the coast of Olbia, you can admire artifacts, amphorae and cargoes from Roman ships, from ancient shipwrecks dating back to Roman times. Many of these items have been recovered and are now housed in the Archaeological Museum of Olbia, but some amphorae and parts of wrecks remain visible during guided dives.

It’s not just the wrecks that make diving in the waters of Golfo Aranci special. The seabed of this region is a mosaic of life, where every rock and every cavern hide a surprise. The Posidonia, an endemic Mediterranean seagrass, covers vast stretches of the seabed, contributing to the clarity of the water and offering shelter to fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. It’s easy to spot schools of barracudas, groupers, moray eels, and even dolphins in the deeper areas. 

Additionally, The Maddalena Archipelago, a protected natural reserve, is a true sanctuary of biodiversity. Diving here offers close encounters with rare species such as Caretta caretta turtles and, with a bit of luck, The Legendary Monk Seal In Sardinia, one of the rarest mammals in the Mediterranean.

The sea of Gallura offers underwater experiences suitable for everyone, from beginners to the most experienced divers. For those dreaming of diving into this paradise, here are some recommendations:

1. Choose a certified diving centre: The area is rich in diving centres offering courses, equipment rental, and expert guides to explore the seabed safely. Our reception will be delighted to arrange excursions with the best local diving centres.

2. Respect the environment: Marine biodiversity is fragile, so it’s essential to avoid touching corals or disturbing their inhabitants.

After an exciting day at sea, there’s nothing better than relaxing back at the Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites. With a spectacular view of Golfo Aranci, our hotel offers all the comfort you need to recharge, from elegant rooms to traditional cuisine, perfect for ending the day with a delicious dish expertly prepared by our Chef, paired with excellent Sardinian Wines.

"In my depths, underwater, in solitude, I feel a liquid brotherhood with a universe whose boundaries have disappeared. There is no limit to space down there."  (Fabrizio Caramagna)

Written by Daniela Toti