Diving: The treasures of the seabed of L'Ametlla de Mar
Would you like to try diving but have never done it before? Are you a lover of underwater life and enjoy discovering new places? Then you can't miss this adventure in the seabed of L'Ametlla de Mar.
L'Ametlla de Mar is one of the coastal towns of the Terres de l'Ebre that still retains the spirit of a fishing village. The Cala, as its residents call it, has an undeniable bond with the sea. It owes everything to the sea: its origins, becoming one of the main ports in Catalonia, the beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters, and many other things. Among them, a seabed rich in fauna and flora. In fact, L'Ametlla de Mar is located within the Biosphere Reserve of the Terres de l'Ebre, a guarantee of natural conservation.
Diving or snorkeling are not new activities. For many years, divers have admired a unique seabed along the Catalan coast. One of the features that makes diving in L'Ametlla de Mar special is the “Posidonia”. In fact, the coastal area of L'Ametlla de Mar is home to a “Posidonia” forest of high environmental value, sheltering more than a thousand species. Posidonia is an indicator of high water quality, but it is also a valuable ecosystem that feeds and protects countless fish. This marine treasure stretches between Estany Tort Beach and Sant Jordi Beach, covering 1.5 kilometers. Additionally, posidonia can also be found off the coast of Calafat Harbor and between the Port de l'Estany and Punta de l'Àliga. This marine forest contributes to L'Ametlla de Mar's reputation for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. Moreover, the rocky depths are an ideal haven for species such as crabs, octopuses, and moray eels.
By practicing snorkelling, you can admire part of this biodiversity, but it is with diving that you truly reach the depths of this small Mediterranean treasure. Both snorkelling and diving are water sports that can be practiced alone, in pairs, in groups, or with family. Moreover, along the Calero coastline, you can enjoy the sea at temperatures ranging from 19 to 24 degrees Celsius for nearly eight months, from May to December. Additionally, L'Ametlla offers quality guarantees certified for the practice of these sports. Since 2015, it has held the specialization seal in sailing and diving awarded by the Catalan Tourism Agency.
For expert divers.
Another of the well-kept secrets of the seabed of L'Ametlla de Mar is the sunken ships. In this adventure, reserved for the most experienced divers, you can find fishing vessels that have turned into marine biodiversity reefs and historic sunken ships. One such treasure of the seabed of L'Ametlla de Mar is the Cavour.
At the depths off the coast of Calafat lies one of the emblematic ships: the Cavour. This Italian vessel, over 100 meters long, has been resting at a depth of 52 meters since 1917. The remains of the Cavour, popularly known as El Correu, still retain their majestic shape. In fact, you can still see a cannon at the stern. However, the passage of time has turned this historic ship into an underwater world where a great variety of species can be admired. The Cavour is not the only sunken ship, but it is one of the few that can be accessed. In fact, at the bottom of the Gulf of Sant Jordi, the remains of well-known ships in the area, such as the French Medjerdà, lie in rest. There are also lesser-known ships like the British Chulmleigh or the Lefkosia.
L’Ametlla de Mar Experience.
The companies offering the opportunity to embark on this journey through the Calero seabed are part of L'Ametlla de Mar Experience, a local brand that brings together a variety of companies specializing in water sports. Thus, in addition to diving and snorkelling, you can practice kayaking, sailing, boat rentals, paddle surfing, enjoy a unique experience like swimming with giant tunas (Tuna-Tour), and much more. These activities are also supported, in parallel, by the Costa Daurada Nautical Station.
So, don’t hesitate any longer! If you're a nature lover, diving enthusiast, and enjoy water sports, head to L'Ametlla de Mar! We’re waiting for you!