With so many incredible snorkeling opportunities throughout the Mediterranean, the best way to discover them has to be by boat. That way, you can escape the crowded shores as you discover less-traveled anchorages, islands and harbors.
From Greece to Croatia, Italy to Spain; all you need to do is navigate to your chosen spot, before you dive into your newfound private underwater playground.
- Cabrera Archipelago National Park, Spain – Sail from Palma de Mallorca
Just six miles off the southern coast of Mallorca lies Cabrera Archipelago National Park. As it’s one of the best-preserved snorkeling spots on the island’s coast, the marine life is truly exceptional.
Discover various rock formations, small bays and cays as you snorkel along the coastline, which is free from the crowds found on busy beaches. However, be aware that if you want to visit, you’ll need to book in advance.
- Ustica, Sicily, Italy – Sail from Portorosa
The small island of Ustica in Sicily may take some extra travel time if you’re visiting by yacht, but the views of the coastline make it worth it.
The best snorkeling is within the Marine Protected Area, where marine life is abundant and the underwater visibility is spectacular. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up-close sightings of sea bream, grouper and some of the best marine fauna in the Mediterranean.
- Makarska Beach, Croatia – Sail from Split
Makarska Beach, Croatia, is one of the few places for snorkeling on our list that you can reach by land. The rocky coastline means you’ll get to enjoy clear waters with high visibility; the underwater fresh springs have resulted in a unique marine environment that is abundant with plants and coral – including Golden Sponge.
If you look between the rock formations, you might also get to see octopuses and seahorses.
- Foki Beach, Kefalonia, Greece – Sail from Lefkas
Many locals will proudly tell you that Foki Beach in Greece is one of the Mediterranean’s best snorkeling spots. The surrounded forested hills and cliffs certainly make for a beautiful landscape, while creating a natural, protected cove.
The sheltered area means the water is very calm and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the endangered Mediterranean Monk Seal!
- Maddalena Archipelago National Park, Sardinia, Italy – Sail From Sardinia
When in Sardinia, you simply have to sail over to Maddalena Archipelago National Park, especially if you’re a keen snorkeler. This low-lying collection of islands and islets are located just off the northern coast, and look almost otherworldly against the vivid azure water.
While the majority of islands in the archipelago are great for snorkeling, we’d recommend the coves of the “Lower Trinity” – Punta Tegge, Spalmatore and Cala Francese, with the watercolors unrivaled.
- Sa Dragonera, Mallorca, Spain – Sail from Palma de Mallorca
Located off the west coast of Mallorca near Port d‘Andratx, Sa Dragonera nature park is easily reached by boat. This underwater paradise is teaming with bream, barracuda and monkfish, just waiting to be explored.
Most of the action is by the surface, making it a particularly great snorkeling spot for the family. If you have time, make sure you explore the land to see the different types of lizards that were the inspiration for the island’s name.
- Agiofili Beach, Vassiliki, Greece – Sail from Lefkas
Agiofili Beach boasts soft white sands and despite being quite popular in season, the steep white stone cliffs that dominate it from either side make it feel very secluded.
To dive into this crystal clear water, you’ll need to bring your own snorkeling equipment. If you head out to the rocky outcroppings just off-shore, you’ll get to discover delightful fish and other marine creatures.
- Sveta Marija, Mljet, Croatia – Sail from Dubrovnik
Located in Mljet National Park is the tiny island of Sveta Marija, just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik. As the area is protected, the waters are pristine and are home to an array of natural life including fish and other sea creatures.
Above the water, the views couldn’t be any more beautiful, with a towering 12th-century Benedictine monastery tucked in amongst the landscape.
- Afionas, Corfu, Greece – Sail from Corfu
The narrow land bridge in Afionas has two beaches on either side: one facing the sea and the other facing the bay. The side that faces the sea has by far the best snorkeling opportunities.
You can either arrive by boat, or walk down the beach to the secluded cove, where an underwater adventure full of colorful coral, interesting rock formations and a variety of marine life awaits.
- Pakleni Islands, Croatia – Sail from Trogir
Many travelers who vacation in Croatia include a trip to Hvar Island on their itinerary. Once you’ve experienced an evening of world-class restaurants and nightlife on Hvar, be sure to cruise over to the peaceful Pakleni Islands, just 20 minutes away.
With uncrowded beaches and incredible visibility, it’s one of the best spots to snorkel in the whole of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re an experienced scuba diver, you can also explore the nearby underwater cave at Ujedinjeno Gasko.
If you’re ready to set sail on your Mediterranean vacation, get in touch with us to find out more about our yacht charters.
