Ustica Diving Fest

A festival dedicated to the sea of Ustica

The Ustica Diving Fest is an event for diving enthusiasts held on the island of Ustica, located in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, Sicily. Organized by the Ustica Diving Center—the only diving center managed by local Ustica residents—the festival offers five intense days of underwater exploration, excursions, and social gatherings, highlighting one of the most fascinating stretches of the Mediterranean.

Italy's first Marine Protected Area

Ustica, a small volcanic island northwest of the Palermo coast, is home to the first Marine Protected Area established in Italy. Created in 1986, it is now a symbol of marine conservation in the country. Its seabed, rich in caves, shoals, walls, and extraordinary biodiversity, has been a premier destination for recreational and scientific diving for decades. The festival was created to showcase this natural heritage through guided dives in the reserve's most iconic sites.

The program

The event spans five days and typically alternates two daily dives with island exploration. Activities include guided dives at major underwater points of interest, visits to the Volcanological Museum, boat tours around the island, and dinners at traditional local restaurants.

• Guided dives in the most spectacular sites of the Marine Protected Area
• Nature excursions and island tours
• Aperitifs and dinners in traditional Ustica venues
• Overnight stays in local accommodations

Who is it for?

The initiative is aimed at both certified divers, who can take part in the full diving package, and non-divers or companions, for whom a program of excursions and surface activities is provided. All dives are conducted under the guidance and assistance of the diving center staff, ensuring safety and a high-quality experience.

Sea, nature, and tradition

Beyond the sporting aspect, the Ustica Diving Fest is an opportunity to fully experience the island's identity: its cuisine, landscapes, and maritime culture. The combination of scuba diving, local gastronomy, and a friendly atmosphere makes the festival a highly appreciated event for sea lovers across Sicily and beyond.