Freediving in San Fruttuoso: An Unforgettable Trip to Cristo degli Abissi

If you’re visiting the Ligurian coast, don’t miss San Fruttuoso. This hidden gem, accessible only by boat, offers not just picturesque landscapes but also one of the most fascinating freediving sites: the underwater statue of Cristo degli Abissi. Plan a day trip – it’s an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Getting to San Fruttuoso

San Fruttuoso can be reached by boat from several coastal towns. The shortest route departs from Camogli, while slightly longer trips start from Rapallo or Santa Margherita Ligure. If you’re traveling by train, you can combine different routes for the journey there and back, exploring multiple locations. Keep in mind that San Fruttuoso is a very small settlement: there’s an old church, a few houses, a café (open year-round), and a restaurant that’s closed in winter. Bring water and a snack – local amenities are limited.

Preparing for Your Dive

You can change under the arches on the beach. Open-cell wetsuits are best put on directly in the water, which is manageable even with winter temperatures of around 16°C (as of December 2024). A surface buoy is essential, as boats enter and exit the bay. Always stay on the left side along the rocks to ensure your safety and find the correct route.

The Path to the Statue

After a 300-meter swim along the rocks, you’ll reach a marked area with red buoys. With good visibility, you can spot the statue from the surface. The Cristo degli Abissi stands on a concrete base at about 13 meters depth, making it accessible even for divers with a maximum depth of 10 meters. The statue itself, standing 2.5 meters tall, is a magical sight that rewards your efforts.

Tips for the Perfect Trip

Pay close attention to the boat schedule: in winter, there are only two afternoon departures for the return trip. If you miss the last boat, you’ll have to spend the night on the beach – something you’ll want to avoid in cooler temperatures. Plan your day well and enjoy this unique freediving experience in one of Liguria’s most beautiful bays!