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Dive centre · Cala Gonone · Italy
5.026 Google reviewsSpecialist technical and cave training in the unique underwater topography of Cala Gonone, Sardinia.
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Located in the coastal village of Cala Gonone, Protec Sardinia ASD serves as a dedicated hub for divers looking to push beyond standard recreational boundaries. The centre is positioned perfectly to access some of Sardinia's most significant underwater features, ranging from deep wrecks to intricate cave networks.
While they welcome divers at all levels, the centre has built a reputation for high-level technical instruction. Whether you are looking to master sidemount techniques or move into the world of closed-circuit rebreathers, the focus here is on precision, safety, and deep exploration.
The instructional team is composed of highly experienced professionals, including Thorsten „Toddy“ Wälde, Claudia Decandia, Bruno Spagnuolo, Brian Starnes, and Melissa Bezaz. Their approach to training is described as rigorous and honest, ensuring that every diver gains a thorough, practical understanding of their skills.
Safety is managed through a strict diver-to-guide ratio, with a maximum of three divers per guide. The centre operates with a professional, family-oriented atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for those undertaking demanding technical certifications.
The course catalogue is extensive, covering the entire spectrum from fundamental training to advanced technical specialisations. Beginners can start with Open Water or Essentials Training, eventually progressing through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster levels.
For technical divers, the centre offers a comprehensive suite of certifications. This includes Sidemount (Open Water, Technical, and Cave), Wreck diving (Basic, Advanced, and Technical), and advanced gas management such as Advanced Nitrox and Hypoxic or Normoxic Trimix. They are also a specialist centre for rebreather training, offering CCR Mod 1 and CCR Maintenance courses, alongside dedicated Cave Diver programmes ranging from Intro to Cave Diver through to Multiple Stage Cave Diver and DPV Cave Diver.
The centre is fully equipped for technical diving, providing access to Nitrox and Trimix. This support is essential for the deep wreck and cave dives that define the local area.
For those travelling without their own kit, the centre offers equipment hire to facilitate your training or exploration. They also provide accommodation on-site, allowing for a streamlined experience between training sessions and rest.
The Ugo Bassi is a significant wreck for those looking to test their depth capabilities, reaching down to 90 metres. It offers a substantial target for advanced divers and technical teams.
The Nasello and KT12 wrecks are shallower options, with depths reaching up to 34 metres, making them accessible for a wider range of divers looking to explore submerged structures.
For cave and cavern enthusiasts, the area is home to numerous sites including Utopia, Del Fico, and Cala Luna. These locations provide the complex swim-throughs and overhead environments required for cave training and exploration.
And some of the dive sites the centre runs.
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