Il Careno diving center

Il Careno Diving Center is situated in the seaside locality of Sant’Andrea on the island of Elbe. As the closest diving hub to the Capraia marine area, it serves as an ideal base for those looking to explore the deeper, more rugged underwater landscapes of the Tuscan Archipelago.

The centre operates with a focus on sea-based training, utilising the natural advantages of the local geography. Rather than relying solely on pools, many training sessions are conducted directly in the bay of Sant’Andrea, where shallow sandy areas and clear conditions provide an excellent environment for learning.

The centre is a PADI affiliated facility, providing a structured pathway for divers of all experience levels. Their educational programmes are designed to meet international standards, ensuring a consistent approach to safety and skill acquisition.

Instruction is available in English, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for international divers visiting the island. The team manages a range of programmes from the initial Discover Scuba Diving sessions for children (from age 8) through to professional-level Divemaster training.

Environmental stewardship is a core part of their operations, with an active commitment to the protection of the local marine environment.

The training programme follows the PADI curriculum, covering a comprehensive range of certifications. Beginners can start with introductory dive experiences, which progress through the Open Water Diver course.

For more experienced divers, the centre provides advanced training and professional development, including the Divemaster course. They also offer bespoke dive outings tailored to the specific needs and interests of individual divers or groups.

The centre offers a variety of equipment for hire, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and regulators. This allows divers arriving with minimal kit to fully participate in the local dive programmes.

For those looking for more convenience, the centre can assist with ferry bookings to the island of Elbe to facilitate your arrival.

The area is known for sightings of whales, which can be a highlight for those diving in the deeper waters of the archipelago.

The marine landscape is defined by its diverse habitats, ranging from the shallow reef flats to the deeper banks. These environments support a variety of Mediterranean species that thrive in the protected marine park zones.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants are present throughout the reefs, though specific seasonal sightings depend on the time of year. The local ecosystem is a vital part of the protected marine area surrounding Capraia.

The best period for snorkeling in the area is between June and September. While the centre offers weekly outings and bespoke dives, divers should be aware that conditions in the archipelago can vary depending on the swell and local currents near the islands of Capraia and Pianosa.