Lustrica diving center

Ustica is a volcanic island in the Mediterranean that offers some of the most diverse marine environments in the region. Because it is a protected marine area, the underwater landscape is remarkably intact, ranging from deep pinacles and vertical walls to complex cave systems and submerged archaeological sites.

Lustrica Diving is positioned directly on the Banchina Barresi of the port, making it easy to reach on foot from the town centre. This central location allows for efficient transitions from the shore to the dive boats, ensuring you spend more time in the water and less time in transit.

The centre operates with a team of qualified instructors dedicated to the local environment. They provide a wide range of PADI training, catering to everyone from those taking their first breaths underwater to professional candidates working towards their Divemaster certification.

The staff is experienced in guiding divers through various environments, including night dives and specialised explorations. With a focus on the island's unique biodiversity, the instruction is designed to help you understand the delicate ecosystem of this protected zone.

The centre provides a complete PADI curriculum, starting with Discover Scuba Diving and progressing through Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, and Rescue Diver.

For those looking to specialise, a wide array of PADI Specialty courses are available, including Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox), Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Cavern Diver, and Underwater Navigator. Professional training is also provided for those pursuing the Divemaster path.

For those travelling light, the centre offers full equipment hire, including wetsuits, fins, masks, and snorkels. Individual items such as torches for night dives or dive computers can also be rented on a daily basis.

Lustrica Diving is a partner with Dive System, which is particularly useful for divers requiring custom-made drysuits. Nitrox is available for those looking to extend their bottom times during decompression-limited dives.

The marine life at Ustica is defined by its incredible variety. You will frequently encounter large pelagic species such as amberjack, barracuda, and tuna, particularly in the deeper, more current-swept areas. Schools of dentex, sea bream, and various groupers are common sights around the reefs and pinacles.

The reef architecture is built upon a rich foundation of fixed life, including various species of gorgonians, sponges, and Astroides. You can also find sea fans and beautiful displays of false black coral decorating the walls and pinacles.

For macro enthusiasts, the island is a treasure trove. The crevices and caves are home to a vast array of nudibranchs, various species of shrimp, and octopus. You may also spot moray eels, sea anemones, and small crustaceans like dromies tucked away in the coral structures.

The diving environment in Ustica is shaped by its volcanic origins, resulting in varied topography. Some sites, such as Secchitello, are known for having strong currents, which attracts larger migratory fish but requires more experienced buoyancy and trim.

The underwater landscape includes numerous canyons and narrow passages, particularly in the cave and cavern sites, where divers must be mindful of their finning technique to avoid disturbing the seabed.