la grotta del grongo
Calafuria - Livorno
This cave takes its name from a large conger-eel which "guards" the exit. The ceiling of the cave is covered in red (very delicate) coral, while on the muddy bottom there are numerous tube anenomes ( cerianthus membranaceus). The entrance to the cave is at 24 metres and the exit at 18 metres. It is about 20 metres long. The area above the cave is also of interest and can hold pleasant surprises in the form of dentex, amberjacks and barracuda.
A diving centre is recommended, both because of the considerable distance from the shore and in order to ensure the location of the cave opening.
route:
Start by swimming from the shore at the bottom of the cliff on the north side of the bridge. At the exit to the narrow gulf, at the furthest point on the right (facing the sea), set the route to 270°, and swim for about 20 minutes. The sea bed maintains an almost constant depth of 12 metres for most of this stretch, descending to 16 at the drop-off. If the route has been followed carefully, the cave entrance will be right in front of you at a depth of 24 metres. You are about 6 metres below the drop-off. If you do not wish to enter, you can proceed by rising to the top of the rockface. You should not waste too much time as it is a good idea to return to the shore underwater.
By setting the route for 60° (see note) you will come out at the bottom of the cliff near the bar, passing over a mixed sea bed (sand, rock, cobbles) and coming across numerous species of sponge, nudibranchs, anenomes and starfish. Once you get to the coastal wall, keep this on your left and proceed until you find the entrance to the gulf, exactly below the place where the initial route was set for 270°. Turn left and return to the shore. If you are careful with your energy levels, this dive can last for more than 60 minutes.
interest: naturalistic / biological
type of sea floor: gravel, rocks
current: medium
level of difficulty: intermediate
depth: min 18° - max 25°
summer temperature: 22°
winter temperature: 13°
access: from the shore, though a boat is recommended
recommended equipment: standard equipment, compass and torch
notes:
Heading straight for the shore instead of following the same route back is recommended because it allows you to see the wall below the tower, and also prevents any error of calculation in finding the opening to the small gulf and ending up on the south side. If this does happen, you will have to make a long and tiring swim back to the shore.
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