Diver swimming near the black and white mosaic from the "Villa a Protiro" site, called the "Wrestlers" mosaic.
Sofas on which diners reclined in the dining room of the "Ninfeo di Claudio" site.
Polychrome mosaic from the "Terme del Lacus" underwater site. Mosaic representing colored flowers with white, blue and orange tiles.
Salps swimming near the black and white mosaic of the "Villa a Protiro" site, a mosaic depicting Roman shields, called "pelte".
Divers on the surface, ready to dive.
Diver in neutral buoyancy during safety stop.
Couple of divers underwater posing for photo holding hands.
Couple of divers underwater holding hands, arms open posing for photo.
Diver near the "Waves" mosaic of the "Portus Julius" site.
Divers posing in front of the statue of the god Dionysus of the "Nymphaeum of Claudius" site.
Shoal of barracudas.
Redfish on a rock.
Brown grouper leaning against a wall full of yellow sea fans.
Front photo of a green grouper.
Side photo of a brown grouper.
Statue of the god Dionysius from the "Nymphaeum of Claudius" site.
Dogfish egg resting on red coral.
Brown and orange lobster emerging from its burrow.
Statue of the daughter of Emperor Claudius, Octavia Claudia, from the "Nymphaeum of Claudius" site.
Semi-circular signs on the ground of the entrance "gate" of the "Villa a Protiro" site.
Listing ID : 52717

Activity

Duration3 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtDiving Center, Baia, Naples
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish, Italian
Discover Scuba Diving

Discover Scuba Diving in the Archaeological Park of Baia

Dive into the submerged ruins of an ancient Roman city without any prior experience.


This discover scuba diving Baia experience invites first-time divers to explore one of the most extraordinary underwater archaeological sites in the world, the partially submerged Roman city of Baia, guided by PADI-certified instructors every step of the way. No license or previous diving experience is required, and participants as young as ten years old are welcome to join.

The ancient city of Baia was a favored retreat of Roman emperors and senators, renowned for its thermal baths and lavish villas. Over centuries, the volcanic phenomenon known as bradyseism caused the ground to slowly sink, submerging entire sections of the city to a depth of roughly four meters, where the sea has since preserved mosaics, marble floors, and statues in remarkable condition.

The experience follows PADI standards and begins at the diving center with a short theoretical briefing, ensuring every participant understands the basic principles of diving, how the equipment functions, and how to move safely underwater. Instructors accompany divers throughout the entire dive, providing hands-on support and ensuring a secure and enjoyable visit.

After surfacing and returning to the center, participants have access to showers and changing rooms. The completed dive is officially recognized by PADI as the first qualifying dive toward a full Open Water Diver certification, redeemable at any PADI center worldwide.

Tour Highlights

Dive among the actual ruins of the submerged Roman city of Baia, including ancient mosaics, statues, and marble floors.

Experience follows full PADI standards and counts as the first qualifying dive toward an Open Water Diver certification.

No prior diving experience or license required, with a minimum age of ten years old.

Travel by boat to the Archaeological Park of Baia and follow an official visit route established by the Park.

PADI instructors remain by your side throughout the entire dive, providing constant guidance and safety support.

All diving equipment is provided, so participants only need to bring a swimsuit and a towel.

Explore a geological wonder shaped by the Phlegrean Fields, one of the most active volcanic areas in Europe.

How the Experience Unfolds

1
Arrival and Check-In

Upon booking, participants receive a medical screening form and a brief e-learning module covering the fundamentals of diving. Arrive at the diving center and complete any remaining formalities with the team.

2
Theoretical Briefing

A PADI instructor leads a short classroom session covering diving equipment, basic techniques, and water safety. This session ensures every participant feels confident and prepared before entering the water.

3
Equipment Fitting

All necessary diving gear is provided and fitted to each participant at the center. Only a swimsuit and towel are needed from your side.

4
Boat Transfer to the Park

The group boards a boat and travels to the Archaeological Park of Baia. The crossing offers views of the Phlegrean coastline before descending into the ruins.

5
Underwater Dive — Approximately 45 Minutes

Instructors accompany participants along one of the official Park visit routes, passing ancient Roman structures, mosaics, and marine life. The depth reaches approximately four meters, making it suitable for complete beginners.

6
Return and Certification

After the dive, the group returns to the center where showers and changing rooms are available. Each participant receives an official PADI record of the completed dive, valid worldwide.

What Is Included and Excluded

Included

  • PADI-certified instructor guidance throughout
  • All diving equipment (wetsuit, mask, fins, tank, BCD, regulator)
  • Boat transfer to and from the Archaeological Park of Baia
  • Pre-dive theoretical briefing and e-learning module
  • Park entrance fees for the underwater area
  • Showers and changing room access post-dive
  • Official PADI first dive certification record

Not Included

  • Medical certificate (required if indicated by the screening form)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for instructors
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs

Important Information

Please complete the medical screening form as soon as you book. If a medical certificate is required based on your responses, you must obtain one from a doctor before participating. Participants who cannot provide the required certificate when needed may be unable to dive.
Duration
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including briefing, boat transfer, a 45-minute dive, and return to the center.
Meeting Point
The experience begins at the diving center located in Baia, in the Phlegrean Fields area near Naples. Exact meeting details are provided upon booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes for after the dive. All diving equipment is supplied by the center.
Cancellation
Cancellation policies are provided at the time of booking. Dives may be rescheduled or cancelled due to adverse weather or sea conditions for participant safety.
Accessibility
Participants must be in good general health. The screening form completed at booking determines whether a medical certificate from a physician is required prior to diving.
Age Range
The minimum age to participate is ten years old, in line with PADI Discover Scuba Diving program requirements. There is no upper age limit provided a medical clearance is obtained if required.

Ready to Dive into Ancient Rome?

Secure your place on this unique underwater archaeological experience in the Bay of Naples and take your first certified dive among the ruins of a civilization that has been waiting beneath the waves for two thousand years.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a diving license to participate?
No license or prior diving experience is required. This is a Discover Scuba Diving experience designed specifically for first-time divers and follows the PADI introductory program.
What is the minimum age to join this dive?
The minimum age to participate is ten years old, in accordance with PADI Discover Scuba Diving standards.
Will I need a medical certificate?
Upon booking, you will receive a medical screening form. Whether a certificate from a doctor is needed depends on your answers. You can also check the requirements in advance through the link provided by the diving center.
Does this dive count toward a PADI certification?
Yes. Upon completion, the instructor issues an official PADI record confirming that this counts as the first qualifying dive of a PADI Open Water Diver course. This record is valid at any PADI diving center worldwide.
How deep is the dive and how long does it last?
The submerged Roman ruins lie at approximately four meters depth, making this an ideal environment for beginners. The underwater portion of the experience lasts approximately 45 minutes.
What equipment do I need to bring?
All diving equipment is provided by the center. Participants only need to bring a swimsuit, a towel, and optionally a change of clothes for after the dive.
Scuba DivingBaiaUnderwater ArchaeologyPADIDiscover ScubaRoman RuinsPhlegrean FieldsNaplesBeginner DivingArchaeological ParkUnderwater HeritageItaly Adventure
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: baia-discover-scuba-001

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

3 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Spanish - Speaking Guide

Italian - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

End Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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