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The Pelagos Sanctuary: A Shelter for the Giants of the Sea
If you have always dreamed of seeing whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, Liguria offers a unique opportunity thanks to the Pelagos Sanctuaryone of the most important marine protected areas in the Mediterranean.
Located between Italy, France and the Principality of Monaco, the Pelagos Sanctuary covers 87,500 km² and is an ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Thanks to nutrient-rich currents, eight cetacean species can be encountered here, including the majestic minke whalethe sperm whale and the nice bottlenose dolphin.
Which Cetaceans Can You Spot?
Common fin whale - The second largest animal in the world, capable of reaching a length of 24 metres.
Sperm whale - The largest odontocete, famous for its dives down to 3,000 metres.
Bottlenose dolphin - The classic 'bottle-nosed dolphin', known for its intelligence and sociability.
Striped dolphin - The acrobat of the sea, capable of performing spectacular leaps out of the water.
Zifio - A rare and elusive cetacean, capable of record-breaking dives.
Grampo - A dolphin with skin marked by white scars, due to social interactions with other specimens.
Globicephalus - The 'pilot dolphin', known for the strong social cohesion of its pod.
Where and How to Spot Cetaceans
The best starting point
The port of Loano, located about 10 minutes from the Brezza di Sale flats, it is the ideal starting point for an excursion of whale watching. Here you will find boats with marine biologists on boardready to guide you through an educational and fascinating experience.
Tips for a Perfect Excursion
✔ Book in advanceespecially in the high season.
✔ Layered clothing and take a windproof jacket with you.
✔ Respect the distance from the animals so as not to disturb them.
✔ If you get seasick, take precautions before leaving...
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
Protecting cetaceans is essential!
The cetaceans of the Pelagos Sanctuary face threats such as marine pollution, vessel traffic and climate change. Here is how to contribute to their protection:
Choose certified operators for whale watching.
Reduce the use of plastic to protect the marine environment.
Participates in awareness-raising activities for the protection of cetaceans.
Download the Complete Guide!
Would you like to learn more?
Download the complete guide of Salt Breeze! You will find detailed information on the species present, the best sighting techniques and lots of practical advice on how to enjoy this environmentally friendly experience.
Download your LiguriAutentica👇 guide here

Where to stay?
Book Your Stay and set off on an adventure!

The flats Brezza di Sale are the ideal starting point for a trip into nature and Ligurian authenticity. After an exciting day at sea, you can relax in a cosy and comfortable house in the heart of the
Western Liguria.
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