intermediate
    (65)

    Zumaia – Flysch de Zumaia – Basque Country (Euskadi)

    22m Max
    15-30m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    The Flysch de Zumaia is a unique dive where the famous stratified rock formations extend underwater as striking layered cliffs, a geological wonder for divers interested in earth history. Lobsters, wrasse and nudibranchs inhabit the rock, and the clear cool water showcases the strata beautifully. Intermediate divers follow the wall at 6-22 m, while the UNESCO-worthy coastline above adds drama. Zumaia is a must for geology-minded divers in Euskadi. The site rewards careful planning, good buoyancy and respect for Spain’s marine-protection rules, and remains a favourite among divers who value dramatic volcanic or Mediterranean scenery, historic wrecks and rich marine life across a long, varied season. The site rewards careful planning, good buoyancy and respect for Spain’s marine-protection rules, and remains a favourite among divers who value dramatic volcanic or Mediterranean scenery, historic wrecks and rich marine life across a long, varied season. The site rewards careful planning, good buoyancy and respect for Spain’s marine-protection rules, and remains a favourite among divers who value dramatic volcanic or Mediterranean scenery, historic wrecks and rich marine life across a long, varied season. The site rewards careful planning, good buoyancy and respect for Spain’s marine-protection rules, and remains a favourite among divers who value dramatic volcanic or Mediterranean scenery, historic wrecks and rich marine life across a long, varied season.

    Dive Briefing

    "Boat from Zumaia to the flysch and descend along the stratified wall, watching the layered rock for lobsters and nudibranchs. Follow the reef at 12-20 m, then ascend with a safety stop and careful air management. Follow your guide closely, monitor your air and thermal comfort, watch your depth and complete a safety stop before exiting at the designated point to keep the dive safe and enjoyable. Follow your guide closely, monitor your air and thermal comfort, watch your depth and complete a safety stop before exiting at the designated point to keep the dive safe and enjoyable. Follow your guide closely, monitor your air and thermal comfort, watch your depth and complete a safety stop before exiting at the designated point to keep the dive safe and enjoyable. Follow your guide closely, monitor your air and thermal comfort, watch your depth and complete a safety stop before exiting at the designated point to keep the dive safe and enjoyable."

    Signature Marine Life

    Lobster

    medium

    Palinurus elephas

    Best: Year-round

    Wrasse

    high

    Labrus spp.

    Best: Year-round

    Nudibranch

    high

    Chromodoris spp.

    Best: Year-round

    Moray Eel

    high

    Muraena helena

    Best: Year-round

    Gobies

    medium

    Gobius spp.

    Best: Year-round

    Safety & Hazards

    • Current on the site
    • Sharp rock
    • Cold water
    • Surge at the wall
    • Limited shelter
    Nearest Chamber
    Hospital de San Sebastián Hyperbaric Unit
    25km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Suited to Open Water divers and above who want unique geology with macro life in clear water. It suits photographers and those fascinated by underwater rock formations. Confident divers enjoy the deeper wall. It suits confident divers who value dramatic scenery, walls, caves, wrecks and rich marine life, and who plan their trips around the best seasonal and slack-water windows for their certification level. It suits confident divers who value dramatic scenery, walls, caves, wrecks and rich marine life, and who plan their trips around the best seasonal and slack-water windows for their certification level.

    reef
    geological
    zumaia
    basque

    For Non-Divers

    Non-divers can enjoy boat trips, coastal walks, beaches and local cuisine while divers explore the site.

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyintermediate
    CertificationOpen Water
    Currentmoderate
    Water Temp12-22°C
    Best TimeJune - October

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Zumaia Diving
    • Basque Dive Center
    Pricing Guide
    $65 - $120
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    16-35mm
    60mm

    Best for: wide_angle, macro

    Nearby Stay

    Local Dive Lodge

    Zumaia3km away

    Check Availability

    Coastal Guesthouse

    Zumaia5km away

    Check Availability