A unique experience among the green treasures of the sea – Professionally guided snorkeling (seawatching) in Piran Bay

Activity

Start Location: Seča 142, 6320 Portorose • Show on the map

Duration

2 hours and 30 minutes

Description

Discover the enchanting beauty of Slovenia’s seagrass meadows with a professionally guided snorkeling tour and underwater exploration in Piran Bay. By joining this experience, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable adventure while contributing to the protection of the marine ecosystem.

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Program

Experience Award-Winning Eco-Snorkeling in Slovenia

This unique experience was awarded 1st prize in the INOVA TOUR Koper competition for fresh ideas in tourism!

Who is it for?

This snorkeling and seawatching adventure is perfect for individuals, couples, families, and nature lovers of all ages.

What will you experience?

Join us in exploring the green treasures of the sea – the unique underwater world of seagrass meadows along the Slovenian coast. These meadows are vital marine habitats, providing shelter, food, and breeding grounds for countless sea creatures — from tiny anemones, crabs, and mollusks to colorful fish, delicate seahorses, and even sea turtles.On sunny days, you may even witness tiny oxygen bubbles rising from the seagrass leaves – a magical sight that highlights the vital role these meadows play in the marine ecosystem.

What is seawatching?

Seawatching is a gentle form of snorkeling where you float calmly on the water’s surface using only a mask and snorkel — no diving required. This relaxed, eco-friendly approach allows you to observe marine life while enjoying the tranquility of the sea.No prior experience? No problem! Our experienced guides will teach you the basics so you can confidently enjoy your adventure.

Learn as You Explore

Under the expert guidance of marine biologists, divers, and conservationists, you’ll discover how underwater ecosystems work and why seagrass meadows are essential to marine life. It's an opportunity to learn through direct experience and connect with the sea in a whole new way.

Taste the Istrian Tradition

After your underwater journey, enjoy a tasting of authentic Istrian delicacies — freshly baked local bread, premium olive oil, and sea salt. This culinary experience connects you to the region's rich coastal heritage.Olive oil, often called “liquid gold,” symbolizes the long-standing olive-growing tradition in Istria. Bread represents warmth and hospitality, while salt, once a precious commodity, ties you directly to the sea. Together, they create the perfect ending to your above-and-below-the-surface sea adventure.

Why Are Seagrass Meadows and Posidonia oceanica So Important?

Seagrass meadows are often called the "lungs of the sea", thanks to their incredible ability to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen — over 14 liters per square meter per day.They play a crucial role in fighting climate change by stabilizing seabeds, improving water quality, and calming currents. Without them, coastal ecosystems would suffer a dramatic loss in biodiversity, endangering the balance of marine life.One of the most important seagrass species, Posidonia oceanica, reaches its northernmost distribution near Žusterna, close to Koper — the only place in Slovenia where it still thrives. This gives the local meadows exceptional ecological value.Equally fascinating are the lush meadows of Cymodocea nodosa near Cape Seča, close to Portorož.

How Can You Help Protect the Sea While Snorkeling?

Snorkeling is a simple and beautiful way to explore the ocean — but it's important to do it responsibly. Here’s how you can help protect the marine environment during your visit:

  • Don’t step on or damage the seagrass, and avoid disturbing marine life.
  • Never touch or feed sea creatures.
  • If you see trash in the water, pick it up — small actions make a big difference.
  • Follow your guide’s safety instructions to protect both yourself and the ecosystem.

By snorkeling responsibly, you help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the sea for future generations.

Your role in protecting the Sea?

By purchasing this experience, you've supported the work of the YouSea Institute in its broader mission to protect the sea and its organisms. Participants also have the opportunity to become members of the YouSea Institute and take an active role in preserving marine biodiversit

Start location: Seča 142, 6320 Portorose • Show on the map

The meeting point for this experience is at the Fonda Fish Farm, located at the end of the Jernej Canal, on the edge of the Secovlje Salina Nature Park – it's the last building on the left side of the road. The entrance to our courtyard, where you can park your vehicle, is marked by the Fonda sign on the right side, next to a large old olive tree.

We kindly ask visitors to arrive exactly at the scheduled time – not earlier and not later – as you will be joining a group of other guests. There may be another group before or after yours.

Minimum number of participants

2

Maximum number of participants

10

Transportation

You need to take care of your own transportation.

Difficulty level

Moderate (Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level)

Additional information

Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection to make the most of your experience

What is included:
  • All necessary equipment
  • Guiding
  • Lifejacket
  • Tasting menu

We provide all the necessary snorkeling gear — mask, snorkel, fins, and a safety vest — to ensure your experience is both safe and comfortable.

What is not included:
  • Drink
  • Insurance
  • Purchase additional drinks