This combination of terrestrial and marine landscapes creates an environment of exceptional environmental value. Within this splendid context, a variety of unique marine habitats and rich biodiversity can be found. Every corner of Capo Carbonara is a treasure to be preserved.
Zone A, designated as a strict reserve, is strictly prohibited from any activity that may cause damage or disturbance to the marine environment. This zone represents the core of the reserve. Generally, only scientific research activities and authorized services are allowed in this limited space. Zone B, designated as a general reserve, permits a range of activities regulated by the management body. These activities allow for the enjoyment of the marine environment while seeking to minimize impact. Zone C, designated as a partial reserve, allows and regulates activities for sustainable enjoyment and use of the sea, with modest environmental impact. This zone acts as a buffer between areas of greater natural value and the sectors outside the protected marine area. Zone D, designated as an experimental reserve, extends protection two miles from the coast, adding an important protective element.
The Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area (AMPCC) is located in the southeastern part of Sardinia. This Marine Area, established by a Decree of the Ministry of the Environment in 1998, modified in 1999, and replaced in 2012, is the third largest Marine Area in Sardinia in terms of size. The Capo Carbonara Protected Marine Area encompasses a territory that stretches from the beautiful Cala Pisano to the striking Punta Is Proceddus. This area also includes the islands of Serpentara and Cavoli, as well as numerous smaller islets such as Congresso, Proci, Santo Stefano, and Variglioni. We must not forget the various shoals that dot the sea, such as Ancore, Berni, Dotti, Libeccio, Mezzo, Piscaddedus, and Santa Caterina. The incredible beauty of Capo Carbonara is revealed through its picturesque rocky beaches, extensive meadows of Posidonia oceanica, and abundant marine bioclastic sediments.
The Regulation.
Marine Protected Area.
Zone A (Strict Nature Reserve).
The following activities are allowed:
- Access by the staff of the Managing Entity for service purposes and by the scientific personnel for authorized research activities.
- Implementation of regulated underwater guided tours by the Managing Entity in nearby areas, following predefined routes and considering environmental conservation needs.
- Rescue and surveillance activities.
- Attività di servizio svolte per conto dell’Ente Gestore.
The following activities are prohibited:
- Swimming.
- Professional, recreational, and underwater fishing.
- Boat transit, except for those belonging to the Marine Protected Area or authorized by it.
Zone B (General Reserve) Activities allowed in Zone A are permitted, and additionally:
- Navigazione con imbarcazioni a bassa velocità non superiori a 10 nodi.
- Regulated underwater guided tours by the Managing Entity of the Marine Protected Area, according to the provisions specified in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Swimming.
- Underwater diving without a self-contained breathing apparatus, in full compliance with the provisions of the Managing Entity and the orders of the Harbor Master’s Office.
- Mooring in structures specifically prepared by the Managing Entity or compatible with the protection of the seabed (sand or rocks).
- Artisanal fishing using selective tools that do not harm the seabed (fixed gillnets, traps, and trammel nets), allowed only for professional fishermen residing in the municipality of Villasimius at the date of entry into force of Decree No. 60 of February 7, 2012, as specified in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Recreational fishing allowed only for residents or equivalent (owners of second homes, boat berths at the Villasimius Naval League, annual berths at the Villasimius Marina), using the techniques and quantities specified in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Whale-watching activities (observation of cetaceans) allowed according to the provisions specified in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
The following activities are prohibited:
- Underwater fishing.
- Immersioni con autorespiratore.
- The use of jet skis, water scooters, and similar vehicles, as well as water skiing or similar water sports practices, is prohibited.
Zone C (Partial Reserve)
The activities allowed in Zone B are permitted, and furthermore:
- Accesso alle navi da diporto.
- Navigation with small boats and vessels at low speed not exceeding 10 knots. Mooring is allowed in the designated structures prepared by the Managing Entity or in a manner compatible with the need to protect the seabed (sandy or rocky).
- Artisanal fishing limited to professional fishermen residing in the municipality of Villasimius at the date of entry into force of Decree No. 60 of February 7, 2012, using selective tools that do not harm the seabed (fixed nets, traps, and trammel nets), according to the procedures established in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Free underwater diving, with or without a self-contained breathing apparatus, is allowed with prior authorization from the managing entity, according to the procedures established in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Recreational fishing is allowed for residents or equivalent (owners of second homes, boat berths at the Villasimius Naval League, annual boat berths at the Villasimius Marina) and non-residents, using techniques and quantities specified in the Implementation and Organization Regulation.
- Attività di whale-watching (osservazione dei cetacei) secondo le modalità stabilite nel Regolamento di Esecuzione ed Organizzazione.
The following activities are prohibited:
Underwater fishing. The use of jet skis, water scooters, and similar vehicles, water skiing, and similar water sports practices are prohibited.
Zona D (Riserva Sperimentale)
The activities allowed in Zone C are permitted, and furthermore:
- Navigation with small boats and vessels at low speed not exceeding 20 knots.
The following activities are prohibited:
Underwater fishing. The use of jet skis, water scooters, and similar vehicles, water skiing, and similar water sports practices.
