Jumping (literally) into Elba Island, Tuscany

At Dive Elba, we were fitted for such a mission. As I discovered the proper way to remove a wet suit (similar to peeling a potato), I felt inspired to become a diver for life. Even if I did balk at the idea of doing a diving baptism, rather than snorkel, I felt confident the next time I wouldn’t say no.
As the boat’s engine roared to life, we disembarked on the ultimate half day tour. We began by skirting around the southern coast. The Google images hadn’t lied; the surrounding paradise of secluded beaches and rocky outcrops was enviable. It was a bewitching visual, and a reminder of what was to come a few hours later.

But before I could consider the coming events, a lunch locally sourced from the sea at the harbor and a tour of Elba Island’s best beaches, we still had to jump in. We set anchor around a cluster of exposed rocks, a perfect location for divers and snorkelers alike, and finally dove in. Submerged in circles of swarming fish, I forgot about my life on land. For the moment, I felt liberated like I had vacated my life, as a true “vacation” should.

After resurfacing to climb back aboard, we returned to the shore. With good reason, I was hungry. Italian food has a worldwide reputation, I was anxious to try Elba Island’s version.
Geographically shaped like a fish, Elba Island itself is the symbol of the sea. Yet its jewels extend beyond the sandy beaches and snorkeling possibilities.

As we settled around a large table with the glass top reflecting the ships in the harbor, plates arrived with some of the best the Mediterranean has to offer: seared octopus, steamed mussels, pasta complemented with crab, (among various plates of fish I couldn’t name). We raised our glasses, filled with a local revered wine, and said salute!