In Melilla, the sea is central throughout the year, so it comes as no surprise that the city excels in water sports and outdoor activities.

Melilla is gaining a good reputation for water sports through the "Semana Náutica Ciudad de Melilla", which takes place during the first fortnight in August and is categorised as high level by the Royal Spanish Sailing Association.

Melilla is also a great port for lovers of underwater fishing. The African Mediterranean coast is one of the prettiest places to take part in this sport, and there are many more species than on the European coast. The governing wind in Melilla is essential for fishing. In Melilla's waters underwater fishing enthusiasts can find not only species of groupers, codfish, sea bream and dorado of up to 5 kg, but also very good clarity, allowing for great dives along the sea bed.

The Noray Marina offers users all types of services of the highest quality. It is located to the south of the port installations and has docking spaces for 339 sports and leisure vessels (of between 6m and 24m in length). The annexe caters for the sailor's every need.

For those who prefer a quiet dip or beach activities, Melilla has 2 kilometres of fine sandy beach, bathed by the safe waters of the Mediterranean. The beach has received the European Union Blue Flag for quality. At coves and on beaches you can enjoy the adventure of hiring a water bike or water skis, as well as all types of sports, with the constant backdrop of the warm Mediterranean waters.

Diving in Melilla and the adjoining area is an unforgettable experience; the clear waters and warm temperature throughout the year, and the rocky seabed teeming with life, invite you to contemplate the many ways marine life adapts to this liquid environment.

Dives are possible in the city waters and also in the area bordering Morocco (Aguadú, Plancha Roja), and all the way along the coast of the enormous geographic accident which is Cabo Tres Forcas (Punta Bermeja, Cala Blanca, La Mina, Los Farallones, etc).

Another possibility is visiting the Chafarine archipelago (you will need to apply for official authorization) twentyseven nautical miles to the east of the city; or Alborán island, to which Cabo Tres Forcas is the closet dry land and Melilla the closest city.

For snorkel enthusiasts, newcomers to enjoying the sea world and for youngsters and children learning to dive, an ideal place - apart from everywhere along Tres Forcas, is the lagoon known as Mar Chica, an inland sea next to Melilla, but in Moroccan territory.

Sometimes, the deeps near Melilla can still offer up surprises, such as when some underwater fishermen found the remains of a 17th or 18th Century galleon. The vessel, found seven kilometres to the east of Melilla, is made up of the keel, nine 340 cm long canons, three anchors with three and a half metre shanks, nine pound cannon balls, an old pulley, and several smaller cannons.