Tappa Circuito Nazionale FINP Acque Libere

The waters off Mondello in late June maintain a steady temperature, typically hovering around 23-24°C, providing a comfortable environment for the 500m, 1500m, and 3000m distances. Swimmers here navigate a unique geological history, as the seabed drops in distinct 'gradoni' at depths of -18m, -30m, and -40m, marking the position of ancient coastlines from when the sea level was significantly lower. Currents in this stretch are generally mild, but swimmers should remain aware of the local hydrodynamics near the capes, where minor inflow and outflow patterns develop. The marine landscape is alive with biodiversity; it is not uncommon to spot loggerhead sea turtles gliding below, while the occasional bottlenose dolphin may venture near the outer buoys. Pelagic visitors, such as tuna or moonfish, also transit these depths during the summer season.

Historical and natural landmarks

As you glide through the course, the coastline reveals layers of deep history, starting with the Addaura cave engravings on the slopes of Mount Pellegrino. These Paleolithic and Mesolithic markings, depicting figures in mysterious, ritualistic poses, look out over the bay where you swim. Further along the reserve, the Grotta Regina sanctuary stands as a link to the past; once a Neolithic sacred site, it became a dedicated sanctuary for the goddess Isis during the Phoenician-Punic era of Palermo. If your stroke takes you toward the Malpasso cliff, keep an eye out for the Grotta dell'Olio. Sunlight enters through a fissure in its 10-meter domed ceiling, catching the white sandy bottom to illuminate the water with a sharp, brilliant turquoise glow. Just 300 meters north of the Isola delle Femmine, the Finistruna formation awaits. This vertical wall drops from -30m to -55m and earned its name—'big windows'—from local fishermen who used the alignment of the island's tower windows to pin-point its exact location from the surface. This event, organized by the FINP, provides a technical challenge suited for all abilities, with a format that brings athletes together to compete in one of Sicily’s most storied maritime settings. For those looking to return to this coast later in the season, the Ludistar Sport Experience offers a different pacing in the same waters this coming September.