Over 100 participants from 19 countries to compete in l'Estartit Underwater Photography World Championship

From 6 to 12 October 2025, L’Estartit will become the global epicentre underwater photography hosting the CMAS 2025 World Championship of Underwater Photography and Video. A total of 101 athletes from 19 countries will participate, organised into 30 photography teams and 14 video teams, with 13 team captains and official representatives.

For the first time, the Inclusive Underwater Photography World Cup will also take place, with 10 participants from 4 countries, forming 4 inclusive teams.

A competition open to the public

The championship will begin on Monday, 6 October at 5:00 p.m. with an official opening ceremony at the Sala Polivalent in L’Estartit, preceded by a flag parade led by local schoolchildren. Before that, visitors can enjoy a traditional fisherman songs in the Plaça de l’Església.

Throughout the week, the public can visit the “The Faces of the Cameras” exhibition at the EMD event hall, featuring unique pieces from the private collection of underwater filmmaker Christian Petron, including historic cameras used by Jacques Cousteau and other early underwater photography pioneers.

A sustainable and responsible event

The competition will take place within the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, one of the most ecologically rich areas in the Mediterranean. A strict zero contact protocol will be enforced, prohibiting all physical interaction with marine life or the seabed  a pioneering initiative that places sustainability and conservation at the core of the event.

L’Estartit’s dive centres, known for their commitment to environmental and inclusive practices, will play a key organisational role, leveraging decades of experience and marine stewardship.

With over 100 international athletes and their support teams, the event will have a significant economic and promotional impact, reinforcing L’Estartit and the Medes Islands as a leading destination for sustainable marine and sports tourism.

CHECK OUT THE PROGRAM