The Turtle Hospital - Riccione
ONLUS since1988
Discover Fondazione Cetacea: A Unique Marine Conservation Experience in Riccione
If you’re staying on the Adriatic coast and looking for a meaningful activity that connects nature, science, and education, a visit to Fondazione Cetacea is a must. Established in 1988 in Riccione, this non-profit organization has been working for decades to protect the marine environment, particularly sea turtles, which are frequent visitors to the Adriatic Sea.
Since 1994, the foundation has also managed a specialized sea turtle recovery and rehabilitation center, where injured turtles—often caught in fishing nets or affected by pollution—are treated and released back into the wild once they recover.
But Fondazione Cetacea offers much more than rescue operations. It is a hub of marine education and public engagement, aiming to raise awareness among both adults and children about the fragility of our oceans and the importance of marine biodiversity.
Visitors can explore various features of the center, including:
Educational exhibits and photo displays focused on Adriatic marine species
Interactive learning spaces, laboratories, and a dedicated marine library
Conference and workshop areas designed for group learning and community events
Throughout the week, the foundation organizes hands-on activities for guests of all ages:
Daily turtle-viewing tours (9:30–12:30 and 14:30–17:30)
Workshops on marine animals and coastal ecosystems (Tuesday to Saturday)
Public turtle releases, where rehabilitated turtles are returned to the sea
Volunteer and internship programs for those interested in marine conservation
There’s also the opportunity to symbolically adopt a sea turtle, supporting its care and future release—an ideal gift or personal commitment to ocean health.
Fondazione Cetacea offers a rare combination of learning, discovery, and real-world impact. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, it's a powerful reminder of how small actions can support big environmental change.