Ceuta will once again turn its gaze to the underwater world with the 5th Open Underwater Photography and Video Competition, in tribute to Franci Valero

On 28 November, Ceuta will host a new edition of this event, which brings together diving, underwater photography and the memory of Franci Valero, a figure closely associated with raising awareness of the city’s seabed.

There are stories that live on beneath the surface. Franci Valero’s is one of them. His passion for discovering and photographing Ceuta’s seabed lives on in an initiative which, year after year, brings together those who share his love of diving and underwater photography.

Next Saturday, 28 November 2026, the city will host the 5th Underwater Photography and Video Open, organised by the Ceuta Federation of Underwater Activities and the Real Club Náutico CAS. The event will begin at 9.00 am at the yacht club’s premises.

Beyond the photography itself, this fifth edition will hold special significance: to honour the memory of Franci Valero through what he was most passionate about – exploring the underwater world and sharing its beauty through images.

Ceuta’s underwater riches take centre stage

Ceuta’s geographical location, between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, makes its waters a destination of particular interest for diving and underwater photography enthusiasts.

Beneath the surface lies a natural heritage that often goes unnoticed from the shore. Photography and video bring this world closer to the public, showcasing its landscapes, species and minute details.

The Open offers an opportunity to raise awareness of this natural wealth and to bring together divers, photographers and enthusiasts of underwater activities for a day that will combine sport, socialising and tribute.

Franci Valero: a life dedicated to the sea

To speak of this event is to remember Franci Valero, a man from Ceuta who found in diving much more than just a hobby.

He devoted much of his time to exploring the seabed around his city, documenting its biodiversity and sharing images of an environment he knew intimately. He took part in underwater photography and video competitions and collaborated with local media, helping to reveal a side of Ceuta unknown to many.

Closely associated with the Real Club Náutico CAS and the Ceuta Diving Centre, he also stood out for his personal commitment. Among other initiatives, he took part in the search for a Moroccan diver who had gone missing near the island of Perejil.

Franci Valero passed away on 4 July 2022. Just a few months later, his colleagues at the Real Club Náutico CAS organised the first Franci Valero Memorial Open, turning his passion for the sea into a way of keeping his memory alive.

Five editions united by a shared passion

What began as a tribute amongst colleagues has now reached its fifth edition, establishing an event that goes beyond simply capturing a good underwater photograph.

Each event provides an opportunity to share experiences, enjoy diving and highlight the natural heritage of Ceuta’s coastline.

On 28 November, the cameras will once again be submerged in the waters off Ceuta. And with every image, the memory of the man who devoted so many years to discovering and showcasing the beauty of its seabed will live on.