The dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) is one of the most important flagship species of the Mediterranean rocky coastal habitats. The area of the Portofino Promontory was appreciated from the '50ties, at the beginning of the scuba diving activities, for the abundance of this species. Visual Census data was collected applying the transect technique. On the whole, 288 VCs within the MPA's waters allowed to record 92 specimens of dusky grouper while only two were censed during the 96 VCs done out of the MPA boundaries. Recorded data shows the positive effect of the MPA for the dusky grouper, clear 2002 (only three years after the Portofino MPA's institution). No relevant differences in abundances were registered respect the level of protection within the MPA's waters.This study stresses the relevance of a specific action plan to protect dusky grouper at Italian and Mediterranean levels, asking for the identification of specific management tools based on the experience of the French moratorium.