Diving or scuba diving is a water sport that involves submerging underwater to explore marine environments, at varying depths depending on your experience level. There are many locations in France where you can enjoy this activity.


first time as a diver

What Exactly Is It?

This underwater sport requires certain prerequisites, including medical considerations. It's an activity that demands physical exertion, concentration and good vision.

Basic requirements:

  • Not being pregnant
  • Being able to swim (essential skill)
  • Literacy (for theoretical training)
  • Minimum age 12 years (varies between 8-16 at different clubs)

Important: Cardiac, respiratory, neurological or visual impairments may prevent diving. Consult your GP beforehand if you have any health concerns.


The moment when we are ready to dive

How to Gain Experience?

Multiple diving certifications exist. A discovery dive is mandatory for first-timers. You can choose to do this on a weekend or during holidays.

The Discovery Dive: What to Expect

Before professional certifications, you'll complete a discovery dive: your first immersion (2-6 metres depth) with a certified instructor.

All equipment will be provided: mask, wetsuit, BCD (buoyancy control device) and fins, with proper usage instructions.

The theoretical briefing includes:

  • Equipment handling
  • Safety procedures at the dive site
  • Practice in confined water (pool or sea up to 6m)

After the discovery dive, you can progress to become a certified diver.

Certification bodies:

  • FFESSM (French Federation)
  • PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors)
  • ANMP (National Association of Diving Instructors)
  • SNMP


filling of diving bottles

Level 1 Course: Structure and Content

This certification is just the first step. Advanced levels allow greater depths and can lead to instructor qualifications.

Course structure:

  • Theory: diving principles, air management, safety
  • Confined water sessions: skill development
  • Open water dives: with qualified instructors
  • Final assessment: demonstrating safety procedures

Upon completion, you'll receive your Level 1 Diving Certification.

Note: For diving abroad, seek FFESSM-approved centres.


Autonomy learning in diving