Archipel Plongee

Archipel Plongée is situated directly on the Malendure beach in Bouillante, providing immediate access to some of the most significant marine environments in Guadeloupe. Since its founding in 1993, the centre has become a staple of the local diving community, operating from a prime location about 50 km from Pointe-à-Pitre.

The centre is built around the exploration of the local underwater landscape, ranging from the fragile, high-biodiversity reefs of the Réserve Cousteau to the more technical challenges of local wrecks. Whether you are looking for a relaxed reef exploration or a structured training programme, the centre is positioned to serve a wide variety of objectives.

The team is composed of state-qualified and experienced instructors dedicated to maintaining a professional and convivial atmosphere. They provide instruction across multiple certification standards, including FFESSM, PADI, ANMP, and CEDIP, ensuring that divers from different backgrounds can train seamlessly.

Training is inclusive, with specific programmes designed for children and beginners, as well as advanced paths for those seeking professional qualifications. The centre also offers specialized training such as RIFAP. For those looking for more than just a day trip, the club manages comfortable gîtes located just a three-minute drive from the centre, offering integrated diving and accommodation packages.

The centre offers a comprehensive catalogue of training, from initial discovery dives and 'Niveau 1' for beginners to advanced 'Niveau 3' certifications. They also provide specialized FFESSM-aligned courses such as PE12 and PE40.

For those looking to advance their professional skills, the RIFAP qualification is available. All training is conducted by state-qualified instructors, and specific medical certificates are required depending on the level of certification being pursued.

The centre operates two comfortable boats, each with a capacity ranging from 13 to 25 divers. These vessels are equipped with essential safety kit, including VHF radio and oxygen therapy equipment, to ensure security during all outings.

Boat trips cover a variety of formats, including standard daytime explorations, dedicated night dives, and wreck diving excursions. The boats are configured to handle different types of dives, from shallow reef visits to deeper offshore sites.

Full equipment hire is available on-site for divers who do not wish to carry their own kit. This includes all the essentials required for a comfortable dive, from regulators to exposure suits.

Safety is a priority at the shore base, where the centre maintains a modern recompression chamber and oxygen therapy supplies. The facilities are designed to support both autonomous divers and those participating in guided excursions.

The reefs are a vibrant tapestry of hard and soft life, featuring various corals, sea fans, and sponges. You will find a high density of life among the gorgonians and various sponge species that provide the structural backbone of the habitat.

In the water column and around the reef, you can observe a variety of colourful fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, and knightfish. Triggerfish are also common residents of these waters.

Macro life and crustaceans add significant interest to the dives, with spiny lobsters and crabs frequently found amongst the reef structures. Moray eels are also a regular sight in the crevices.

Larger marine life, such as turtles, can be spotted during explorations of the reserve and the surrounding reefs.

The centre offers a variety of dive profiles, including night diving and wreck diving, which require different levels of experience. Divers should note that night dives on wrecks like Le Franjack are particularly suited for those with a confirmed Niveau 1 certification.

For those planning multiple dives in a single day, it is recommended to observe a surface interval of 2 to 3 hours between dives. Additionally, a window of 12 to 14 hours should be observed before flying after a diving session.