Karukera Apnee

Karukera Apnée offers a distinct approach to the waters of Guadeloupe, focusing on immersion libre (freediving), snorkeling, and spearfishing. Founded in 2023 by John Lopez, the centre is dedicated to exploring the unique ecosystems of the region, from the sheltered mangroves to the open sea.

Located in Saint-François, the centre provides access to some of the most significant marine environments in the Petites Antilles. You can choose between calm lagoon explorations or more adrenaline-focused outings in the blue water, all while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental preservation.

The team at Karukera Apnée is composed of experienced professionals, including Erik and John, who bring years of practical experience to every outing. They focus on transmitting technical skills and a deep respect for the marine environment to all participants.

Beyond standard excursions, the instructors are involved in educational workshops and swimming lessons, making them a versatile choice for those looking to improve their aquatic skills. The centre also engages with younger generations through pedagogical activities designed to highlight the fragility of our oceans.

The centre offers specialised training focused on the discipline of breath-hold diving. You can enrol in Apnée Initiation to learn the fundamentals, such as air intake and relaxation techniques, or progress to Apnée Perfectionnement.

The advanced training focuses on technical skills like equalization methods, constant weight descents using fins, and variable weight techniques using a weight to descend before ascending under your own power. These courses are designed to build confidence and efficiency in the water.

The centre operates a 7.60m semi-rigid boat capable of carrying up to 16 people. The vessel is designed for comfort during trips to the various spots around Saint-François and the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin.

Depending on the excursion, the boat is used for everything from calm snorkeling trips in the lagoon to more technical spearfishing outings in the open sea. The semi-rigid configuration ensures stability and ease of access when moving between the boat and the water.

Karukera Apnée provides full equipment hire for all their activities, ensuring you have the appropriate kit for freediving, snorkeling, or spearfishing. This includes everything required to dive comfortably and safely.

For those choosing to participate in night dives or specific underwater explorations, the centre ensures that the necessary kit is available on-site.

The marine life in the Saint-François lagoons and reefs is diverse and vibrant. In the mangroves and coral bars, you will find a variety of small fish, crustaceans, and colourful corals that thrive in the sheltered waters.

During night dives in the Saint-François lagoon, the ecosystem transforms. You can observe nocturnal hunters, sleeping fish, and the shimmering effect of bioluminescent plankton under your torch.

For those heading into the blue water or the eastern reefs, the pelagic life is more prominent. You may encounter larger species such as wahoo, tuna, and dorado, as well as sardines, captain fish, and Spanish mackerel during spearfishing or open-water excursions.

The centre offers a variety of environments, from the calm, protected waters of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin to the more open conditions of the Désirade and the eastern coast. While the lagoons offer sheltered exploration, the open-sea spearfishing trips require more experience with the elements.

Night diving is a regular part of the centre's programme, allowing for a completely different perspective on the lagoon's inhabitants after sunset.