Atao

ATAO Plongée is located at the Grande Anse d’Arlet pontoon on the Caribbean coast of Martinique. The centre is positioned to take advantage of the local reef systems, which are renowned for their healthy coral populations and abundant marine life.

Operating with a maximum of 14 people per trip, the centre maintains an intimate atmosphere for its outings. Whether you are looking for a day of reef exploration or a specialised course, the focus remains on understanding the local ecosystem and the behaviours of the species you encounter underwater.

Managed by Chloé and Olivier, the centre provides professional guidance for all levels of experience. The team conducts daily excursions, though they are closed on Saturdays.

Instruction is provided in French. The programmes are designed to be educational, with a specific emphasis on the biodiversity of the Martinique reefs and the protection of local species like sea turtles.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training programmes through various certifying bodies. Beginners can start with a Discover Scuba Diving (Baptême de plongée) or a Niveau 1 course, while children can participate in the BubbleMaker programme.

For certified divers, the curriculum includes Open Water, Advanced, Deep Diver, and Rescue courses. They also offer specialised training such as the PE40 and specific workshops focused on Turtles and Marine Biodiversity.

The centre operates a catamaran that carries a maximum of 14 passengers. It is used for daily diving trips, snorkeling excursions, and can be privatised for larger groups.

On board, you will find amenities including water, snacks, and a BBQ meal. For relaxation between dives, the boat is equipped with paddles, hammocks, and swings.

Full equipment hire is available for both scuba diving and snorkeling. This includes masks, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits, allowing you to travel light to the pontoon.

For those interested in night diving or exploring the reefs at dusk, the centre provides the necessary kit for night snorkeling and bioluminescence sessions.

The reefs and seagrass meadows around Anses d’Arlet are a major draw for divers, particularly for those wishing to see sea turtles. You will regularly encounter Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) grazing on the seabed.

The surrounding waters are populated by a variety of reef fish, including parrotfish, angelfish (Pomacanthidae), and various species of snapper (Lutjanus). You can also observe surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), butterflyfish (Chaetodon), and schools of bigeye trevally (Caranx).

In the more complex structures of the reef, look for moray eels (Muraenidae), triggerfish (Balistidae), and various species of rays, including stingrays and leopard rays. Spiny lobsters (Palinuridae) and other crustaceans like crabs and arrow crabs inhabit the crevices.

The seafloor is a vibrant landscape of multicolored corals, sponges, and large sea anemones. You may also spot smaller details like Christmas tree worms and fireworms among the fixed life.

The centre operates daily departures from the Grande Anse d’Arlet pontoon, typically starting in the morning. The area is accessible from major points including Les Trois-Îlets, Le Diamant, and Sainte-Luce.