Diego Diving Plongee Mario Matteo

Located at Port Jasmine in Diego-Suarez, Diego Diving Mario Matteo has been a fixture of the local diving community since 2010. As the only established club in the area, it provides a reliable base for divers looking to explore the unique marine environments of northern Madagascar.

The centre operates as an eco-conscious association, deeply integrated into the local ecosystem. Beyond recreational diving, they maintain strong ties to the scientific community, working with the University of Diego-Suarez and providing educational programmes for local students to study marine biodiversity.

The centre is a family-run operation directed by Mario Matteo, father and son. The team is composed of State-qualified instructors (Moniteurs Diplômés d’État) who bring a high level of professional standard to every dive.

Their commitment to marine science is evident in their daily operations. The club works closely with the local French school (AEFE) and the University of Diego-Suarez, often involving themselves in technical training such as the PA-12m course for marine biology students.

The centre offers a wide range of certifications through multiple international and national bodies, including PADI, FFESSM, CMAS, and ANMP. This allows divers to follow their preferred training system, whether they are looking for recreational certifications or more structured French-style training.

Technical training is a core part of their curriculum, specifically catering to students and professionals through courses like the PA-12m. This academic approach to diving makes them a specialist choice for those interested in the intersection of diving and marine biology.

The local waters are home to a diverse array of pelagics and reef residents. You can regularly observe great barracuda, jacks, and large groupers patrolling the area, alongside Napoleon wrasse and various rays.

Turtle sightings are a highlight of the local marine life, particularly around dedicated sites like L'îlot aux tortues. These large reptiles are a constant presence for those diving the regional reefs.

The reef structure itself is vibrant, supported by a healthy variety of corals that provide the foundation for the local ecosystem. These corals host a constant stream of life, from smaller reef fish to larger predators.

The best time to dive in this region is during the austral summer, from mid-September to mid-May. During this period, the conditions are most favourable for outings into the bay.

Between mid-May and mid-September, the area experiences the 'varatraza', a very strong trade wind. This wind can make departures from the bay difficult or even impossible, so plan your trips accordingly during the austral winter.