Double Deep Diving Center

Double Deep Diving Center is situated on the private Ambarihonko beach in Nosy Be, Madagascar. Set amidst lush vegetation and right on the water's edge, the centre provides a quiet, relaxed environment to prepare for your dives or unwind after them.

The centre was founded by divers with a deep connection to the local marine environment, particularly the annual migration of humpback whales. This focus on natural history extends to their approach to diving, where the goal is to share the scale and beauty of the ocean through a naturalist's lens.

The centre is led by Daniela De Angelis, a PADI instructor who has been guiding in Nosy Be since 2017, and Alberto Marmiroli, a PADI and SSI instructor with an interest in technical diving. Both are experienced underwater photographers, meaning they can offer specific guidance to those looking to improve their underwater imagery.

Instruction is provided in English, Italian, and French. The team maintains a low diver-to-guide ratio, with a maximum of four divers per guide, ensuring safety and a more intimate experience on the water.

Double Deep Diving Center offers a full range of training through PADI and SSI. Beginners can start with Try Scuba or the Open Water Diver course, with progression available through the Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, and Rescue Diver certifications.

For those looking to move into professional diving, the centre provides Divemaster training. The instructors' background in photography and naturalism also makes this an ideal environment for divers looking to refine their skills in those specific areas.

The centre operates a 7.5-metre boat equipped with an awning for shade during trips. The vessel is used for local reef explorations, night dives, and excursions to reach various sites north and south of the island, including more remote, less frequented locations.

The team manages your equipment for you; cylinders are assembled on the boat and your kit is rinsed upon your return to the centre. For safety, the centre carries oxygen on board and maintains a full first aid kit, alongside GPS, depth sounders, and compasses.

The waters around Nosy Be are home to a diverse array of large marine life. Depending on when you visit, you may encounter Humpback whales from mid-August to mid-October, or Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) between October and January, with a peak in November.

Pelagic species are a regular highlight, including various sharks such as Whitetip reef sharks (Triaenodon obesus), Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus), and Grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos). You will also find encounters with various rays, including blue-spotted stingrays, manta rays (Mobula alfredi), and mobula rays.

The reef itself is built upon a rich foundation of corals, gorgonians, and sea fans (Gorgoniidae). Within this structure, you can find schools of colourful fish including fusiliers (Caesio), snappers (Lutjanus), and various species of wrasse (Labridae).

For those interested in macro life, the area offers significant variety. Look out for Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda), and various species of frogfish and scorpionfish. Crustaceans such as Spiny lobster (Palinuridae) and various species of shrimp are also present among the reef structures.

The centre's strategic position allows for access to a variety of sites, ranging from shallow reef flats to deeper offshore locations. While specific current and swell data are not provided, the team uses GPS and depth sounders to navigate the local waters safely.