Abyss Plongee

Located in Saint-Leu on the island of Réunion, Abyss Plongée is a professional dive centre situated just two minutes' walk from the local port and directly facing the beach. The centre operates year-round, providing a reliable base for divers looking to explore the volcanic topography and coral ecosystems of the island.

As a PADI 5 Star IDC centre, the facility is geared towards both recreational exploration and high-level professional training. Whether you are looking for a single guided dive or are pursuing a career as a Divemaster or Instructor, the centre's infrastructure is designed to support a wide range of diving objectives.

The team is led by Thierry Chazalon, a highly qualified professional holding credentials as a PADI Staff Instructor, Master Scuba Diver Trainer, and EFR Instructor Trainer. The instructors are state-qualified (BEES 1° and 2°) and many are also certified PADI and Nitrox instructors, ensuring a high standard of safety and technical knowledge.

The centre provides instruction in multiple languages and is equipped with a dedicated, air-conditioned classroom for theory sessions. From beginner Discover Scuba Diving experiences to advanced professional IDC programmes, the staff is trained to manage all levels of diver competency.

Abyss Plongée offers a comprehensive catalogue of PADI courses. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, progressing through Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver certifications.

For those looking to specialise, the centre teaches PADI specialties including Nitrox, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Drift Diver, and Underwater Orientation, as well as Digital Underwater Photography and DPV (scooter) training. Professional training is a core focus of the centre, offering pathways to become a Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, and full PADI Instructor through the IDC (Instructor Development Course).

The centre operates two distinct vessels for its excursions. The Abyss Barge Carolina Skiff is a 7.50m boat used for local trips, while the Kimya Conéro is an 8.20m vessel.

Both boats are used for various dive types, including morning sessions that can cover two different sites without returning to the port. Night diving is also available on the boats during the summer season from October to March.

On-shore facilities include a dedicated classroom with air conditioning for course theory, as well as showers and toilets for divers to use after their sessions. A terrace is also available for relaxation between dives.

Full equipment hire is available on-site for those not travelling with their own kit. The centre also provides Nitrox for divers requiring enriched air for their profiles.

The marine life around Saint-Leu is defined by its volcanic landscape and coral structures. You will find a variety of corals and sponges, including a unique yellow sponge found only in the Saint-Leu area. The reef slopes and canyons are home to numerous tropical fish, molluscs, and rays.

Macro life is abundant on the reef, where you can encounter peacock mantis shrimp, various crabs, sea slugs, and nudibranchs. Spiny lobsters and slipper lobsters are also part of the local ecosystem.

For those looking for larger animals, sea turtles and various rays are regularly seen. Depending on the season, you may also encounter dolphins, barracudas, jacks, and groupers. Between June and October, humpback whales can be seen in the area.

The centre offers night diving during the summer season, specifically from October to March. Diving is available year-round, with morning departures at 8:00 and afternoon departures at 13:30.