Whale Diving

Whale Diving is situated in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Réunion, operating from the Port de plaisance. The centre is built around a commitment to ocean conservation and high-quality, intimate diving experiences that move away from large-scale tourism.

Directed by Paco (François Fournier), a DEJEPS instructor and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, the centre brings over 20 years of international experience to the local waters. This expertise is particularly evident in their specialised approach to cetacean observation, ensuring that encounters with the island's magnificent marine mammals are conducted responsibly.

The centre is led by François Fournier, a qualified DEJEPS instructor and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer. His extensive background in international diving ensures that both local reef exploration and specialised programmes are handled with professional precision.

To maintain a high standard of safety and individual attention, the centre operates with a strict ratio of maximum six divers per guide. This small-group approach allows for a more personalised experience, whether you are working through a certification course or exploring a new site.

Communication is straightforward for international divers, as the team is proficient in French, English, and Spanish. This multilingual capability makes the centre a reliable choice for divers from various backgrounds looking to train or explore the Réunion coastline.

Whale Diving offers a comprehensive range of training through multiple certifying bodies, including PADI, SSI, CMAS, NAUI, FFESSM, BSAC, RAID, and PSAI. You can begin your journey with entry-level courses such as Open Water Diver or the French Niveau 1 and Niveau 2 certifications.

For more advanced divers, the centre provides specialised training including Nitrox, PE40, and PA20. They also cater to those following SDI/TDI pathways, ensuring that divers can find the specific certification that matches their professional or recreational goals.

The centre provides complete equipment hire for your diving activities, including wetsuits, masks, and cylinders. This allows you to dive without needing to transport your own heavy kit to the port.

For those looking to extend their bottom time or manage nitrogen loading more effectively, Nitrox is available on-site. This is a significant advantage for divers planning multiple dives or those looking to maximise their time on the reef.

The reefs around Saint-Gilles-les-Bains are a haven for diverse marine life. You will regularly encounter sea turtles, stingrays, and various species of moray eels navigating the coral structures. The waters are also home to abundant tropical fish and healthy coral colonies that provide a complex habitat for the local ecosystem.

During the high season from July to September, the area becomes a significant site for observing Humpback whales. The centre follows the CAP protocol (Comprendre, Approcher, Protéger) to ensure these encounters are respectful and minimise any disturbance to the animals.

In the surrounding waters, you can also find spinner dolphins and various other pelagic species. The presence of rich plankton in the southern feeding zones supports a robust food chain, making the area a dynamic environment for both large mammals and smaller reef inhabitants.

Diving is accessible throughout the year, with the most significant seasonal activity occurring between July and September for whale watching. The local marine environment is influenced by nutrient-rich waters, particularly in the southern feeding areas where plankton is abundant.

The reef flats and surrounding areas provide various habitats, though divers should always be mindful of the local conditions when planning their excursions.