Centre International de Plongée

The Centre International de Plongée (CIP) Glénan is a landmark institution in the French Atlantic, having operated as a non-profit association since 1956. It is situated within the Glénan Archipelago, one of the most ecologically preserved marine environments in the region. This location provides direct access to a diverse underwater landscape that is quite distinct from the more common coastal diving seen elsewhere in France.

Unlike a standard dive shop, the CIP operates as a community-focused association where the spirit of mutual aid and shared responsibility is central to the experience. You will find yourself part of a collective life on the island of Saint-Nicolas, where the focus is on the transmission of skills and a deep respect for the marine environment.

The centre is managed by volunteers and is affiliated with the FFESSM, following the traditional French diving federation structure. This affiliation ensures a rigorous approach to training and safety, with a curriculum that spans from the very first breaths underwater to the highest levels of professional qualification.

Training at the centre is comprehensive, covering Niveau 1, MF1, and cadre (instructor/management) formations. The community aspect is a core part of the identity here; members often participate in the daily running of the island, from kitchen duties to seamanship tasks, fostering a genuine sense of camaraderie among divers of all generations.

The centre offers a complete progression of courses according to the FFESSM standards. You can begin with initiation and Niveau 1 training, progressing through to the MF1 level. For those looking to enter the professional side of diving, the centre also provides cadre formations to train future instructors and diving leaders.

For those who prefer not to carry their own heavy kit, a range of equipment is available for hire, including wetsuits, fins, and masks. Please note that a deposit is required for rental items. The centre is located at the Cale de l'Aiguillon in Concarneau, which serves as the departure point for trips to the archipelago.

Diving in the Glénan Archipelago is subject to the typical conditions of the Atlantic coast. You should be prepared for varying currents and swell, which are characteristic of the canyon environments and the open nature of the archipelago. Planning your dives around the local tides and Atlantic swell is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.