Sarl Algajola Sport Nature

Algajola Sport & Nature is a long-standing diving centre situated in the heart of the Balagne region in Haute-Corse. Established in 1993, the centre is positioned directly on the Algajola/Aregno beach, providing immediate access to the water and a convenient base for divers exploring the coastline between Calvi and L'Île-Rousse.

The centre operates with a focus on the diverse Mediterranean topography, ranging from shallow rocky plateaus to deeper vertical walls and historical wrecks. Whether you are looking for your first breath underwater or advanced training, the location allows for easy access to a variety of underwater environments including canyons, reefs, and steep drop-offs.

The team is led by experienced professionals, including Director Florent Messien, a BEES 2, PADI OWSI, and CMAS *** instructor, and Deputy Director Rémi Pez, who holds BEES 1 and PADI MSDT qualifications. Permanent instructor Alexandre Fongaro is a DEJEPS holder, SDI instructor, and first aid instructor.

As a centre affiliated with PADI, FFESSM, CMAS, SDI, and ANMP, they are equipped to handle a broad spectrum of diver requirements. The staff focuses on adapting to the specific needs of each diver, from children starting with introductory programmes to experienced divers seeking more technical challenges.

A comprehensive range of training is available through multiple certifying bodies including PADI, FFESSM, CMAS, and SDI. Beginners can start with Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, or the French Niveau 1 and PE12 programmes. For those looking to progress, the centre offers Advanced Diver, Niveau 2, PA20, PE20, and even Niveau 3 and PE40.

Speciality courses are also available to refine specific skills, such as the PADI Deep Diver Specialty and the buoyancy control specialty. For divers returning to the water after a break, the ReActivate programme is offered. The centre also provides specialised training such as Tétardo and Aquaticus.

The fleet consists of three dedicated vessels. Laetitia II is an 8.40m aluminium barge powered by a 260 ch Volvo Penta engine, with a capacity for 20 passengers. Louisa is a 7.50m aluminium-hulled semi-rigid with a 300 ch Yamaha engine, also accommodating 20 passengers. The third boat, On/Off, is a 7.50m Capelli semi-rigid with a 300 ch Yamaha engine and a capacity for 24 passengers.

Onboard, divers can enjoy hot drinks and local canistrelli during trips. The boats are equipped with essential safety gear including VHF, GPS, a sonar, a first aid kit, and oxygen therapy equipment.

The centre provides full equipment hire using reliable Aqualung kit. They maintain a range of wetsuits in all sizes from 00 to XXL. For those bringing their own gear, there is a dedicated area for rinsing, disinfecting, and storing personal equipment.

On-site technical facilities include a Bauer PE-550 filling station. Safety is a priority, with oxygen therapy equipment maintained on-site and on the boats.

The marine life around Algajola is diverse, with the rocky reefs and canyons hosting large species such as grouper, common dentex, and great barracuda. You will often see moray eels and spiny lobsters tucked into the crevices of the reef, alongside schools of sars and damselfish.

The underwater scenery is defined by rich fixed life, including various gorgonians, sea fans, and encrusting anemones that cover the rocks and walls. Scorpionfish and various species of wrasse are also frequently encountered among the reef structures.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants add significant interest to the dives, with nudibranchs and various crustaceans providing plenty for observant divers. The presence of conger eels and various species of scorpionfish makes the rockwork and wrecks particularly interesting to explore.

The centre operates from March to October. The local topography offers a variety of environments, from shallow plateaus to deep vertical walls, which can be adapted to the daily sea conditions and the specific qualifications of the divers.