Eperlan

Eperlan Plongée is situated in the port of Cavalaire-sur-Mer, serving as a gateway to some of the most significant underwater sites in the Var region. The centre has established itself as a specialist in wreck diving, guiding divers through the exploration of large, historic vessels and complex rocky topographies.

The centre's operational area is extensive, stretching from the Hyères islands to the waters off Cap Camarat. Whether you are looking to explore deep wrecks or navigate rocky reefs, the centre's focus on technical proficiency and safety makes it a reliable base for both local and visiting divers.

The team is led by Momo, the manager, alongside Fred and Aldo. The technical side of the centre is well-supported by Aldo, who is a qualified rebreather instructor, ensuring that those looking to progress into closed-circuit diving have access to expert guidance.

Training is offered through the FFESSM and CMAS affiliations, covering a wide spectrum of skill levels. This includes specialised programmes for children, ranging from Bronze to Gold levels, as well as professional instructor training.

The training catalogue is extensive, following the FFESSM and CMAS frameworks. Beginners can start with the Niveau 1 (PE20) course, while more advanced divers can progress through Niveau 2 (PE40 and PA20) and Niveau 3 (PA60) certifications.

For those looking to expand their gas management skills, Nitrox courses are available, including both simple and confirmed levels. The centre also caters to the technical community with rebreather instruction and professional monitorat training.

The Eperlan II is a 15-metre aluminium vessel with a capacity for 37 divers. It is designed to be versatile, offering shaded areas for protection against the elements or open deck space to enjoy the sun.

On board, you will find practical amenities including cylinder racks, benches, and raised netting for keeping your dry gear organised. For post-dive comfort, the boat is equipped with a freshwater shower and bars to hang your wetsuits. The vessel is also configured with two custom-made ladders to ensure safe and easy access for divers during entries and exits.

The centre provides a comprehensive range of rental kit for those not travelling with their own equipment. This includes wetsuits, BCDs, full regulator sets, and secondary/octopus regulators. For dive planning and night excursions, you can also hire dive computers and torches.

For technical divers, the centre offers specialised cylinder rentals, including 12-litre or 15-litre cylinders and 100% O2 decompression bottles. All cylinder fills are included in your dive booking.

The wrecks and rocky reefs are home to a variety of large Mediterranean species. You will frequently encounter groupers (Epinephelus), dentex, and various species of sea bream (Sparidae) patrolling the structures. Large predators like the great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) and various scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) add to the excitement of the dive.

In the crevices and around the reef flats, look for moray eels (Muraenidae) and conger eels (Congridae). The rocky areas are often populated by wrasse (Labridae), bogue (Boops boops), and Mediterranean damselfish, while goatfish and seabream move across the sandy patches.

Macro life and invertebrates are abundant throughout the area. Keep an eye out for lobsters (Homaridae), galatheid squat lobsters, and various sea fans (Gorgoniidae). The seabed is also decorated with purple sponges and various other invertebrates that thrive in the Mediterranean ecosystem.

The centre operates with two main departure times, typically at 8:30 and 14:30. Divers should be aware that the centre maintains a strict policy regarding punctuality to ensure safe and timely departures.

The diving area ranges from the sheltered waters near the coast to the more exposed sites around the Hyères islands and Cap Camarat, where swell and currents may vary depending on the specific site and weather conditions.