L'Escalet Plongee

L'Escalet Plongee is situated in the coastal area of Ramatuelle, providing direct access to some of the most varied underwater topography in the region. The centre specialises in a mix of rocky reef exploration, dramatic drop-offs, and significant wreck diving.

Whether you are looking for a shallow discovery dive or a deep technical excursion, the local sites offer everything from sandy bottoms to vertical walls. The club operates from early May until late October, making the most of the Mediterranean season.

The centre is led by Eric Camilleri, a qualified MF2 and DEJEPS instructor. His expertise ensures a high standard of instruction for both recreational divers and those looking to progress through the FFESSM-CMAS certification levels.

In addition to standard training, Eric is a Nitrox instructor, providing specialised training for those looking to extend their bottom times. The club is well-suited for groups of autonomous divers, particularly outside of the peak months of July and August.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of FFESSM-CMAS training programmes. This includes the N1, N2, and N3 levels, as well as specialized PE40 and PE60 certifications.

For divers looking to advance their technical skills, Nitrox Elementary and Nitrox Confirmed courses are available. The centre also provides RIFAP training, ensuring a complete pathway for divers at every stage of their progression.

The primary vessel is the Tempest 750, a modern semi-rigid boat powered by a 225hp Mercury engine. It is configured to carry up to 16 cylinders and features a tip top to provide shade for divers on board.

For navigation and safety, the boat is equipped with a fixed VHF and a Garmin GPS-sonar system. The deck is designed for efficient dive operations, ensuring you can focus on the dive rather than the logistics of the boat.

On shore, the centre is equipped with a BAUER compressor capable of 33m3/h, featuring four air banks and two Nitrox banks. A wide variety of cylinder sizes is available, including 18L, 15L, 10L, 7L, and 6L oxygen pony bottles.

For those requiring rental kit, the centre stocks Scubapro equipment, including MK17, C370, and R095 regulators. Wetsuit hire includes 7mm Oneflex models ranging from size S to XXXL, paired with Equalizer BCDs from size XS to L.

The rocky reefs and canyons are home to a diverse array of Mediterranean life. You will regularly encounter Grouper (Epinephelus), Moray eel (Muraenidae), and Conger eel (Congridae) seeking shelter in the rocks. Sea bream (Sparidae) and various species of wrasse (Labridae) are also common sights along the walls.

For those interested in macro life, the crevices and sandy patches host octopus, nudibranchs, and scorpionfish. You may also spot lobster (Homaridae) and various species of sea urchins tucked into the coralligenous structures.

During certain times of the year, the area may also host Mola-mola, adding a significant highlight to the local pelagic sightings.

Divers should be aware that surface currents can be strong at certain sites, particularly at Petites Querolles, Roche Fouras, and Le Trafik. These currents can make entry and exit more challenging, especially at Petites Querolles.

While many sites offer sheltered environments, the topography of the region includes significant drop-offs and canyons that can influence local water movement. Planning your dive based on the specific site's characteristics is essential.