Argeles Plongee

Argelès Plongée is situated at the port of Argelès-sur-Mer, serving as a gateway to the diverse underwater landscapes of the Côte Vermeille. The centre's operations focus on the marine protected areas of the Golfe du Lion and the nearby Cerbère-Banyuls marine reserve, offering a range of environments from reef flats to deeper explorations.

Whether you are looking to take your first breaths underwater or progressing through advanced certifications, the centre provides the infrastructure to support your training and exploration. The proximity to these protected reserves ensures a consistent variety of marine life and habitats for every dive.

The team is led by Jean-Phi and Ylann, who manage the day-to-day operations and dive instruction. They focus on a personalised approach, ensuring that divers of all experience levels are supported throughout their training or exploration dives.

Instructional offerings are comprehensive, covering everything from initial entry-level courses to the Niveau 4 Guide de palanquée. For those looking to refine their skills, the centre also provides refresher packs and specialised training in emotion management to help divers build confidence and composure underwater.

The training programme follows a structured progression, beginning with Niveau 1 for beginners. As you advance, the centre offers Niveau 2 and Niveau 3 courses, as well as the Niveau 4 Guide de palanquée for those pursuing a professional path.

Beyond standard progression, the centre offers a Pack remise à niveau for divers returning to the water after a break. They also provide a specific Stage gestion des émotions to assist divers in managing their psychological response to the underwater environment. Apnée training is also available on site. A medical certificate of non-contraindication to diving, dated within the last year, is required for all training.

The Mistrale is a 12-metre aluminium barge designed for comfort and capacity, able to carry up to 39 divers. Powered by twin 200CV engines, the vessel is well-equipped for navigating the waters of the Golfe du Lion.

On board, you will find a large deck area with a solar protection canopy (taud de protection solaire) and a dedicated rinsing tank for your kit. The boat is also fitted with toilets and a non-slip floor covering, providing a practical and organised environment for preparing for and returning from dives. Nitrox is available for use during trips.

The centre provides full equipment hire for divers who do not wish to carry their own kit. This includes wetsuits, masks, fins, and cylinder equipment. For those starting their Niveau 1 training, the necessary kit is included in the course.

Shore-based facilities include areas for rinsing equipment and preparing for departures. The centre is positioned to facilitate easy transitions from the port to the boat.

The marine life in the Golfe du Lion and the Cerbère-Banyuls reserve is diverse, supported by the protection of these marine parks. You can expect to encounter various species across the different habitats, from rocky reefs to seagrass meadows.

In the water, you may see species such as conger eel (Congridae), octopuses, and various types of pout. The area is also a place to look for Anthias (Anthias) and the occasional Ocean sunfish (Mola mola).

Macro life and smaller inhabitants add significant detail to the dives, including flabellina and various sea pens. The presence of purple sea fan and other gorgonians provides a colourful backdrop to the rocky sections of the coastline.