Blue Addiction

Situated in La Londe-les-Maures, Blue Addiction sits at the doorstep of the Port-Cros National Park and the Îles d'Or. This prime location provides immediate access to some of the most protected and biodiverse marine environments in France, including the reefs of Porquerolles and the depths of the Mediterranean islands.

Since 2011, the centre has established itself as a specialist hub for apnea, catering to a spectrum of divers from those taking their first breath-hold to professional instructors. Whether you are looking for technical compensation workshops or structured training sessions, the school is designed around the specific needs of the freediver.

The pedagogical team is led by highly qualified professionals, including Claire Swoboda, an FFESSM Regional Apnea Instructor and the first instructor in France specialised in Moving Limits compensation. The team also features Christian Maldame, a former World Champion and coach for the Blue Addiction Pro Team, and Sébastien Léon, an FFESSM National Apnea Instructor.

Instruction is delivered in both French and English, ensuring a smooth experience for international divers. The school is officially affiliated with both the FFESSM and AIDA International, providing a structured and recognised pathway for all certification levels.

Beyond standard courses, the centre offers high-level technical coaching, including masterclasses on compensation and deep training with Federico Mana. This emphasis on technical precision and safety is a core part of their identity as a specialist apnea school.

The curriculum is split between the FFESSM and AIDA systems, covering a vast range of expertise. For those starting out, the centre offers AIDA 1 and FFESSM introductory courses, progressing through AIDA 2, 3, and 4, as well as FFESSM Apnéiste Eau Libre (AEL), Apnéiste Confirmé (ACEL), and Apnéiste Expert (AEEL).

Advanced divers can access specialised Molchanovs training, including Wave 1, 2, and 3 (Master Freediving). The centre also provides professional training for those looking to enter the industry, such as the FFESSM Initiateur Entraîneur and MEF1 courses.

Technical skill development is a major focus, with specific workshops available for compensation techniques, yoga for apnea, and deep training. There are also unique opportunities for verticality and exploration training in Dahab.

The centre operates the Galiléo, an 8.50m Zodiac Pro semi-rigid designed specifically for the requirements of freediving. Powered by a 300hp outboard motor, the vessel can accommodate up to 20 people for excursions.

The boat is purpose-built for apnea, equipped with four outriggers, a sounding device, and a dedicated rack for monofins and bifins. It also carries a full oxygen therapy kit for safety and a 'gueuse' for surface support. During trips, hot drinks are provided on board, and divers are encouraged to bring snacks for the breaks between sessions.

The shore-based facilities at Plage Tamaris include a reception area, a dedicated classroom for theory and video debriefs, and changing rooms. For larger groups, a larger classroom is available at the partner accommodation, Odel’Evasion.

Full kit hire is available, and for those requiring personalised assistance, a supplement covers the loan of equipment including wetsuits. The centre also provides access to free parking located within 20 metres of the school.

The marine life around the Îles d'Or is defined by the healthy ecosystems of the national park. In the deeper sections and around the wrecks, you will regularly encounter large groupers stationed near the structures.

The rocky reefs and seagrass meadows are home to a variety of Mediterranean species. The area is particularly noted for its biodiversity, providing a rich backdrop for both freedivers and scuba divers.

Macro life enthusiasts can look for various crustaceans and smaller inhabitants among the crevices of the reefs and the debris of the wrecks. The healthy state of the Port-Cros area ensures a consistent presence of local marine fauna throughout the season.

The centre operates year-round, with specific schedules tailored to the seasons. During the summer months, from June to September, the centre offers 'After Work' sessions on Thursday evenings and twilight dives at 18:00.

Weekend programmes are often condensed, featuring an early morning technical session followed by an exploration of the National Park or local wrecks. In the late autumn, the weekend start times shift slightly to accommodate the changing light and weather patterns.