SAINT P’HYERES PLONGEE, Mickael YOUSSOUF

Saint P'hyeres Plongée is situated in the beautiful Hyères bay, a premier diving location that provides direct access to the Îles d'Or and a vast array of historical wreck sites. Since its establishment in 2010, the centre has focused on delivering professional service to both novice divers and experienced technical specialists.

The local underwater landscape is defined by a mix of deep wrecks and natural reefs, making it one of the most diverse diving areas in the region. Whether you are looking to complete your first certification or want to explore deep-water shipwrecks, the proximity to these sites offers a varied and rewarding diving experience.

The centre is led by Mickael Youssouf, a highly qualified professional with a diverse background in maritime operations. He holds several advanced qualifications, including PADI Master Instructor, SSI TecRec Instructor Trainer, and instructor ratings for Nitrox and Trimix. His experience as a merchant navy mechanic and captain adds a layer of professional maritime expertise to the operation.

The centre is affiliated with PADI, SSI, and FFESSM, allowing for a wide range of certification paths. While digital SSI training is the primary focus, French FFESSM certifications remain available as an option for those who prefer them.

The training programme is extensive, catering to every stage of a diver's development. Beginners can start with Try Scuba or the SSI Basic Diver and Scuba Diver courses, progressing through to the Open Water Diver certification. The centre also offers specialised skills training in buoyancy and orientation.

For those looking to advance, a full range of intermediate and advanced courses is available, including Deep Diver, Stress & Rescue, and the various levels of the French PA and PE systems. Technical training is a core strength, with courses covering Nitrox Elementaire, Extended Range Nitrox, and confirmed Nitrox levels. The centre also provides instruction for the ANMP Guide de palanquée.

The centre operates two semi-rigid boats, measuring 8.5m and 9m respectively. Each vessel has a capacity for 20 divers, ensuring there is plenty of space for groups. The boats are equipped with raised racks for easy handling and two large ladder systems to facilitate safe and efficient entries and exits.

Both boats are equipped to support advanced diving, with Nitrox available on board. The vessels provide reliable access to the various wrecks and reefs scattered throughout the Hyères marine area.

The shore-based facilities are designed for comfort and efficiency, featuring a heated changing room and three hot showers. There are dedicated rinsing tanks and clothing racks to help you organise your kit after a dive. A large free parking area is located directly in front of the centre.

For technical diving, the centre is well-equipped with a membrane Nitrox station and a booster capable of providing O2 and Helium fills at 200 bar. If you prefer to bring your own equipment, the centre offers various rental options for individual pieces of kit or full sets, including dive computers.

The wrecks and reefs of the area are home to a diverse range of Mediterranean life. You will frequently encounter large groupers, moray eels, and various species of conger eels sheltering in the crevices. Schools of sardines and mullet are common in the water column, while red anthias add colour to the structures.

In the rocky areas and near the wrecks, the scenery is defined by vibrant gorgonians and various sponges. You can also spot large lobsters and different species of wrasse and sea bass moving through the blue.

Macro life is present throughout the sites, with moray eels and various crustaceans often found tucked into the hulls of the wrecks or under ledges. Divers should keep a sharp eye out for these smaller inhabitants amongst the structures.

Divers should be prepared for varying conditions depending on the site. Some areas, such as the Donator, are known for strong Ligurian currents, while other sites like the Michel C or La Barge aux congres can experience significant currents at times.

The seabed can also drop away very quickly in certain locations, particularly around the Ville de Grasse and the Michel C, which is an important factor for depth management and buoyancy control.