CIP Marseille

Located at the Port de la Pointe Rouge, CIP Marseille sits at the very edge of the Parc National des Calanques. As the oldest dive centre in Marseille, it has been a fixture of the local diving community since 1979, originally founded as IMMADRAS.

The centre is perfectly positioned for those looking to explore the varied Mediterranean coastline, offering access to over fifty distinct dive sites. These range from shallow reef flats to deep walls, historical wrecks, and complex cave systems.

Whether you are looking for a relaxed day of recreational diving or are pursuing advanced technical certifications, the centre focuses on a personalised approach. Its deep-rooted history in the area is backed by professional expertise in underwater works, including the long-term security of the famous Cosquer cave.

The team at CIP Marseille brings decades of experience to the water, maintaining a focus on safety and technical precision. The centre is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in rebreather diving and technical gases.

Training is tailored to the individual, ensuring that whether you are a novice or a seasoned technical diver, the instruction matches your specific goals. The centre also maintains a strong presence in the freediving community, offering specialised training for breath-hold divers.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training, from introductory courses to highly advanced technical certifications. You can work through standard progression levels or specialise in freediving.

For technical divers, the centre is a specialist hub for rebreather training. They offer AP Diving courses including Air Diluent AP, Normoxic Trimix rebreather diving, and specific rebreather initiation and discovery sessions. They also provide training for Level 4 divers.

The shore-based facilities are designed for convenience, with direct access to the quay and a dedicated rinsing area for your kit immediately upon returning from the boats.

For technical divers, the centre is fully equipped to support rebreather operations. They provide specialised training and support for AP Diving systems, including air diluent and normoxic trimix configurations.

The marine life in the Calanques is remarkably diverse, with many sites featuring dramatic gorgonian sea fans and red coral. You will often find large schools of fish, including common dentex (Dentex dentex), sea bream (Sparidae), and salema porgy (Sarpa salpa) moving through the water column.

Predators such as dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus), brown meagre, and great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) are frequently seen patrolling the walls and wrecks. You may also encounter moray eels (Muraenidae) and various species of wrasses and damselfish (Pomacentridae) amongst the rocky structures.

For macro enthusiasts, the crevices and sponges host a wealth of smaller life. Look for various nudibranchs, including Chromodoris willani, alongside octopus (Octopus vulgaris), spiny lobster (Palinuridae), and various species of shrimp and crabs. Scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) often remain well-hidden among the reef architecture.

The diving is conducted throughout the year, with the programme expanding and diversifying during the summer months. The proximity to the National Park ensures a high standard of site preservation.