Tech Ocean

Located at the Port de Socoa in Ciboure, Tech Ocean has been a fixture of the Basque diving community for over four decades. Established in 1982, this family-run structure provides a professional base for those looking to explore the Atlantic waters of the French coast.

The centre operates with a dual focus, combining underwater exploration with a dedicated school for maritime navigation. This unique combination makes it a hub for both divers and those seeking professional nautical certifications in the region.

The team is composed of DEJEPS qualified instructors, ensuring a high standard of instruction for all levels of experience. This professional qualification underpins their approach to both recreational diving and more structured training programmes.

As a family-run business, the atmosphere is professional yet personal. The centre is affiliated with the ANMP, maintaining local standards for diving and instruction. All instruction and site communications are conducted in French.

The training programme covers the entire spectrum of diving, starting from discovery dives and introductory sessions through to all levels of formal certification. They cater to both beginners and more experienced divers looking to refine their skills.

Beyond diving, the centre is a specialised school for maritime navigation. They offer courses for the Coastal Boat Permit, the Ocean-going Boat Permit, and the Restricted Radio Telegraphist Certificate (CRR), including e-learning options for certain modules.

The centre operates two vessels to reach the various sites along the coast. For more agile access, they use the Narwhal, a 7.50m semi-rigid boat powered by a 200cv outboard motor.

For more stable trips, they also utilise a 6.80m Beneteau motorboat equipped with an 80cv inboard engine. These boats allow you to reach the offshore sites located well beyond the reef flat.

On-site facilities include a dedicated classroom, changing rooms, showers, and a relaxation area for divers between trips. The centre is well-equipped to handle the practicalities of a day on the water.

Full kit hire is available for those who do not wish to bring their own equipment, covering masks, snorkels, fins, wetsuits, regulators, BCDs, and dive computers. Cylinders and weights are provided as part of the service.

The marine life around the Basque coast is diverse, with many species inhabiting the various reefs and rocky bottoms. You can regularly encounter benthic fish, squat lobsters, and various species of crayfish.

For those interested in macro life, the area is home to several types of nudibranchs and various species of sea slugs. The rocky habitats also support a variety of galathea crabs and crayfish.

In the summer, the sites around Les Esquilletacs are particularly active, offering sightings of red algae and a variety of smaller invertebrates.

The diving sites are located offshore in the Basque country, meaning conditions can vary depending on Atlantic swells. Most of the primary sites are found at depths between 17 and 35 metres.