Io Plongee

IØ Plongée is situated in the Port de la Côtinière on the Île d'Oléron. For three decades, the centre has been a fixture of the local diving community, providing access to the unique marine environments of the surrounding waters.

The centre is deeply integrated into the local ecosystem, participating in scientific projects within the Parc naturel marin de l'estuaire de la Gironde et de la mer des Pertuis. As an affiliate of Longitude 181, they maintain a strong commitment to responsible diving practices and environmental respect.

The centre provides instruction and guidance for all ages and experience levels. Their approach is centred on personalised accompaniment, whether you are undertaking your first discovery dive or progressing through advanced certifications.

Instruction is delivered in French. The team covers a broad spectrum of diving, from introductory sessions to specialised technical training, ensuring that every diver can progress at their own pace within a safe and professional environment.

The training programme is comprehensive, catering to every stage of a diver's development. Beginners can start with Niveau 1 or PE12 courses, with subsequent progression through Niveau 2 and Niveau 3 certifications.

For more experienced divers, the centre offers advanced training including PA20, PA40, and technical diving courses. They also provide specialised diving for rehabilitation.

Full kit hire is available for those who do not wish to bring their own equipment. This includes wetsuits, masks, fins, BCDs, and regulators.

Individual components such as masks, fins, or wetsuits can be rented separately if you only require specific items to complete your rig.

The rocky habitats around Oléron are rich with fixed life. You will find various gorgonians, including verrucose gorgonians and sea fans, alongside anemones such as jewel anemones, daisy anemones, and eye anemones. The reefs are also home to sea roses and various species of sponges.

The local fish populations are diverse, with sightings of John Dory, conger eels, and various species of croakers and whiting. You may also encounter larger species such as dusky rays or different types of sea bream.

Macro life and crustaceans add significant interest to the dives. Keep an eye out for lobsters, nudibranchs, and various anemones tucked into the crevices. The area's significant plankton richness also supports a complex food web that keeps the local biodiversity thriving.

Diving conditions in the area are influenced by the tides, which dictate the currents experienced during a dive. The local waters are also characterised by significant plankton richness due to the nature of the Pertuis.