Club Sous l Eau, SARL MARE SCHOLA

Club Sous l'Eau is situated in the bustling Port Santa Lucia in Saint-Raphaël, offering direct access to the diverse marine environments of the French Riviera. The centre operates as a dual-affiliation hub, providing both FFESSM and SSI certifications, which allows for a flexible approach to training and recreational diving.

Whether you are looking to start your journey with a discovery dive or you are a technical diver requiring Trimix or rebreather support, the facility is designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of expertise. The location is easily accessible via car, bus, or on foot from the seafront, with shuttle services available from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.

The professional team at the centre manages everything from children's programmes to high-level instructor training. They are equipped to handle a variety of diver profiles, including those seeking specialized first aid and safety training such as RIFAP and various emergency response certifications.

The centre also serves as a training ground for future professionals, offering courses for instructors and divemasters. Their expertise extends into the technical realm, supporting divers through the complexities of advanced gas blending and rebreather operations.

The training catalogue is extensive, covering the full breadth of the FFESSM and SSI systems. Beginners can start with Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver courses, while more experienced divers can progress through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster levels.

For those looking to specialise, the centre offers Nitrox and Advanced Nitrox certifications, as well as drysuit training. The technical curriculum is particularly robust, providing pathways for Initial Tek and various advanced certifications to support deep and complex diving profiles.

The shore-based facilities include a high-performance gas blending station capable of providing Air, Nitrox, and Trimix. This makes the centre a reliable base for technical divers who require precise gas mixes for deeper excursions.

For those who prefer not to carry their own heavy kit, a full range of rental equipment is available, including regulators, wetsuits, BCDs, and masks. The centre also features a specialized shop with after-sales service and maintenance for Aqualung and Apeks equipment, ensuring your gear is in top condition.

The Mediterranean habitats around Saint-Raphaël are rich with fixed life, particularly along the walls and rocky outcrops. You will find an abundance of gorgonians, sea fans, and various corals that provide structure for the local ecosystem.

Macro life is a significant draw for those with an eye for detail. The crevices and reef flats are home to various nudibranchs and galathea lobsters, while octopus and other crustaceans inhabit the rocky shelters.

In the more open areas and around the reefs, the presence of larger species like sea fans and various corals creates a vibrant backdrop for observing the local marine life.