S'Algar Diving

Situated in the bay of S'Algar on the southeast coast of Menorca, S'Algar Diving has been a fixture of the local diving community since 1986. The centre is positioned directly on the water within the Isla del Aire Marine Reserve, providing immediate access to some of the most diverse underwater topography in the Balearic Islands.

The location is ideal for both shore-based entries and boat departures, with the pier just a few steps from the centre. Most dive sites are reached within 10 to 20 minutes, allowing for maximum time spent underwater exploring the reefs, caves, and wrecks that define this protected area.

As a PADI 5-Star centre with additional affiliations to BSAC and TDI, the team focuses on high safety standards and tailored diving experiences. The staff is multilingual, capable of conducting business and instruction in Spanish, Catalan, English, Italian, French, German, and Czech.

The centre is well-equipped to handle a wide range of divers, from those completing their first Try-Dive to technical divers training on rebreathers. With over three decades of operational history, the team brings deep local knowledge to every trip, ensuring that whether you are navigating a cavern or a drift dive, you are in experienced hands.

The training programme is extensive, covering the full spectrum of recreational and technical diving. Beginners can start with Try-Dive or PADI Open Water Diver courses, progressing through Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster levels.

For those looking to specialise, the centre offers PADI Specialty courses including Deep Diver and Wreck Diver. Technical training is also a core component, with TDI courses and full technical diving programmes available, including rebreather training.

The centre operates two main vessels to suit different diving styles. The 'While You're Down There' is a rigid boat designed for comfort and accessibility, capable of carrying up to 10 divers. It is an ideal platform for those looking for a stable base for reef exploration.

For more rapid excursions, the centre uses 'Boris', a 7.5m semi-rigid boat. For those looking for extended experiences, the 'MY Galaxy 720' serves as a liveaboard vessel. This larger boat is powered by twin 1200HP MTU engines and can accommodate up to 24 people, offering a way to reach more remote locations and enjoy a full diving programme.

The shore-based facilities include a training pool and classrooms for theoretical instruction. For those not bringing their own kit, a full range of Scubapro equipment is available for hire. The centre also provides various cylinder sizes, including 7L, 10L, 12L, 15L, and 18L, with both DIN and INT valve options available.

Air quality is managed by a Gardner Denver V34H-AL (Mk2) compressor. The centre is fully equipped for advanced diving, providing Nitrox and Trimix support for technical divers and those looking to extend their bottom times.

The marine life in the Isla del Aire Marine Reserve is prolific. On the reefs and rocky outcrops, you will find large groups of Mediterranean barracuda patrolling the waters, alongside groupers, amberjack, and various species of wrasse. The rocky walls and crevices are home to many moray eels, conger eels, and scorpionfish.

Macro life is abundant for those who observe closely. The seabed and rock faces host a variety of octopuses, cuttlefish, and nudibranchs, as well as crabs and other crustaceans. You can also find many species of sea urchins and anemones clinging to the reef structure.

The hard and soft scenery is equally impressive, with the area featuring extensive growths of soft corals, sponges, and various types of gorgonians. Large fan mussels can reach up to 90cm in height, adding significant texture to the underwater landscape.

The area is known for its relatively stable conditions, with strong currents being infrequent. Most sites are easily accessible, with some being just a three-minute boat ride from the centre.

While the topography includes many caves, chimneys, and tunnels, the water remains accessible for a wide range of diver levels, provided the appropriate certifications are held for specific cavern or wreck sites.