Hemisphere Sub

Located in the heart of French Polynesia, Hemisphere Sub serves the islands of Raiatea and Tahaa. Positioned between Bora Bora and Huahine, this area remains largely preserved from mass tourism, offering a more authentic experience of the South Pacific lagon and surrounding reefs.

The centre operates from the Apooiti marina, providing access to a vast array of underwater environments. You will find everything from shallow reef flats and sheltered lagoons to deep passes and historical wrecks, making it a versatile base for both recreational divers and those seeking more challenging environments.

The team is composed of 5 professional instructors who have been diving in these waters daily since 2003. Their long-standing presence in the region ensures a deep understanding of the local currents and site-specific conditions.

As an affiliate of PADI, CMAS, SSI, and FFESSM, the centre provides a high standard of training and safety. The instructors are committed to professional development, regularly attending first aid technique updates to ensure they are prepared for any situation.

Beyond standard diving, the centre is equipped to handle younger divers with programmes starting from age 4. They also offer specialised services such as private guided dives for small groups and seasonal whale watching excursions.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training through PADI and CMAS affiliations. Beginners can start with PADI Open Water Diver or CMAS Niveau 1, progressing through to advanced levels such as PADI Advanced Open Water and CMAS Niveau 4.

For divers looking to specialise, various courses are available, including PADI Rescue Diver, EFR, and Nitrox certification. They also provide training for more technical skills and specific underwater exploration programmes like the PE series (PE12, PE20, PE40, PE60) and PA series (PA20, PA40, PA60).

The centre operates two aluminium boats, designed to navigate the local waters efficiently. One vessel is configured for a maximum of 6 divers, while the other can accommodate up to 10.

The boats are powered by 250 CV 4-stroke Yamaha engines, ensuring reliable performance during trips to the various passes and outer reefs. Nitrox is available on board for those looking to extend their bottom time.

The shore-based facilities at the Apooiti marina include a lounge area where you can relax, use the drink dispenser, or review your underwater photos and videos. The centre also provides showers and toilets for divers to freshen up after their sessions.

For those not bringing their own kit, full equipment hire is available, including BCDs, regulators, cylinders, and weight belts. The centre is an Aqualung partner, and they maintain a high standard of kit, with equipment being renewed every 2 years to meet international safety standards.

The marine life around Raiatea and Tahaa is exceptionally diverse. In the passes and along the walls, you will regularly encounter Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), various species of sharks including Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), and Grey reef shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), as well as lemon sharks and grey sharks. Large pelagics such as Tuna (Thunnus), swordfish, and various rays (Batoidea) are also common visitors to the deeper sections.

In the shallower reef areas and lagoons, the environment is teeming with Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), jacks (Carangidae), and various species of grouper. You will often see barracudas, including the Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), and colourful angelfish (Pomacanthidae) amongst the coral structures.

The reef itself is a vibrant habitat, featuring black corals, spiny oysters, and various encrusting sponges. Manta ray (Mobula alfredi) and leopard rays are frequently sighted in the clearer waters of the passes.

Macro life is also present for the observant diver, with various species of Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) and shrimp (Caridea) to be found on the reef. The Nordby wreck specifically offers a rich environment for nudibranchs, stonefish (Synanceia), and various species of anemones.

From September to the beginning of December, the area offers the opportunity to see Humpback whales during their seasonal migration.

Diving in this region involves a variety of environments, from calm lagoon dives to more active drift dives in the passes. The passes, such as Teavapiti and Ceran, are known for their rich biological activity but can involve significant water movement.

Visibility in the area is excellent, reaching up to 50 metres at certain sites like Tao-tao. The centre provides access to both sheltered reef flats and more exposed outer sites, allowing for a range of diving experiences depending on the daily conditions.