Along the Côte Vermeille, exploring the coralligenous reefs and gorgonians remains a safe activity, provided a few principles are respected. Here are ten common-sense habits, valid from your first taster dive to advanced diving, here as anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
Before you set off
- Check your equipment: regulator, pressure gauge, BCD, weights.
- Check the weather and the state of the sea; call it off if in doubt.
- Dive within your limits: qualification, physical fitness, depth.
- Brief with your buddy: route, signals, exit point.
Underwater
- Never dive alone: stay in visual contact with your buddy.
- Monitor your air regularly and signal well before you reach your reserve.
- Ascend slowly and observe your decompression stops.
- Master your buoyancy: never touch the bottom or any organisms.
Once you’re back
- Respect the surface interval between two dives.
- Stay alert to signs of fatigue in the hours that follow.
The clubs present at the MERveille festival village (on 23, 24 and 25 April 2027, in Banyuls-sur-Mer) go over these habits at every taster dive: brushing up on them before the festival means arriving ready to enjoy the seabed of the Côte Vermeille with confidence.
These tips are no substitute for proper training: always dive with a club or a qualified instructor (FFESSM, PADI or equivalent).