Wrecks Marseille diving

Why Visit Shipwrecks for Scuba Diving in Marseille?

Diving to the underwater shipwrecks of Marseille is a unique adventure that attracts divers for multiple reasons. Firstly, these wrecks are silent witnesses to history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the maritime past of the region. Each descent allows exploration of sunken ships and airplanes, each with its own story, from human dramas to mysterious cargoes. Moreover, these wrecks create artificial reefs, becoming sanctuaries for marine life. The diversity and beauty of the fauna and flora that have colonized them are spectacular, offering stunning underwater landscapes. Visiting these sites not only provides an exceptional diving experience but also contributes to the preservation of these marine habitats by raising awareness of their ecological and historical importance.

The 10 Must-Visit Shipwrecks in Marseille

Marseille, with its rich maritime history and diverse seabeds, is a paradise for divers seeking historic wrecks. The Marseille harbor and its surroundings are full of fascinating wrecks, offering divers unique underwater adventures. Here is an overview of the 10 must-visit wrecks:

• Le Chaouen : This Moroccan cargo ship, sunk due to a navigation error in 1970, lies near the Planier Island. With its 90m length, it rests at a depth of 34m and offers a fascinating exploration for level 3 divers. Its visit allows admiration of an impressive structure, colonized by diverse marine fauna, offering a discovery-rich experience.
• Le Liban : A steamship sunk in 1903 after a collision, the Liban is famous for its tragic history. 91m long, it rests at a depth of 36m and is accessible from level 3. Divers explore its remnants while observing the marine life that has taken over its structures, creating a unique ecosystem.
• Le Dalton : A cargo ship sunk in 1928 due to a navigation error, the Dalton is scattered on the seabed, allowing exploration of the different aspects of a dislocated wreck and the marine life it harbors. It is accessible from level 3, resting at 33m depth and measuring 70m long.
• Le Saint Dominique : This ship, caught in a storm during towing in 1943, provides insight into the vulnerability of boats to natural elements. Measuring 70m long and resting at a depth of 33m, this boat is accessible from level 3. Its structure serves as a habitat for a variety of marine species, enriching the diving experience.
• Le Messerschmitt : The wreckage of this German fighter plane, which ended up in Marseille's waters after a failed landing in 1942, is an exceptional site for divers. Accessible to level 3 certified nitrox divers, it lies at a depth of 43m. It offers a rare opportunity to explore a piece of World War II history underwater.
• Le Miquelon : Sunk in 1917 after a collision, this ship bears witness to the dangers of navigation in the early 20th century. The Miquelon lies at a depth of 51m, with its 49m length, offering deep exploration for level 3 certified nitrox divers. The wreck's structure has integrated into the marine ecosystem, attracting divers and biodiversity.
• Le Ker Bihan : This ship, struck by a mine in 1918, tells the story of the many dangers ships faced during world conflicts. This 30m long ship lies at a depth of 57m. This site is reserved for level 3 certified nitrox divers. The remains of the Ker Bihan are now a bustling underwater habitat.
• La Barge au Congre : A submerged structure since 1968, offers a unique perspective on modern wrecks. It lies at a depth of 60m and is 12m long, providing advanced diving for those who have reached level 3 certified nitrox. Marine life has made the wreck its home, transforming it into a lively artificial reef.
• Le Junker 88 : Remains of a World War II bomber, the wreck of the Junker 88 is a historical dive allowing a direct connection with the aerial events of the conflict. It lies at a depth of 54m. With a length of 17m, it is a dive for history enthusiasts with a level 3 certified nitrox.
• La Drôme : A ship sunk by a mine in 1918, illustrates the impact of wars on merchant shipping. It measures 69m long and lies at a maximum depth of 53m, requiring a level 3 certified nitrox dive. The wreck is a sanctuary for marine species, testifying to nature's ability to reclaim sites touched by human history.

Why Are There So Many Shipwrecks of Boats and Planes in Marseille ?

The concentration of shipwrecks around Marseille can be explained by its strategic and tumultuous maritime history. As a major port in the Mediterranean, Marseille has been the scene of numerous historical events, from intense commercial exchanges to military conflicts, including both World Wars. These activities inevitably led to accidents, collisions, and shipwrecks. Additionally, the region was a strategic point during conflicts, resulting in the loss of military aircraft and ships. Thus, the seabed off Marseille has become a veritable underwater museum, bearing witness to the historical, commercial, and military evolution of this Mediterranean area.

What Marine Flora Can Be Observed When Diving in Marseille ?

Diving in Marseille offers a privileged window into marine flora of exceptional richness, characteristic of Mediterranean biodiversity. Among the stars of this underwater flora, Posidonia occupies a prominent place. This endemic plant creates true underwater forests that play a crucial role in water oxygenation and serve as habitat for numerous species. The seabeds are also home to a colorful spectacle offered by a variety of algae and aquatic plants. Calcified algae, with their astonishing forms, peacock's tail padina, or strict Cystoseira enrich the underwater landscape. These ecosystems are essential for coastal protection and the preservation of marine species, thus contributing to the beauty and diversity of diving sites around Marseille.

How to Properly Prepare for Scuba Diving ?

To properly prepare for scuba diving, several key steps are essential. First, ensure your diving certification is up to date and appropriate for the type of dive planned. Check your diving equipment: cylinder, regulator, buoyancy control device, wetsuit, mask, fins, and dive computer should be in perfect condition and suitable for the water temperature. Familiarize yourself with the dive site: depth, currents, peculiarities, and potential dangers. Plan your dive according to your level and that of your buddy, clearly defining the objectives and limits of the dive. Proper hydration and adequate physical condition are also important. Finally, never neglect the pre-dive safety briefing with your guide or instructor, essential to review signals, the dive plan, and ensure a safe and enjoyable underwater experience.