In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationBouches-du-Rhône / Marseille
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AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions52.53 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
Spanish
In a few words
Ready to go beyond a simple introductory dive?
The PADI Open Water Diver certification is the most recognized scuba diving certification in the world. In just 3 days, learn the basics of scuba diving and earn your first level of independent diving certification.
Accompanied by our professional instructors, you will discover how the equipment works, essential safety rules, underwater communication techniques and the skills needed to move confidently in a marine environment.
The training alternates between theory, practical exercises, and sea dives, allowing you to progress at your own pace and quickly gain confidence. Through these dives, you will learn to control your buoyancy, manage your equipment, and explore the seabed safely.
Upon completion of the training, you will obtain the PADI Open Water certification, recognized worldwide, which will allow you to dive to a depth of 18 meters and explore the most beautiful dive sites on the planet.
A first step towards a new way of travelling and discovering the world.
The highlights
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PADI certification recognized worldwide
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Complete training in just 3 days
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Dive into the waters of Marseille
Photos
Sport
Level
Scuba diving
The expert's opinion
The PADI Open Water Diver course is structured around three complementary components: theory , practical exercises in confined water , and open water dives . Accessible immediately upon registration, the theory portion is completed online through an interactive program that will allow you to acquire essential knowledge about scuba diving, equipment use, and safety rules.
Our advice: complete this part before your trip. This will allow you to progress at your own pace, take the time to absorb the concepts covered, and fully enjoy the practical sessions once you arrive. Throughout the training, your instructor will be available to answer your questions and guide you towards obtaining your PADI Open Water certification.
In figures
Diving
- 2 average daily practices
Management
English
French
Spanish
Yolan Avran has been a PADI instructor and diving instructor for 9 years . Passionate about the underwater world, he brings his experience and positive attitude to your learning. His teaching approach, both professional and friendly, will allow you to progress in the best possible conditions, whatever your level.
Your training is led by certified or state-qualified instructors , who are also PADI instructors , recognized for their expertise and teaching skills. To guarantee high-quality learning , practical sessions take place in small groups, with a maximum of four students per instructor . This organization allows for personalized attention , a more comfortable learning environment, and optimal safety throughout your training.
Program
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First day: your Open Water training is underway!
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 2
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your underwater adventure begins! After a welcome and theory session at the dive center , you embark on the boat for a day full of discoveries.
The morning is dedicated to your first exercises in a protected environment , in calm conditions and at shallow depths. This is where you will experience your first underwater breathing . Accompanied by your instructor, you will progressively learn the basics of diving: underwater communication, equipment management, safety techniques, and movement . The exercises are designed to build your confidence and allow you to fully enjoy your future dives.
After this first dive, it's time for a friendly lunch break . Don't forget your picnic and a water bottle: a morning of diving will work up an appetite!
The afternoon marks the start of your open water dives. You'll discover authentic Mediterranean dive sites , with progressively deeper dives reaching up to 18 meters . You'll consolidate the skills learned in the morning while exploring the seabed and its marine life . A full first day, combining learning, new sensations, and wonder , to fully immerse yourself in the world of scuba diving.
Day 1 -
Open Water Dives and Certification
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 2
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The last two days of your training are dedicated to putting all the acquired skills into practice . The program includes two dives per day , with a return to shore between dives to enjoy a well-deserved break and discuss your progress with your instructor.
With each dive, you'll gain ease, independence, and confidence . The exercises will become more natural, leaving more room for exploration and observation of the magnificent Mediterranean seabed. It's an opportunity to put everything you've learned into practice while fully enjoying the pleasure of diving.
After three days of training, validation of your practical skills and theoretical knowledge, the long-awaited moment will arrive: the presentation of your PADI Open Water certification . This international qualification will allow you to dive to a depth of 18 meters , anywhere in the world, with a buddy.
A significant milestone that marks the beginning of many underwater adventures. Welcome to the big family of divers!
Days 2 to 3
Note
The program is provided for informational purposes only and may be modified without prior notice depending on weather conditions , sea state, or any other event beyond our control. These adjustments are made to ensure the best possible safety and comfort for all participants.
Accommodation
Your accommodation is included for 2 nights and is located less than 500 meters from the beach , with access to the coves in less than 10 minutes . Ideally situated, it allows you to fully enjoy your stay between relaxation and water sports.
The center has many facilities for your comfort: a 50-seat dining room , a 40-seat outdoor terrace , a 400 m² courtyard and a jacuzzi , perfect for relaxing after a day of diving.
Access
Located in the Port of Pointe Rouge in Marseille , the diving center benefits from direct access to the sea and the most beautiful dive sites in the Mediterranean. Easily accessible, it is the ideal starting point for exploring the seabed of the Calanques National Park and the islands off Marseille.
Go to the starting point
Marseille Saint-Charles train station is Marseille's main railway station. Served by TGV, TER, and Intercités trains, it provides easy access to the city from all over France. From the station, it takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes by car or public transport to reach the Port de la Pointe Rouge. Metro and bus lines also provide easy access to the diving center.
The Port of Pointe Rouge is easily accessible by car from Marseille city centre and major roads. Free and paid parking options are available near the dive centre, making your arrival and departure convenient.
Price details
The price includes
The price includes:
- Accommodation in a single room for 2 nights
- Breakfasts
- 6 supervised technical dives
- Complete diving equipment
- The PADI e-learning educational kit
- PADI Open Water certification
- The diving logbook
- Supervision by a qualified PADI instructor
- The boat trips planned as part of the training
Everything is included to allow you to experience your training in the best conditions and obtain your certification with complete peace of mind.
The price does not include
The price does not include:
- Transportation to Marseille and personal travel
- Lunches and dinners during the stay
- Personal expenses
- Optional insurance (cancellation, assistance, etc.)
- Any service not mentioned in the "Price includes" section
We recommend that you budget for your meals as well as any personal expenses you may incur during your stay.
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before you leave, make sure you have a valid form of identification . It is your responsibility to check any administrative, health, or customs requirements applicable to your destination.
Official information regarding entry and stay requirements can be found on the France Diplomatie website. If your trip includes stopovers, remember to also check the entry requirements in the transit countries.
⚠️ To participate in this training, a medical certificate stating that there are no contraindications to scuba diving is mandatory. This must be presented on your first day of training.
ℹ️ Regulations may change, so we recommend that you regularly check official websites before your departure to have the most up-to-date information.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
All the equipment necessary for your training is provided:
- Diving cylinder
- Regulator
- Buoyancy compensator (BCD)
- Diving suit
- Mask
- Flippers
- Flooring system
The equipment is regularly checked and maintained to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the training.
Equipment to bring
No diving equipment is necessary: all diving equipment is provided as part of your training.
Clothing to bring
For boat trips, simply bring the essentials: sunscreen , sunglasses, a swimsuit , and a towel . Since the trips are relatively short, your wetsuit will effectively protect you from the cold and sun during the activities.
However, it is recommended to bring a change of clothes for added comfort between dives. A light sweatshirt or windbreaker can also be useful during lunch breaks or if the wind picks up at sea.
For your stay in Marseille, choose clothing suitable for the generally mild and sunny weather. However, the mistral wind can sometimes blow: a light jacket and a scarf or neck warmer will then prove very useful to fully enjoy your stay.
They traveled with us
The Marie team
For over 25 years, we have been exploring, imagining, and operating trips to the heart of the world's most beautiful destinations, both underwater and on land. It all began with a passion for the ocean… which has now become a true expertise in creating and organizing seamless and perfectly executed travel experiences. We don't just design trips—we operate them from start to finish. From the initial idea to our clients' return, we are there every step of the way to guarantee a flawless, safe, and worry-free journey. Diving and snorkeling are at the core of our DNA. We know the sites, the seasons, the hidden treasures—and above all, we love to share them. At the same time, we remain deeply committed to responsible tourism, with constant attention to our environmental impact. But beyond the destinations, our priority remains the same: our clients. Availability, attentiveness, and attention to detail—we always go the extra mile to offer much more than just a trip. Because true luxury is a perfectly executed journey.