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Adventure · Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Cannes

Scuba Diving Around the Lérins Islands

  • Difficultymoderate
  • DistanceDive sites 1-3 km offshore
  • Best seasonMay-October
  • PriceIntroductory dive about EUR 70-110 (~$80-126)
  • OperatorLocal FFESSM-affiliated dive centres

The waters around the Lérins Islands offer dives on rocky walls, canyons, Posidonia meadows and shipwrecks at depths from 5 to 40 m, with water at 13-15 C in winter and 22-25 C in summer. Dive centres in Cannes and Mandelieu run introductory dives for beginners and guided dives for certified divers, with boat departures from the Vieux Port and Port Canto. The introductory dive in a protected area reaches 6 m after a land briefing and a medical declaration.

The waters around the Lérins Islands offer dives on rocky walls, canyons, Posidonia meadows and shipwrecks at depths from 5 to 40 m, with water at 13-15 C in winter and 22-25 C in summer. Dive centres in Cannes and Mandelieu run introductory dives for beginners and guided dives for certified divers, with boat departures from the Vieux Port and Port Canto. The introductory dive in a protected area reaches 6 m after a land briefing and a medical declaration. Visibility is often 15-25 m in summer. Divers must follow the marine reserve rules around the islands, which limit anchoring and fishing.

Practical information for Scuba Diving Around the Lérins Islands · Last updated September 2026
Price Introductory dive about EUR 70-110 (~$80-126)
Duration Half day
Difficulty moderate
Season May-October
Age limit From about 8 for introductory dives
Address Vieux Port, 06400 Cannes, France

Activity facts

Where
Lérins Islands and Cannes bay
Skill level
Beginner to advanced

Equipment

Equipment is supplied by the dive centre; bring swimwear, towel and medical certificate

Location

Vieux Port, 06400 Cannes, France

43.5130, 7.0450 View on map

Highlights

  • Rocky walls and seagrass meadows
  • Shipwreck and archaeological sites
  • Introductory dives for beginners
  • Good summer visibility

Tips for visiting

  • Have a medical certificate or declaration ready
  • Do not fly within 24 hours of a dive
  • Choose a dive centre affiliated with a recognised federation such as FFESSM

When to visit

May to October for warmer water.

Accessibility

Adapted diving programmes exist at some centres; ask in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a certificate?

Not for an introductory dive; certified divers need to show their licence.

What does a dive cost?

An introductory dive costs about EUR 70-110 (~$80-126); guided dives for certified divers cost less per dive.