Discover Scuba Diving

The PADI Discover Scuba Diving programme at Aqualonde runs in two stages: a pool session first, then an open-water dive in the Mediterranean. The pool at the new premises on Boulevard Louis Bernard is heated to a minimum of 25°C and measures 7×5 m — sheltered from wind and swell, which makes the first contact with the regulator and buoyancy control much calmer than going straight to sea.

Once the pool skills are signed off, the open-water dive takes place in the Îles d'Or area, the same sites used for the standard baptêmes. The difference from the basic intro dive is that the DSD follows the official PADI programme and results in a PADI registration — a documented first step that counts toward Open Water if the participant decides to continue.

Aqualonde is set up to take that next step immediately. The full Open Water course is on offer at the same base, and the PADI instructor pool (including training up to PADI Instructor level) means there's continuity in who teaches you. The heated pool and classroom are also used for the theory and confined-water components of the full Open Water, so the DSD is genuinely integrated into the progression rather than being a standalone product.

This format suits divers who want a structured introduction with some official recognition rather than just a souvenir diploma.