Formation Niveau 1

The Niveau 1 at Club Subaquatique des Vénètes runs across a full season — registration in September, pool work from October through spring, four sea validation dives in April and May. The club is explicit about this: it is not a one-weekend course. Training in the Atlantic, even in the sheltered Golfe du Morbihan, demands solid technique before anyone enters the sea, and the multi-month structure reflects that.

Pool sessions take place primarily at Piscine Kercado in Vannes, in groups capped at four to six divers per instructor. The curriculum follows the FFESSM N1 skill set: equipment assembly and configuration, regulator breathing, mask clearing, controlled ascents, underwater communication signs and basic stabilisation. Everything is rehearsed in the pool until it becomes automatic.

The four sea dives are conducted from the club's boat, the Fleur de corail, in the Golfe du Morbihan. These are the practical validation for what was learned in the pool — real currents, real cold water, real kit. Depth ceiling for N1 holders is 20 m, always under the supervision of a qualified encadrant. The Golfe offers varied terrain close to Vannes, and these dives typically take place on the same sites the club uses for regular outings.

Minimum age is 14. A medical certificate less than one year old confirming no contraindication is required; minors need parental authorisation as well. All instructors are bénévoles with FFESSM qualifications. Membership and payment are handled via HelloAsso; complementary insurance is available through Cabinet Lafont for FFESSM licence holders.

Once certified, N1 holders can join the full range of club outings to the Golfe du Morbihan, Ria d'Etel, Île de Houat and Groix. A ratio rule applies on outings — a maximum of two N1 divers per already-registered encadrant — so booking early via the online system is worth it during peak season.