Advanced Mermaid PADI niveau 3

Level 3 is the top tier of the PADI mermaid programme, and Jean-Luc Casares is one of the few instructors in France holding the PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer rating — meaning he can validate both the certification and the instructor pathway. At this level the technical and artistic components of mermaiding are developed together: breath control tied to apnea technique, monofin performance, figure work and safety protocols specific to mermaid diving. Sessions take place in the sea around the Presqu'île de Giens, where the protected coves and clear Mediterranean water provide good conditions for this kind of work.

The school has been running mermaid training since 2015, making it one of the earliest structured programmes of this kind in the world. Students who have trained here include the 2017 Miss Mermaid France (Marie Potosniak, known as Galathée la Sirène) and the 1st runner-up at Miss Mermaid International 2017. That context matters: the techniques taught at niveau 3 are the same ones used by professionals performing at aquariums and events. Marie Potosniak is active within the school and participates in mermaid sessions.

Reaching niveau 3 requires prior completion of the PADI Mermaid and Advanced Mermaid prerequisites. The programme at Hyères combines pool work and open-water sessions at the Presqu'île de Giens. Equipment used at this level typically includes silicone monofins; students have trained here with tails from Magictail, FinFun, Mertailor and custom silicone makers, depending on what they bring. The school also carries Magictail products for sale and rental.

The course price is 150€ and covers the PADI Advanced Mermaid niveau 3 certification. Certification fees and equipment rental are listed separately in the school's booking system. PADI e-learning for the theoretical component is available at 50 to 80€ and can be completed before arriving.