Certified Scuba Diving – Cousteau Marine Reserve Exploration

1 Hour

Overview

Calling all certified divers (PADI Open Water, CMAS, FFESSM Level 1 and above): immerse yourself in the heart of Guadeloupe's most famous protected marine park, the Cousteau Reserve in Bouillante!

Diving around the Pigeon Islands offers extraordinary diversity: plunging coral walls, volcanic canyons, vibrant sponge gardens, and the famous submerged bust of Commander Jacques-Yves Cousteau. With water temperatures averaging 28°C and visibility often exceeding 30 meters, you will encounter green sea turtles, barracudas, spotted eagle rays, and moray eels in optimal diving conditions.

Highlights

  • Iconic dive sites: The Coral Garden, The Pool, and The Drop-Off
  • Supervised by experienced state-certified dive instructors
  • Abundant marine wildlife: sea turtles, barracudas, rays, and tropical fish
  • Small buddy teams grouped by certification level and air consumption
  • Tanks and weights included with every dive

Dive Schedule

  • Stage
    1

    Check-in & Gear Preparation

    Check in at the dive center on Malendure beach, present your certification card and logbook, and prepare your gear.

  • Stage
    2

    Boat Departure & Site Briefing

    Short 10-minute boat ride to Pigeon Island, followed by a comprehensive dive briefing detailing topography and depths.

  • Stage
    3

    The Exploration Dive (45-60 min)

    Explore the underwater volcanic formations, marine life, and coral landscapes within your certification limits.

  • Stage
    4

    Surface Interval & Debriefing

    Return to the dive shop, log your dive, and share impressions with your guide over a warm beverage.

What is Included

  • Boat transfer to the Pigeon Islands (Cousteau Reserve)
  • Tanks (aluminum / steel) and lead weights
  • Guiding by certified divemaster / instructor (or autonomous buddy pairing)
  • Hot tea, freshwater showers, and logbook stamp after the dive

What is Not Included

  • Complete equipment rental (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, computer) if not bringing own gear
  • Underwater camera hire and photos
  • Personal insurance and dive gear insurance
  • Transfers to Malendure beach dive center

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What certification do I need to join this exploration dive?

You must hold at least an entry-level certification (PADI Open Water, SSI, FFESSM / CMAS 1 Star, or equivalent). Please bring your certification card and logbook.

How deep are the dive sites in the Cousteau Reserve?

Sites range from 10 meters (33 ft) down to 40+ meters (130 ft), offering fantastic dives for every level from beginner to advanced deep diver.