

Best for intermediate divers, 3-35m, boat entry, mild current.
Les Moyades, located at Île de Riou, offers a diverse underwater topography consisting of reefs, walls, and caves. Divers can explore depths ranging from 3 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site requires boat access and is suitable for intermediate divers. Visibility typically spans 10 to 30 metres. Marine life includes common sightings of wrasses and scorpionfish, while uncommon species such as common octopus, great barracuda, Mediterranean moray, and various nudibranchs are also recorded. Hazards include sea urchins, sharp rocks, and overhead environments in cave sections. Water temperatures range from 14 to 18C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Night diving is available at this location.
43.17680, 5.37308
Boat access is the only option, so arrange your charter in advance and confirm current conditions with the operator on the day. Wear robust dive boots and watch your positioning around the wall and cave sections, where sea urchins and sharp rock are common contact hazards.
Located south of Marseille, off the coast of the Calanques massif, as part of the Riou archipelago.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-35m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
14-18°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Nov
Divers frequently encounter wrasses and scorpionfish. Less common sightings include common octopus, great barracuda, Mediterranean moray, flatworms, cow snails, and various nudibranch species like the tricolor doris and Mediterranean violet aeolid.
Les Moyades is rated for intermediate divers. The site includes overhead environments in cave sections and depths reaching 35 metres, which require advanced buoyancy control and decompression planning.
The site features a depth range of 3 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
No, boat access is required to reach Les Moyades, which is located 2000 metres from the shore. You must arrange a charter in advance.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the shallowest sections start at 3 metres. However, boat access is mandatory for all visitors.
Diving at Les Moyades in Marseille requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Les Moyades in Marseille. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C.
The best months to visit Les Moyades in Marseille are June, July, August, September, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Les Moyades in Marseille should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Les Moyades in Marseille typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Les Moyades in Marseille typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.