This dive site, Anse de la Mauresque, located north of Port-Vendres in France, offers a sheltered and accessible diving experience suitable for all levels. The site is protected from the south wind and the Tramontane, making it a relatively calm and predictable dive. Navigating underwater is straightforward, with the main features being faults and coralligenous areas at 18-20m (although the maximum dive depth stated is 14m). The bottom is relatively even with some interesting rock formations.
The marine life is rich and varied. Divers and snorkelers can expect to see nudibranchs, white gorgonians, and lobsters amongst the coral. Schools of castagnoles, oblades, saupes, and sars are common, along with occasional sightings of larger fish such as dentex and barracuda.
The best time to visit Anse de la Mauresque is during the warmer months (June to September) when the water temperature is most pleasant and visibility is generally at its best. Good visibility can often be found even outside of this period. For freediving, the calm conditions and shallow depths make it ideal, allowing for extended dives, especially during the summer. While current is mild, divers should always check the conditions before entering the water.
