Based on Larvotto beach, the Academie Monegasque de la Mer runs courses in scuba diving, freediving, water rescue and first aid. It is led by Pierre Frolla, instructor and freediving world record holder, and Monaco's coordinator for subaquatic activities. The centre is equipped for forty freedivers: wetsuits, specialist fins, buoys and lines calibrated at staged depths from ten to fifty metres.
Supervision is by state-qualified instructors, with PADI, CMAS, FFESSM and FMAS accreditation. Outings run between Menton and Cap de Nice. The academy works with formed groups, individual first dives, exploration dives and private formats, from the age of eight. First dives are held from May to October, the stretch of the year when water and light best serve the discipline. Departure is from the beach itself, with no road transfer.
Other experiences in Port Hercule
The Salle Garnier, inaugurated in 1879 on Place du Casino, can be taken over in full for a closed event. Gold, velvet and precious woods, beneath a sixteen-metre ceiling.
Culture & HeritageTrophy of Augustus, La Turbie, a monument open to private hireThe Roman monument at La Turbie is among the sites offered for private hire by the Centre des monuments nationaux. A stone belvedere above the Principality.
Adventure & OutdoorsAstrorama, Eze, a private observation eveningOn the Grande Corniche above Eze, the PARSEC association opens its astronomy site for private evenings and days, away from the coastal glare.
Wellness & Private RetreatsChateau des Terrasses, Cap-d'AilA Belle Epoque villa facing the Mediterranean on the edge of Monaco. The commune of Cap-d'Ail opens its ground floor, first floor and gardens to private receptions.
Culture & HeritageMonaco Exotic Garden, private hire of the groundsClinging to the cliff above the Principality, the Exotic Garden opens its grounds to private hire, amid one of the world's major collections of cacti and succulents.