intermediate
    (45)

    Diving La Pierre Levee

    22m Max
    10-22m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    La Pierre Levee is a reef and pinnacle dive site in Atlantic Coast, France, reached from the base town of La Rochelle. La Pierre Levee is a rocky reef and pinnacle off La Rochelle, rising from the sandy seabed. Conger eels, lobsters and pollack hold on the rock, with good macro in the cracks. The site reaches a maximum depth of 22 m with an average profile around 14 m and a shallow start near 6 m, which places it firmly in the intermediate category and means divers should hold at least an Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the French coastal coast: visibility generally runs from 10 to 22 metres, the current is moderate, and the water temperature ranges between 12 and 18 degrees Celsius with moderate surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Conger Eel, European Lobster, Atlantic Cod, Small-spotted Catshark, Pollock, Spider Crab, and the full species list is detailed below for divers planning a trip. La Pierre Levee is a strong representative of why Atlantic Coast diving is so highly regarded, blending the geology, history and biodiversity that define French underwater exploration. It pairs naturally with the other sites of the Atlantic Coast region for a varied holiday, and with the right thermal protection and, where relevant, the correct specialist training, it offers a memorable dive for photographers, naturalists and wreck or reef enthusiasts alike.

    Dive Briefing

    "Entry is made by boat from La Rochelle with a transfer of about 40 minutes, and divers should check in with a local centre in La Rochelle before entering the water. La Pierre Levee is a rocky reef and pinnacle off La Rochelle, rising from the sandy seabed. Conger eels, lobsters and pollack hold on the rock, with good macro in the cracks. Plan your profile around a maximum depth of 22 m and an average of 14 m, keeping a close eye on gas and, in the deeper or enclosed sections, on the moderate surge. Buoyancy control matters here: the rock bottom and submerged structures are easily disturbed, and Rocky reef, Moderate current, Cold water are real considerations throughout the dive. The reef and pinnacle topography offers pinnacle, reef, and the marine life centres on Conger Eel, European Lobster, Atlantic Cod, Small-spotted Catshark, Pollock, Spider Crab alongside the other species listed for the site. Take a moment to review the site-specific hazards with your guide, because conditions at La Pierre Levee can shift with wind and tide and change the feel of the dive. A safe ascent with a surface marker buoy and a clear exit plan completes the dive, with emergency cover routed through Centre Hyperbare, Hopital de La Rochelle."

    Signature Marine Life

    Conger Eel

    high

    Conger conger

    Best: June, July, August

    European Lobster

    high

    Hommarus gammarus

    Best: June, July, August

    Atlantic Cod

    high

    Gadus morhua

    Best: June, July, August

    Small-spotted Catshark

    high

    Scyliorhinus canicula

    Best: June, July, August

    Pollock

    high

    Pollachius pollachius

    Best: June, July, August

    Spider Crab

    high

    Maja squinado

    Best: June, July, August

    Safety & Hazards

    • Rocky reef
    • Moderate current
    • Cold water
    • Boat traffic
    • Variable visibility
    Nearest Chamber
    Centre Hyperbare, Hopital de La Rochelle
    40km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    La Pierre Levee suits intermediate divers holding at least an Open Water certification, and it is a strong choice for those who enjoy the French coastal water of the French coast. Photographers, training groups and divers chasing reef, pinnacle, intermediate, photography will all find something here, provided they respect the temperature, the marine park rules and the limits of each site. It is less suitable for absolute novices unless booked through a centre running a supervised course, and the deepest or most enclosed sections should only be attempted with the correct specialist training and a guide. Planning a dive here with a licensed French operator not only keeps you safe but also helps protect the fragile gorgonian forests, seagrass meadows, wrecks and reefs that make the site special for the next visitor.

    reef
    pinnacle
    intermediate
    photography

    For Non-Divers

    La Rochelle towers; Ile de Re salt marshes; Local markets

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyintermediate
    CertificationOpen Water
    Currentmoderate
    Water Temp12-18°C
    Best TimeJune - September

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • La Rochelle Plongee
    • Arcachon Plongee
    • Biarritz Subaquatique
    • Re Island Plongee
    • Oleron Plongee
    Pricing Guide
    $70 - $130
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    16-35mm

    Best for: wide_angle

    Nearby Stay

    Hotel Mercure La Rochelle

    La Rochelle4km away

    Check Availability

    Hotel La Corniche

    Arcachon3km away

    Check Availability