Diving the Molene Archipelago

Site Overview

Molene Archipelago is a reef and kelp dive site in Brittany, France, reached from the base town of Le Conquet. The Molene archipelago is a remote Iroise island group of granite reefs wrapped in kelp forest and patrolled by grey seals. Cuckoo wrasse, pollack and conger eels live among the kelp, and the tidal races bring clear, cold water. The site reaches a maximum depth of 25 m with an average profile around 15 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 strong, and the water temperature ranges between 11 and 16 degrees Celsius with high surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Grey Seal, Conger Eel, European Lobster, Cuckoo Wrasse, Pollock, Corkwing Wrasse, and the full species list is detailed below for divers planning a trip. Molene Archipelago is a strong representative of why Brittany 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 Brittany 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.