Diving the Wreck of the Hirondelle

Site Overview

Wreck of the Hirondelle is a wreck and altitude dive site in Inland France, France, reached from the base town of Evian-les-Bains. The Hirondelle is a steamer wreck lying at 40-50 m in Lake Geneva off Evian, a technical altitude dive. The cold, clear water preserves the hull, and perch and whitefish shelter within. The site reaches a maximum depth of 50 m with an average profile around 35 m and a shallow start near 20 m, which places it firmly in the technical category and means divers should hold at least an Advanced / Trimix certification. Conditions are typical of the French inland freshwater coast: visibility generally runs from 8 to 18 metres, the current is mild, and the water temperature ranges between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius with low surge exposure. The marine community is centred on European Perch, Common Whitefish, Brown Trout, Arctic Char, Common Roach, Common Rudd, and the full species list is detailed below for divers planning a trip. Wreck of the Hirondelle is a strong representative of why Inland France 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 Inland France 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.