This dive site, known as L'hélicoptère, centers around the fascinating wreck of a Royal Air Force Gazelle helicopter. Divers begin with a 30-meter descent into the blue, after which they navigate around a spit of rock to reach the helicopter. The wreck, originally damaged at sea in 1993, was thoughtfully moved to its current location in 2003, providing an intriguing artificial reef and a unique navigational experience. The maximum depth of the site is 31 meters, with an average depth of approximately 15 meters, offering varied diving profiles.
The L'hélicoptère site is particularly noted for its interesting macro life. Divers can observe dogfish eggs hanging from the rotor blades of the helicopter, offering a unique photographic opportunity. Additionally, the site hosts a Gerardia anemone, a species of anemone known for its striking appearance and rarity, adding to the biological diversity of the wreck and surrounding rock formations. While not a big fish dive, the specific small inhabitants make it special.
The best time to visit this dive site, typical for the Mediterranean, is during the summer and early autumn months when water temperatures are warmer and conditions are generally calm. While the initial descent to 30 meters requires comfort with depth, the average depth of 15 meters means parts of the site are suitable for divers with intermediate experience. Freedivers can also enjoy exploring the shallower parts of the rock spit, though reaching the wreck itself requires advanced breath-hold diving skills. Remember to maintain good buoyancy, especially around the delicate wreck and its marine inhabitants.
