The Federation Francaise d'Etudes et de Sports Sous-Marins (FFESSM) is the French federation of underwater sports and studies, which is a resource for scuba divers throughout the world. Individuals wishing to take a diving class in the Ivory Coast will notice that there are few diving schools based in the Ivory Coast, but many scuba diving groups travel to the Ivory Coast from other locations to expeditions. Many of these groups are French and are based in France, so if you would like to link up with an scuba travel group headed to the Ivory Coast, you may have the best luck starting your search in France. (Due to U.S. travel advisories, it may be impossible to find a U.S.-based scuba group planning a trip to the Ivory Coast.) Before these expeditions, participants may take diving classes at an FFESSM facility to prepare for dive conditions in the Ivory Coast.
Gersma is "le centre de plongee en Cote d'Ivoire," which translates to "Ivory Coast dive center." The organization is affiliated with the FFESSM. The center operates expeditions and serves as a meeting place for individuals interested in scuba diving in the Ivory Coast, particularly in Abidjan. The organization is recognized by the Confederation Mondiale des Activities Subaquatiques (CMAS). Gersma also offers courses to teach beginning and experienced divers methods of diving, staying safe under water, preparing and using their equipment and understanding water conditions. After taking scuba classes, students may take an exam before heading to the water to dive. The Gersma website is written in French, so travelers who do not speak French will want to have a translator present.
The Salon de la Plongee is a French organization dedicated to scuba diving study and exhibitions of underwater life. The organization is based in Paris and maintains a database of diving organizations throughout the world that offer excursions for their members. These scuba diving organizations also offer training through group classes or can connect individuals with scuba instructors who can provide private instruction. Individuals wishing to learn to dive in the Ivory Coast may contact a scuba organization listed on the Salon de la Plongee website to find out if it is planning an upcoming excursion to the Ivory Coast---or if it is possible to arrange a lesson with a certified instructor located in the Ivory Coast. Travel companies that specialize in scuba adventures include Aggressor Fleet, based in Augusta, Georgia, Atlantides Plongee, based in Merignac, France and Demetz, based in Villiers sur Marne, France.
