418 Dive Log Australasia JUNE 2026.pdf

contributes to its suitability for ecological observation and underwater photography. How This Diving Differs from Other Environments Freshwater quarry diving at Plan d’eau du Colombier differs from ocean diving in several key ways: Shallow depth profiles allow extended bottom times, with both dives lasting around 70 minutes. Pronounced thermoclines affect comfort, in terms of temperature variability, and visibility. Limited visibility (0–5 m) shifts the focus to close-range observation. No tides or currents , enabling precise buoyancy control. Artificial structures such as the barge wreck function as stable habitats. These characteristics make the site particularly well suited to training, skill refinement, and slow, methodical exploration. Why Dive with Anne Bernardet and Néréides Plongée Diving with Anne Bernardet and Néréides Plongée stands out for its professionalism, local knowledge, and clear focus on diver development. Anne’s familiarity with Plan d’eau du Colombier allows dives to be planned realistically around conditions such as visibility, thermoclines, and depth limits. Briefings are thorough without being overcomplicated, covering not only safety and navigation but also species identification and environmental considerations. This approach makes Néréides Plongée particularly well suited to divers learning freshwater or low-visibility techniques, as well as experienced divers looking to refine buoyancy, trim, and situational awareness. The emphasis on calm pacing and observation ensures that dives are controlled, efficient, and genuinely informative. Why This Type of Diving Is Especially Rewarding Freshwater quarry diving such as that found at Plan d’eau du Colombier can be particularly rewarding when compared to more conventional ocean or tropical diving.

Huge Wels catfish (Le Silure)

The shallow depths allow long bottom times, encouraging slow, deliberate exploration rather than route-based diving. Limited visibility shifts attention toward close-range detail, animal behaviour, and precise buoyancy control. Thermoclines add environmental complexity, requiring divers to actively manage exposure and comfort. Rather than relying on dramatic scenery, this style of diving rewards patience, awareness, and technique — skills that transfer directly to all other diving environments. For many divers, this makes quarry diving not just different, but highly valuable. Conclusion Diving Plan d’eau du Colombier with Anne Bernardet and Néréides Plongée demonstrates the value of inland freshwater sites for divers seeking alternatives to coastal environments. Warm surface conditions, shallow depths, extended dive times, and a high concentration of aquatic life combine to create a controlled and engaging diving experience. For divers interested in freshwater ecosystems, quarry wrecks, and detailed wildlife observation, Plan d’eau du Colombier, along with other local dive sites, offers a practical and rewarding option within the Beaujolais region of France.

Anne Bernardet of Néréides Plongée

Florida Turtle (Tortue de Floride

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Dive Log Australasia #418 June ’26

www.divelog.net.au