The underwater museum

What is the Underwater Museum of Marseille?

The Underwater Museum, as its name suggests, is a museum located … underwater. Monumental and majestic sculptures have been placed at a depth of 5 meters (16 feet) so that the public can come and admire them. There are currently eight of them.
The museum aims to raise public awareness of environmental issues, marine biology and to awaken people to the world of art and water sports (snorkeling, diving).
The museum’s sponsor is the three-time freediving world champion, Morgan Bourc’his.
The artists created various sculptures with recycled Ph neutral cement which does not impact the marine environment. These works, skillfully exhibited, create an artificial reef.

How to visit the Underwater Museum of Marseille?

The visit of the museum is free and everyone is responsible for their own actions. The site is open to all.
However, it is possible to visit with a guide, by booking a time slot on the museum site.  The visit is done with a qualified instructor (LE GRASM Diving Club) with fins and snorkels, freediving or scuba diving.

If you decide to visit the site by your own means (without a guide), it is advisable to follow the following recommendations:

– To be able to swim 200 meters (220 yd) (100 meters one way/100 meters return)
– Be equipped with a mask or swimming goggles, snorkel and flippers: without a mask, the visit is of no interest.
– Use a swim board or a pool noodle if needed.
– Find out about the weather conditions before getting into the water (wind and waves).
– Visit in pairs
– Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
– Signal to someone on the beach that you are going to the site
– If you have a problem, the safety buoy will allow you to rest on the museum site.
– Do not touch the sculptures
– Avoid touching the marine life, some may sting and/or be venomous.
– Do not collect fauna or flora (shellfish, sea urchins, etc.).
– Help keep the site clean by picking up waste found underwater.
– You are in a ZIEM (zone forbidden to motorboats)

The Mediterranean Sea is fragile, it must be preserved, be vigilant and please respect the recommendations