By Isabelle Croizeau, Photos Nicolas Barraqué
The wreck of the Cimentier, located in Porquerolles (GPS coordinates: N 43°00.429 and E 06°09.625), is a fascinating dive spot, ideal for divers of all levels. Sunk near the Jeaume Garde beacon, this reinforced concrete barge is a true underwater playground.
A mysterious and accessible wreck
The highest part of the wreck is just a few meters from the surface, bathed in natural light. It is a perfect site for a first wreck diving experience. The Cimentier, a 25-meter barge, remains a mystery: its identity, the exact date, and circumstances of its sinking are unknown.
One theory suggests that it was intentionally sunk by the German army during World War II to serve as a breakwater between the northwest tip of Porquerolles and the island of Petit Langoustier. Another hypothesis mentions an accidental sinking during its construction.
Exploration of the wreck
Although the navigation elements have disappeared (rudder, propellers), the structure of the barge is well preserved, especially the stern and its balcony. The interior of the wreck is spacious and bright, allowing easy and safe exploration for multiple divers. The maximum depth is about 15 meters. The only precaution to take is to watch out for exposed rebar.
A rich ecosystem
The Cimentier rests on a rocky seabed surrounded by a lush Posidonia meadow, providing a refuge for many marine species.
- Visible fauna: common salema (Diplodus sargus), rainbow wrasse (Coris julis), peacock wrasse (Symphodus tinca), cardinalfish (Apogon imberbis).
- Nudibranchs: Hervia (Cratena peregrina), purple flabellina (Flabellina affinis), Dalmatian doris (Peltodoris atromaculata).
- Others: Small octopuses sometimes hide in the structure and the meadow.
Practical diving information
The Cimentier is accessible to all levels of divers and is often the first wreck explored by local divers.
- Diving centers: All diving centers in the area offer trips to the Cimentier.
- Regulations: As the wreck is located in the heart of the Port-Cros National Park, a declaration and authorization are required for diving. If diving outside a structure, declare yourself on the Online Dive Log (CaPeL) of the PNPC site: www.capel.fr
Beyond diving: Discover Porquerolles and its surroundings
Take advantage of your visit to explore the treasures of the region:
- Island of Porquerolles: Walks or bike rides (outside the nesting period of gulls).
- Island of Port-Cros: Hiking on the trails of France’s first terrestrial and marine national park (created in 1963).
- Giens Peninsula: Beautiful beaches like Almanarre and Bergerie.
- Hyères: Visit the city and its historic center.
Prefer spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds.
This article, originally written by Isabelle Croizeau for the printed edition of PLONGEZ!, has been adapted for the web.
Images © Nicolas Barraqué.