Marion Moriceau, the Ocean’s Amazon

Originally from Vendée, Marion Moriceau grew up in the bay of Les Sables-d’Olonne, within a family of fishermen. From a young age, she was captivated by the ocean, dreaming of becoming a fisherman like the men around her. This dream was fueled by her experiences, notably by following the departures of the famous Vendée Globe. Her love for the sea intensified after a drowning experience at the age of 7, where she felt an amazing connection with the water. Her father, who saved her, said: « It’s the best thing that could have happened to you! »

First Steps into Diving

At 16, Marion obtained her boating license before even getting her driver’s license. During her holidays in Agadir, she went on board with friends and made her first dives, although, in ignorance of the dangers, this was not an example to follow. Upon returning to Les Sables, she decided to seriously train in scuba diving by joining a FFESSM structure while working in seasonal catering. Her dream was to spend all her time underwater.

A New Path: Professional Diving

Professional diving crossed her path when she saw divers at the port of Les Sables working on a lock. With a degree in communication, she began questioning her career choices. By talking to these divers, she felt the need to prove she could succeed in a traditionally male field. Encouraged by her father, she joined a military preparation at the school of Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, becoming the first woman to undergo training with Commandant Michel Ravoisier. In six months, she gained confidence and set her course for professional diving.