Martinique

Stick to conservative profiles, especially on deep wrecks in Saint-Pierre Bay and offshore pinnacles where depths can exceed 40 m quickly. Use a dive computer, SMB and audible surface signal on every dive and agree on gas reserves and maximum depths with your guide. Most centers follow PADI, CMAS or FFESSM standards and will request proof of certification and recent experience for sites like Le Roraima or La Perle. Avoid decompression diving unless you are trained, equipped and working with a center that supports that level. Leave at least 18 to 24 hours between your last dive and flying.

As a French department, Martinique benefits from good quality medical care. The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire in Fort-de-France hosts hyperbaric facilities that serve divers from across the French West Indies, and emergency doctors are familiar with treating dive related incidents. In an emergency, locals dial 15 for SAMU (medical), 18 for fire and rescue or 112 from mobile phones, and maritime incidents are coordinated by CROSS Antilles-Guyane on VHF 16 or by dialing 196. Divers should still carry dedicated dive accident insurance and understand that remote north coast or Atlantic sites may have longer evacuation times.

The Parc naturel marin de Martinique protects coastal waters, reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds, while the wider Agoa Sanctuary safeguards whales and dolphins throughout the French Antilles. Core guidelines are simple: do not touch or collect coral, shells or artifacts; never chase or feed turtles, rays or marine mammals; use provided moorings instead of anchoring on reef; and choose reef safe sunscreen. Wrecks in Saint-Pierre Bay are also designated cultural heritage sites, so penetration, artifact removal and any form of disturbance are strictly prohibited. Supporting local clubs, guides and conservation groups helps keep moorings maintained and monitoring programs funded.