Cala di Mare
Corsica, France
A boutique FFESSM and AIDA freediving school at the Vieux Port of Bastia, offering certification courses, depth training, Share Equalization coaching, first aid training, and guided wreck dives on the Alcione C and P47 along northern Corsica's Mediterranean coast.
Overview
About Cala di Mare
Cala di Mare is a freediving school based at the Vieux Port of Bastia, Corsica, run by BPJEPS and AIDA instructor Joseph Laurelli alongside Maud and Rémi Viale, both holding DEJEPS qualifications in underwater diving. The school offers FFESSM and AIDA certification courses, freediving stages, first aid training, and equalization coaching using the Share Equalization method developed by Federico Mana. Guided activities include wreck dives on the Alcione C and P47, spearfishing outings, snorkeling, and multi-day group stays with accommodation and full board on the eastern Corsican coast.
A personalized, safety-first approach integrating Federico Mana's Share Equalization methods, adapted to each student's level from first-time divers to advanced depth practitioners.
Whether you are looking to discover apnea for the first time or earn a recognised freediving certification in Corsica, Cala di Mare provides a structured path. The school accepts both first-time freedivers and experienced divers pursuing deeper progression. Instruction is available in French.
Ideal for
Who should learn freediving at Cala di Mare
Beginners
A welcoming, low-pressure introduction to breath-hold diving in Bastia's calm, clear Mediterranean waters, with a structured and accessible teaching style suited to all ages.
Advanced
Deep Mediterranean walls with protected marine reserves for experienced exploration dives.
Training focus
Joseph Laurelli holds BPJEPS, MEF1, AIDA Instructor, and Share Equalization Monitor credentials, enabling structured equalization coaching grounded in Federico Mana's methods.
Why this school
What makes Cala di Mare stand out
Coaching approach
A personalized, safety-first approach integrating Federico Mana's Share Equalization methods, adapted to each student's level from first-time divers to advanced depth practitioners.
Class format
Classes are kept to a small-group format to ensure more personal attention and actual dive time. Equipment rental is available on-site for those traveling light.
Course progression
The school focuses on entry-level freediving, from first breath-hold sessions through beginner certifications. Best suited for newcomers exploring the sport before progressing elsewhere.
Courses & Pricing
Cala di Mare freediving courses and prices in Corsica
Cala di Mare lists 5 course options, pricing on request.
This represents a visible ladder from first course to more committed progression covering everything from discovery dives to advanced certification levels, all delivered under AIDA and FFESSM frameworks.
Freediving Course in Bastia
From
~ $207 USD
FFESSM & AIDA Freediving Certification
First Aid Training
Share Equalization START – Beginner Equalization
From
~ $273 USD
Share Equalization DEEP – Advanced Equalization
From
~ $218 USD
Training environment
Training sites and conditions in Corsica
Training takes place from the old port of Bastia in the clear Mediterranean waters along the Corsican coastline. Activities include open-water depth sessions, wreck dives on historical sites including the Alcione C and P47, spearfishing outings, and snorkeling. Multi-day group stays with supervised freediving sessions, accommodation, and full board are also available on the eastern Corsican coast.
Corsica gives the school boat-based access to the main training sites with up to 100m depth available in the broader destination profile.
At a glance
Facilities, languages & certifications
Certifications
Languages
Facilities
Boat access, Equipment rental, Shore access
What you get
What is included in courses
Courses at Cala di Mare include open-water sessions, theory sessions, certification, boat access, and equipment rental. Equipment rental may be available separately.
Certification fees, transport to training sites, and other costs may be included or separate depending on the course.
Dive conditions
Learn to freedive in Corsica
Corsica offers boat-based access and warm water with boat-based access to the main training sites and sets the water profile for Cala di Mare.
Cala di Mare is based in Corsica.
Surface water temperature ranges from 14 to 26 °C year-round, with the best window falling in June–September.
Open season runs June 1 through October 31 in Corsica's Mediterranean waters.
Destination
Discover the destination
Learn more about where Cala di Mare is based — conditions, best season, depth, and more.
Alternatives
Compare Cala di Mare with other schools in Corsica
Other freediving schools in Corsica with listed courses, certifications, and pricing.
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions about Cala di Mare
Everything you need to know about freediving, training, and choosing the right destination.
01 What certifications does Cala di Mare offer?
Cala di Mare offers AIDA and FFESSM certification courses. Multiple agencies are available.
02 How much do courses at Cala di Mare cost?
Prices at Cala di Mare start from EUR 190 for entry-level courses and go up to EUR 250 for advanced levels. Course duration ranges from 1 - 2 days to Online, 12-month access.
03 Who is Cala di Mare best for?
A welcoming, low-pressure introduction to breath-hold diving in Bastia's calm, clear Mediterranean waters, with a structured and accessible teaching style suited to all ages. The school also works well for beginners, intermediate, and technique-focused.
04 Where does Cala di Mare train?
Cala di Mare trains in Corsica, which offers boat-based access and warm water with boat-based access to the main training sites. The main training sites are Vieux Port de Bastia and Cap Corse.
05 How do I contact or book with Cala di Mare?
You can book through email at contact@caladimare.fr. Check the website for current course schedules and availability. You can also reach the school by phone at +33 6 81 81 09 05.
06 Is Corsica a good place to learn freediving?
Corsica is well-suited to beginners and those looking to earn a freediving certification. The destination offers boat-based access and warm water with boat-based access to the main training sites, making it a practical base for structured apnea training. Open season runs June 1 through October 31 in Corsica's Mediterranean waters.