Diderot 12

AS Diderot 12 Plongée (ASD12) is a non-profit underwater sports club based in Paris’s 12th arrondissement. Founded in 1982 by 12 passionate divers and affiliated with the French Federation of Underwater Studies and Sports (FFESSM), the club welcomes around 250 members each year. Its volunteer instructors support four activities: scuba diving, freediving, underwater hockey and underwater biology.

Members can train for scuba diving levels 1 to 3, instructor qualifications and Nitrox certification, or pursue freediving training. The club also offers a level 1 underwater biology course to help participants understand marine life. Underwater hockey is available for both recreational and competitive participation.

Training sessions take place at Jean Boiteux swimming pool, with additional sessions in diving pits and outings in natural environments, including sea trips and technical weekends. ASD12 provides courses, documentation and first-aid resources, and organizes conferences and social gatherings. New divers need only fins, a mask and a snorkel to get started; the club also offers guidance on choosing this basic equipment.