A Major Event for Dive Enthusiasts and the Curious
Get ready to take the plunge in the heart of Paris as the Salon de la Plongée Sous-Marine makes its return to the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles from January 8 to 11, 2026. Now in its 27th edition, this international event has become a must for diving fans and professionals alike. But it’s not just for seasoned divers—curious newcomers are also invited to explore a wide range of fun activities and interactive experiences on-site.
Exciting Activities and Interactive Experiences
Visitors will find a packed program designed to appeal to everyone. Whether you want to try a first freedive or scuba dive in a 200-square-meter pool, meet top international divers for autograph sessions, or attend talks with leading advocates for marine conservation, there’s no shortage of excitement. The show also features movie screenings, educational workshops, special exhibitions, and live demonstrations of the latest innovations in diving technology. Boredom simply isn’t an option.
An Open Door to the World of Diving
While experienced divers will find plenty of familiar faces and advanced topics, the Paris Dive Show remains true to its mission of welcoming a broad audience. It’s the go-to event for anyone looking to explore the fascinating underwater world, both in France and globally. Exhibitors showcase the latest in diving across tropical and cold seas, rivers, caves, and lakes—whether you prefer scuba tanks or freediving.
Encounters With Rays: Thrills Beneath the Waves
Back in 2016, a dive team filming a documentary near Perth, Australia, had an unforgettable run-in with one of the ocean’s most graceful giants. While filming at a depth of four meters, a group of curious rays approached the divers. Suddenly, one of them rushed up and “bit” diver Johnny Debnam on the head. Fortunately, it was only a harmless pinch, with no injury—just a surprising and amusing moment. The animal, a 1.8-meter-long, 150-kilogram ray, even repeated the action. As Debnam joked, “I think she just wanted to try a taste of this strange human shape hiding in the seaweed.” He stresses that incidents like this are very rare and that rays only react if they feel threatened.
Rays: The Stars of Marine Ecotourism
In recent years, diving with rays has become one of the highlights of marine ecotourism. Manta rays, in particular, have captivated divers around the world. These majestic creatures can span up to seven meters and weigh over two tons, gliding effortlessly through warm tropical waters. They pose no threat to humans, feeding exclusively on plankton and lacking any venomous stinger.
Some of the top destinations for observing manta rays include Hanifaru Bay in the Maldives, Nusa Penida in Indonesia, and Kona in Hawaii. These spots have become renowned sanctuaries, drawing divers eager to witness the spectacular “plankton feasts” of these gentle giants. At Nusa Penida, for example, manta rays gather at “cleaning stations” where small fish remove parasites and dead skin—a truly fascinating natural display that’s accessible even to beginner divers.
Stingrays: Know Before You Go
Another common species is the stingray, which is smaller and has a venomous barb at the base of its tail. While generally not aggressive, a stingray may use its barb in self-defense if startled or threatened—often when unsuspecting beachgoers step on one hidden in the sand. Stings are rare but can be very painful. The recommended first aid is to immerse the affected area in hot water (around 45°C) to neutralize the venom and seek medical attention promptly. However, with the guidance of a knowledgeable dive leader, most risks can be easily avoided.
Best Times and Places to Swim With Rays in 2025
Thanks to a better understanding of migration patterns, the best times and locations for seeing rays are now well established:
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May to September: Nusa Penida, Indonesia
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June to October: Hanifaru Bay, Maldives
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Year-round: Kona, Hawaii
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April to August: Socorro, Mexico
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October to March: Galápagos Islands
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Even in Europe: In the Canary Islands, near Tenerife and Lanzarote, divers can spot stingrays and eagle rays close to shore.
A Unique Opportunity to Discover the Underwater World
With its mix of adventure, learning, and discovery, the Salon de la Plongée Sous-Marine 2026 offers a gateway to the wonders of the ocean for divers of all experience levels. Whether you’re looking to take your first plunge or deepen your connection with marine life, Paris is the place to be this January.
