The bay’s unique features.
- The bay is a deep, well-sheltered body of water offering quick access to great depths—ideal conditions for freediving.
- Located on the French Riviera, near Nice, it is easily accessible to divers and clubs, making it simple to organize events and regular training sessions.
Competitions and International Recognition
- The bay has hosted several editions of the World Freediving Championships, including in 2019, marking the fifth time in the history of these championships.
- This event brought together hundreds of freedivers from around the world, solidifying Villefranche’s reputation as the “world capital” of freediving.
- Thanks to this, numerous world records and exceptional performances have been achieved in the harbor, drawing international attention to the location.
Why does the bay remain a legendary spot today?
- It combines a favorable and highly rare natural environment (depth, shelter, water quality) with a strong heritage tied to the early days of competitive freediving.
- It has witnessed the birth of records, competitions, schools, and generations of freedivers, making it a historic and vibrant hub for the sport.
- It remains a go-to destination for anyone who wants to dive, train, or simply reconnect with the sea in a setting that blends nature, performance, and mindfulness.
Iconic Figures & Legacy
- Loïc Leferme, a French freediver and multiple world record holder, has used the harbor as a training ground and venue for his No Limit dives.
- Guillaume Néry, a multiple world record holder and world champion in the constant-weight monofin discipline.
- Thanks to these initiatives, the bay remains a vibrant hub for sharing knowledge, training, and passion for freediving, for champions and water lovers alike.
Milestones in the History of Freediving in Villefranche-sur-Mer
1992: Founding of AIDA, the International Association for the Development of Freediving, in Villefranche-sur-Mer, marking the modern beginning of competitive freediving in the region.
1996: Organization of the first team freediving world championship in the harbor. This established Villefranche as the “birthplace of modern freediving.”
Between 1999 and 2004, divers came to break several world records in No Limit freediving in the harbor, notably Loïc Leferme, who chose the harbor of Villefranche for his deep dives.
Over the years, the harbor has established itself as a premier site for freediving, attracting both elite competitors and enthusiasts freedivers.
