A deep dive at a depth of 120 m
The Gambiers Archipelago is the 10th island explored by the Deep Hope program. On this site, there is very little information about corals and the team will carry out a 120 m deep dive in these almost virgin seas of underwater exploration.
After a descent to an extreme depth in the heart of the pure blue of the ocean, it is time to collect the corals. After 15 minutes, the bags are full and it is time to go up at a steady speed. First a first level at 60 m and then a second level at 50 m, where the team allows its samples to be brought to the surface using parachutes.
This long ascent with a long decompression is an opportunity to observe the reef, rich in corals and species not usually found. A distinctive sign of the Gambiers compared to the other islands of Polynesia
One of the richest collections in the world
If the fauna of the Gambiers is well known from 0 to 30 m, deep dives have made it possible to bring back about fifteen unknown species from this archipelago. A collection of the world's richest collections for mesophotic settlements.
Experts will now be able to deliver a complete inventory of the coral species collected and prepare samples for various analyses such as coral breeding in very deep areas.
Local discoveries and departures
The crew has the chance to participate in the Festival des Gambiers, an evening of dance and music with groups from all over Polynesia presenting their dances and cultures.
The time has now come to start with 800 miles of sailing - 5 to 8 days - towards Tubuai, the island of the Austral Islands, in French Polynesia.
