SEAOMAN will welcome international free diving star Pierre Frolla to its Dive Centre at Al Mouj Marina, Muscat. During his visit, Pierre, a freediving world record holder and now environmental educator, will lead six days of ocean expeditions with members of the public. These aim to offer the ultimate encounter with whale sharks as they make their annual journey along the Omani coast.
“Whale sharks are magnificent creatures, a true wonder of the submarine world,“ said Pierre Frolla, “I believe the wonderful underwater conditions that the Sultanate can offer will provide the perfect conditions to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat – a very rare and special opportunity!”
The whale shark season in Oman runs from September – November and is a highlight of the country’s diving calendar. Pods of the giant whale sharks – usually consisting of 10 to 15 individuals – can be found as they make their way towards the Daymaniyat Islands, a nature reserve 16 miles off the coast of Oman, northwest of Muscat. On any given day in the season there is an average 90 per cent chance of encountering the creatures.
Originating from Monaco, Pierre Frolla, 43, holds four worlds and other championship records in freediving, an activity that does not use any artificial aids, such as scuba gear. His world record in 2004 saw him free dive to an incredible depth of 123 metres.
In 2015, Pierre’s lifelong affinity with the sea was ultimately confirmed when he married his wife, Mara, in an underwater ceremony! Since his retirement from competitive diving, he has subsequently become involved in numerous educational, environmental and charitable projects. Pierre is also a Champion for Peace ambassador within the Monaco-based Peace and Sport organisation, which uses sport as a unifying force in crisis areas around the world.
For an experience of a lifetime, you can swim under the guidance of Pierre Frolla during his stay in the Sultanate. Morning and afternoon sessions are OMR 35 per person and will be hosted daily from September 29th – October 7th, between 8am – 12 noon and 1pm – 5pm. Adventures will depart from SEAOMAN’s HQ at the Al Mouj Marina in Muscat. The whale shark experience is open to all keen participants aged 8+ and buoyancy aids can be provided.
Confident swimmers will enjoy the Discover Freediving workshop, which Pierre will exclusively host at SEAOMAN HQ on October 5th. 24 places are available, at OMR 100 per person, with the workshop combining theory and practical sessions out in the water.
Registration and booking for all the sessions can now be made with SEAOMAN. With all spaces being allocated on a first come, first served basis, early booking is highly recommended.
