A novel underwater experience is offering swimmers the chance to explore the Mediterranean with the sensation of flying beneath the surface…
Freediving instructor Julien Barbagallo has spent three years developing “Free Underflying”, which uses two compact electric underwater scooters attached to the participant’s thighs. Controlled remotely and offering four speeds, the motors propel rather than pull the swimmer, leaving both hands free and allowing direction to be controlled largely through body movement.
Barbagallo first conceived the idea in 2019 while working on safety at an international freediving competition. Rather than experienced divers, however, the activity has proved particularly popular with families and tourists looking for an unusual way to discover the waters around Cap-d’Ail.
Sessions cost €100 and typically last between 45 minutes and an hour, with groups limited to four people. Around 50 people have tried Free Underflying since last year, alongside more than 500 customers taking conventional underwater scooter tours.
As reported by Monaco Matin, the concept could also have applications beyond tourism. Barbagallo is developing educational marine programmes for children and exploring adaptations that could help people with reduced mobility experience greater independence in the water.
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