Cannes - Palm Beach

Club des Dauphins Sea Swimming School

Since 1962

Our swimming school on "Bijou Plage" in Cannes

Since 1962, our swimming school on Bijou Plage in Cannes has seen thousands of children learn to swim with us. It's a family story, initiated by Michel VACHEZ, who created the exceptional 'MODERN SWIMMING SCHOOL.' Then, his son Thierry VACHEZ continued to share this passion for teaching swimming through a unique method and pedagogy under the name of 'Club des Dauphins.'

For 60 years, this professional and family adventure has continued, offering our students quality instruction in a friendly and caring atmosphere, all in a unique aquatic setting.
All swimming instructors know how to swim.
Ours actually know how to teach
Welcome to the public beach of "Bijou Plage" in Cannes. Swimming school on the Côte d'Azur.
We teach in a unique environment (watch the video)

My name is Thierry and I’m a fully-qualified alpine skiing, swimming and fitness instructor.
I teach all these activities throughout the year.


Bijou Plage Beach
from June 15th to early September
Find us from June 15th to early September
at Bijou Plage Beach, Croisette Point in Cannes.

  • Informations : 9h to 12h30 and from 15h to 17h30
  • Lessons given : from 9h to 13h and from 15h to 18h
How to book? Remember to book well in advance of your stay to make sure you have room
(Reservations open from march)

Contact us
early childhood teaching

Learn to swim from the age of 4

To focus on swimming, I want you to know that everyone can learn to swim from the age of 4, and when I say swim I mean coordinating the movements of the arms and legs in water (every child progresses at a different rate). Of course, this needs someone who has been trained to work with young children.

Watch the video of our young swimmers to get an idea of ​​our know-how. (watch the video)

I was given such training early in my career and I’ve gone on to gain unique experience and expertise. My swimming school offers a warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and level of professionalism that you won’t find anywhere else.

Kids, teens and adults are all welcome to try out the activities that I organize during the summer season.
Club des Dauphins FAQ Club des Dauphins FAQ
Where do the swimming lessons take place?
The swimming school is located on the public beach of Bijou Plage.
From what age can children learn to swim at Club des Dauphins?
We teach children from the age of 4.
Can adults also take lessons?
Adults are welcome to improve their skills in private lessons.
What is the difference between group lessons and private lessons?
Private lessons are designed to introduce swimming or focus on a specific point, unlike group lessons, which are intended to cover more distance during a session.
How can I book swimming lessons?
All lessons can be booked through our website.
Do I need to book far in advance?
It is recommended to book as early as possible, starting in April.
Is there a level or medal system for children?
All participants receive a test booklet and can purchase the corresponding medal.
Is sea swimming suitable for beginners and for children who are afraid of water?
The atmosphere in our swimming school is incredible and much better suited than pool teaching, because our lifeguards are always in the water with the student.
Is the teaching individualized?
We offer the choice between private and group lessons.
Is Club des Dauphins accessible to people holidaying in Cannes?
The swimming school is open to everyone.
If my child is sick on the day of the lesson, can I cancel?
Lessons will be rescheduled if a participant is unable to attend the booked lessons, upon presentation of a medical certificate.
In bad weather, are lessons still maintained?
As long as conditions are not dangerous, lessons are maintained, even in rainy weather.
What should my child bring for the lessons?
Participants only need to bring appropriate swimwear; the rest of the equipment is provided by us.
Can parents watch the lessons from the beach?
From the beach, parents can observe how the various lessons take place.
Michel Vachez

A family story

A family story since 1962 :

Michel VACHEZ, the founder of this exceptional swimming school in Cannes in 1962: The story began under the name 'MODERN SWIMMING SCHOOL' and later became 'Le Club des Dauphins' when his son Thierry joined him at the age of 22.

Michel, a pioneer in many fields, was able to instill a desire to learn how to swim through a unique method and pedagogy.
Thank you, Dad, for passing on this method and the passion for teaching, and for welcoming me into this great professional and family adventure.
The club des dauphins

A sea swimming school
from generation to generation in Cannes

The sea swimming school 'Le Club des Dauphins' in Cannes, led by Thierry Vachez, is a unique learning place for children from a very young age. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a method and pedagogy that allows children to progress at their own pace and in complete safety.

At this school, children are introduced to the joys of water from the age of 4. We understand the importance of early swimming education and have developed a playful and progressive method to help children learn to swim while having fun.

Set in a beautiful location, in the heart of the Mediterranean, at Croisette Point in Cannes (Palm Beach area), children are supervised by a team of qualified and passionate professionals. They receive individualized instruction and personalized support to help them progress at their own pace. « AI » Artificial Intelligence, won't be much help. But the « CDD » Club des Dauphins, is here for you in « IRL » (real life).