Jacques-Yves Cousteau was born in the small town of Saint-André-de-Cubzac, near Bordeaux, France, to Daniel and Elisabeth Cousteau. His early childhood was marked by a bout of chronic enteritis, which kept him frail and thin. Doctors advised against strenuous activities. This early health challenge ironically contributed to his resourcefulness and determination to overcome obstacles.

As a young boy, Cousteau developed a keen interest in mechanics and machinery. He enjoyed tinkering with engines and building models. This mechanical aptitude would later prove invaluable in his development of underwater equipment. He also had a growing fascination with water, inspired by summers spent on the French coast.