Cousteau married Simone Melchior, who became an integral part of his life and work. Simone was a skilled diver and actively participated in the Calypso expeditions. She also managed the logistical and financial aspects of Cousteau's operations.

Simone and Jacques Cousteau had their first son, Jean-Michel Cousteau, who would later follow in his father's footsteps as an ocean explorer and conservationist.

Their second son, Philippe Cousteau, was born. Philippe became a skilled pilot, diver, and filmmaker, working alongside his father on many projects. Philippe's early death was a great loss to Cousteau.

Philippe Cousteau died in a plane crash, which deeply affected Jacques Cousteau. Philippe had been an important collaborator and heir apparent in Cousteau's ocean exploration and conservation efforts.

Simone Cousteau passed away after a long illness. She was a vital partner in Jacques's life and work and her death left a big void.

Cousteau married Francine Triplet, with whom he had two children, Diane and Pierre-Yves. This marriage caused some controversy due to its secrecy, since Jacques and Francine had started their relationship and family much earlier.