Diving in North Sea
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover North Sea's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of North Sea, sea. This region features 53 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, North Sea has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in North Sea (5)
Popular Spots in North Sea (53)
Anna Jacoba Polder
Anna Jacoba Polder, located in the Eastern Scheldt, Netherlands, has an average diving depth of 15 meters (50 feet). The site features strong currents that support diverse marine life, including anemones, sponges, shrimps, crabs, and various fish. As it was previously a mussel farm, the underwater structure provides interesting diving experiences.
Bergse Diepsluis
Bergse Diepsluis, also referred to as Oesterdam or Thoolse Gat, is a dive site located within the Oosterschelde National Park. The site is easily accessible from the shore and features minimal current, making it suitable for novice divers. Underneath the platform, divers can observe sea bass, while a large school of pebble fish can be found on the platform itself. Additionally, sightings of sepias and potentially seahorses are possible in this area.
Blinde Dam
Blinde Dam is a unique dive site named for its submerged dam that becomes invisible during high tide. The area is accessed exclusively by boat due to the considerable distance from shore. The dive location is relatively untouched, resulting in a diverse and appealing underwater environment. The site offers a chance to observe various aquatic life in a less frequented area, making it an interesting destination for divers seeking a more pristine experience.
Blokkendam Noordzee zijde
Blokkendam Noordzee zijde is a notable dive site located on the North Sea, characterized by its unique marine life and underwater features. Divers should be cautious as diving is prohibited within the harbor. The site offers opportunities to explore the outer section of the block dam, where divers can encounter various species such as sea dahlias, oysters, sea toads, and butterfish. Additionally, the sandy areas are ideal for searching for sepiola and flatfish. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience the local underwater ecosystem.
Brouwerssluis
Brouwerssluis is a dive site best suited for high water conditions and calm weather. During low tide, the site becomes too deep for safe diving. Divers should be cautious of fishing line remnants and the current direction near the sluice. Marine life includes various anemones, and with some luck, divers may encounter playful seals. The sandy areas may also reveal interesting finds.
Burghsluis
Burghsluis is located at the westernmost point following the Oosterscheldekering. The site is characterized by strong currents, making it essential for divers to have experience in Oosterschelde conditions and to dive during low tide. The underwater environment is rich with diverse marine life, including mud anemones, brittle stars, and sea anemones. Additionally, divers may encounter cuttlefish, blennies, and nudibranchs in this vibrant ecosystem.
Burghsluis Oostbout
Burghsluis Oostbout is a shore dive site located at coordinates 51.674600, 3.758100. Divers should avoid diving during high tide due to the risk of being swept away from the shore by the outgoing current towards the storm surge barrier. The site is characterized by strong currents, which contribute to a rich diversity of marine life, including species such as the dead man's thumb, which is particularly prevalent here. The underwater environment is noted for its abundant flora and fauna, making it an interesting site for experienced divers.
Colijnsplaat Oostnol
Colijnsplaat Oostnol is accessed by crossing the dike and walking to the pier, where divers can enter the water. The dive site features a sandy bottom, making it suitable for observing flatfish, shrimps, and other organisms that inhabit sandy environments. Visibility can be significantly impacted by adverse weather conditions due to the site's location. Divers can swim directly out from the pier towards the open water.
CWTC
CWTC, or Confined Water Training Center, features a training pool measuring 5x5x5 meters. This facility is designed for divers to practice and refine their skills across various levels, including Scuba and eXtended Range. Access to the training pool is not open to the public; prior arrangements must be made to utilize the facility.
De Broezel
De Broezel is located adjacent to Zoetersbout and serves as an alternative dive site when the latter is crowded. The site features a sandy bottom interspersed with oyster banks, providing a different environment compared to the dike revetment. Divers can explore this area throughout the day due to the minimal current. Marine life typical of the Oosterschelde can be observed here, including lobsters, crabs, slugs, and various types of carnations.
De Val
De Val is accessed from the shore, with parking available at a nearby restaurant. Divers must walk a distance to reach the water, ideally entering at the left side of the light pole. The dive site features an overgrown pier that is rich in marine life, including gobies, hermit crabs, shrimps, butterfish, and crabs, which can be found hiding among the overgrown blocks. The shallow areas are particularly noted for their biodiversity, making it a unique spot for exploration.
Dijkval
Dijkval is named after its historical significance, where a dike has frequently experienced breaches. Nearby, the Caissons used for repairs can still be observed. Divers can explore the oyster reef, which is home to various crabs and galetheas that forage among the shells. The sandy areas surrounding the oyster bank exhibit less marine life compared to the reef itself.
Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are home to a significant population of approximately 4,500 grey seals, making them a notable site for marine life observation. Divers can explore various dive sites primarily located around the outer Farnes, which feature both wrecks and reefs. The underwater environment is rich with diverse marine fauna, including sea grasses, corals, tube worms, crabs, lobsters, and various shoaling fish. The entry to these dive sites is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Flaauwers West
Flaauwers West is a shore dive site that requires a lengthy walk to access. The dive offers a sense of isolation, resembling an untouched underwater environment. However, due to the nearby inlet and the angle of the dive, visibility can often be less than ideal. Divers can expect to encounter typical marine life found in the Oosterschelde area.
Flauwers heerenkeet
Flauwers Heerenkeet is accessible by parking at the Heerekeet and the harbour Flowers, followed by a walk to the end of the dam for water entry. The dive site features a variety of environments, including a wreck, stone formations, oyster beds, and sandy areas. Visibility can be reduced during low tide due to silt accumulation in the harbour and inlet. Divers can expect to encounter a range of typical Oosterschelde marine life throughout the dive.
Galjoen Zonder Poen
Galjoen Zonder Poen is a wreck dive located offshore, requiring careful planning due to its distance from the shore. Divers should consider decompression times, making nitrox a suitable choice for this site. It is advisable to dive during low tide to access the wreck, as the depth can be significant; otherwise, divers may encounter a sandy bottom with limited features. In the shallower areas, there is a chance to spot a sepiola resting on the sand, along with a few brittle stars.
Goese Sas
Goese Sas is a dive site located at coordinates 51.540400, 3.930400, accessible from the shore. Diving is recommended only during low tide due to strong currents that can make conditions hazardous at high tide. The underwater terrain between depths of 5 and 20 meters is characterized by a variety of marine life, including oysters, mussels, crabs, lobsters, butterfish, hermit crabs, and toads. Divers should be cautious and plan their dives according to the tidal schedule to ensure safety.
Gorishoek De Punt
Gorishoek De Punt is a dive site with a maximum depth of 40 meters, making it unsuitable for novice divers. Entry is made from the shore at the pier's point. Divers should avoid the left side, which is designated as a no-dive zone. After entering, divers can swim out along the pier and complete a circuit, returning along the opposite side. Caution is advised to stay clear of the shipping lane leading to the harbor. The current can be unpredictable, particularly during high tide, so it is advisable to plan dives for low tide to ensure safer conditions.
Goudzwaard
Goudzwaard is located in the same inlet as Zoetersbout, providing an alternative dive site when the latter is crowded. This shore entry site features a reef primarily composed of oysters, making it an interesting area for exploration. Divers can expect to encounter typical marine life found in the Oosterschelde, including lobsters, crabs, slugs, and various types of sea carnations.
Haven Kats Noord
Haven Kats Noord is accessed from the shore, specifically at the beach near the mouth, where divers should enter the water and proceed diagonally to the left. The site features a diverse underwater landscape with an abundance of blocks and areas of sand. As divers move left, they will encounter more sandy sections. Both the rocky areas and sandy bottom are rich in marine life, including flatfish, crabs, hermit crabs, and shrimps, making it a rewarding dive site.
Haven Kats Zuid
Haven Kats Zuid is accessed from the shore at the right breakwater, where parking is limited. Divers must swim out a short distance to reach depths greater than 10 meters, with the seafloor dropping more steeply to a maximum depth of 25 to 30 meters. Caution is advised to avoid drifting into the harbor mouth. The sandy bottom is home to various flatfish, crabs, and shrimps, while the more vegetated areas host lobsters, North Sea crabs, and nudibranchs. Additionally, divers can observe numerous anemones and sea squirts in this area.
Havenhoofd
Havenhoofd is located at the harbor entrance of Zierikzee, with a shore entry point. The dive site features a long walk to reach the water. It is important to avoid diving in the waterway due to safety regulations. The area has a depth that can reach up to 50 meters, but divers should be aware that post-World War II ammunition was dumped here, making certain sections prohibited for diving. The currents from the harbor contribute to a rich marine environment, where divers may encounter various fish species, as well as the possibility of spotting porpoises or seals in the vicinity.
Katshoek
Katshoek is characterized by its dense vegetation and features a breakwater that becomes visible at low tide. The interior of the breakwater is known for its abundance of crayfish, making it a notable area for those interested in this species. The outer section of the breakwater experiences stronger currents, which may affect diving conditions. The site showcases a variety of marine life typical of the Oosterschelde ecosystem.
Kisternol
Kisternol is accessed via a shore entry, with parking available at Borrendamme on Boerenweg. Divers should prepare for a lengthy walk to reach the dive site. The underwater terrain is characterized by a variety of blocks and oysters. Due to its proximity to the storm surge barrier, divers may encounter strong currents, and the dive turnaround is typically brief. The site is particularly appealing to those interested in crustaceans, as it is home to North Sea crabs, lobsters, spider crabs, and occasionally Galathea crayfish.
Kleine Stelle
Kleine Stelle is a dive site located directly across from the parking lot, where divers can enter the water from the shore. The area features a shallow sandbank, with only about one meter of water at low tide. The dive site extends approximately 100 meters along a wall made up of stones that are well-covered with marine growth, reaching depths of up to 25 meters. It is advisable to dive during high tide for better conditions. The sandy bottom is home to various small flatfish, and divers may also encounter sepiolas. The vegetated slope provides a habitat for a range of marine life, including shrimps and snails.
Koningsheim
Koningsheim is a shallow dive site accessible from either of the two breakwaters. The area in front of the right breakwater features a depth reaching up to 35 meters, with a steep slope leading downwards. Divers should be aware that currents can be strong in this location, and diving is only advisable during high tide. The underwater environment is home to a variety of marine life, including sea bass, mullet, and squid.
Kulkenol
Kulkenol is accessed by parking at the Zeelandbrug and walking approximately one kilometer towards the Zierikzee harbor, reaching the end of the T-shaped breakwater. This area is characterized by a significant current due to the water being redirected towards the shipping channel. The dive site reaches a depth of 35 meters. In the spring, divers can observe a large population of nudibranchs that thrive on the blocks of the breakwater, benefiting from the available food sources.
Lokkersnol
Lokkersnol is a shore dive site located at coordinates 51.648600, 3.885500. Accessing the site requires a considerable walk, although a boat dive option is available. The underwater environment is diverse, showcasing typical marine life found in the Oosterschelde. In the shallower areas, divers can observe various species including wrasses and nudibranchs, contributing to the site's ecological richness.
Nieuwe Sluis - De Tetjes
Nieuwe Sluis - De Tetjes offers a shore entry point located at the beach between the left dam and the dike. Depending on tidal conditions, divers can choose to explore either direction. The underwater terrain slopes down to a depth of approximately 40 meters. The site features a bottom that is primarily sandy with some light vegetation. Notably, brittle stars can be found in this area, often displacing common starfish. The unique shape of the edge can create rotating currents, which may be stronger at times, necessitating caution for divers.
Noordbout
Noordbout is a less frequented dive site compared to its neighbor, Zuidbout. Divers enter the water at the pier and can swim out to explore the area. The maximum depth reaches approximately 20 meters. The underwater landscape is primarily composed of sand and silt, with occasional vegetated blocks. The site is notably less vegetated than Zuidbout, offering a different diving experience. Divers also have the option to swim towards Zuidbout from this location.
Oesterputten
Oesterputten is best accessed during low tide, allowing divers to walk across the old harbour mouth to the entry point at the first breakwater. From this location, divers can proceed straight ahead and then loop to the left. The site experiences strong currents, particularly after decanting, which can enhance the diving experience as you navigate through the underwater bowl. The marine life is diverse, with notable sightings of sizable flatfish and occasional lumpfish during the spring season.
Oude Kademuur van Zierikzee
The Oude Kademuur van Zierikzee is located between the Zeelandbrug and the harbor de Val, specifically at the level of the second pillar. The remains of the old quay wall extend from approximately 3 meters at low tide down to about 20 meters. Access to this dive site is exclusively by boat, as it is not reachable from the shore. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including numerous lobsters, crabs, and nudibranchs, along with schools of fish that inhabit the area among the rocks.
Plaat van Oude Tonge
Plaat van Oude Tonge is accessible exclusively by boat. The dive site features a sandy bottom interspersed with mussel strings, providing a unique underwater landscape. While it may not be the most densely populated area in the Oosterschelde, divers can still encounter a variety of marine life. Caution is advised during windy conditions due to the presence of kitesurfers, and diving on mussel installations is prohibited without permission.
Plompetoren, Koudekerke
Plompetoren is a dive site located near Koudekerke, named after the remaining tower of the village that was lost to the sea. The site features a straightforward navigation path with depth lines extending up to approximately 30 meters, running parallel to the shore. However, divers should be cautious of strong currents and often poor visibility, making this site more suitable for experienced divers. It is recommended to dive during high tide for optimal conditions.
Putti’s Place
Putti's Place is a dive site characterized by its depth, reaching up to 25 meters. The site features a wall that descends steeply, making it a notable location for divers. The area can experience strong currents, and due to the presence of various breakwaters, divers are advised to navigate carefully and maintain a proper compass heading. The most visually appealing sections of the dive are found between 10 and 25 meters. In the spring, divers may encounter cuttlefish in this region.
Quaak
Quaak is located at the end of the Stavernisse area and features a diverse underwater landscape that includes sandy patches, mussel and oyster beds, as well as rocky formations. This site is not recommended for novice divers due to its varying conditions. Divers are encouraged to explore the spaces between the rocks and the beds to observe the rich marine life that thrives in this environment.
REM III (Wreck)
The REM III, formerly known as the Delft, is a wreck located approximately 40 meters from the shore. This vessel was converted by German forces during World War II and was originally equipped with a cannon, which has since been removed and is now displayed in a war museum. The wreck is recognized as the third known REM platform sunk by Allied forces during the conflict.
S.S. Trevier (Wreck)
The S.S. Trevier is a steam cargo ship measuring 100 meters in length. It was transporting 4,200 tons of grain from New York to Rotterdam when it was torpedoed by the German U-boat 23 on April 4, 1917, while near the port of Rotterdam. The wreck is located in the North Sea, where it has suffered significant cracking due to the shallow waters and tidal conditions. Despite this damage, divers can still identify the boiler and driveshaft of the vessel. The site is accessible by boat.
Schelpenhoek Dam
Schelpenhoek Dam is accessible via a parking area near Heerekeet, followed by a lengthy walk to the entry point. Divers can enter the water using a staircase. The site is characterized by strong and sometimes unpredictable currents, making it essential for divers to have prior experience or to be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. Diving from a boat is also an option, providing an alternative way to explore this location.
SMS Cöln, Scapa Flow (Wreck)
The SMS Cöln is located in Scapa Flow, a significant historical site in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, where numerous ships from the Imperial German Navy were scuttled after World War I. This wreck lies at a depth of 36 meters, with the shallowest point reaching 22 meters. The wreck is relatively straightforward to navigate compared to other warships in the area. Divers can access the site by boat.
SMS Markgraf
The SMS Markgraf, a König class battleship of the Imperial German Navy, rests in Scapa Flow at a depth of 45 meters. This 175-meter-long wreck is positioned almost entirely upside down, making it an intriguing dive site for both open-circuit and rebreather divers. The site is recognized for its historical significance, having been scuttled in 1919. Divers can explore the wreck's structure and experience the unique underwater environment it offers.
Stavenisse Oostnol
Stavenisse Oostnol is accessed from the shore at the end of the pier, which requires a walk to reach the entry point. Divers should be cautious of strong currents and the nearby channel where diving is generally prohibited. Once in the water, divers can explore the left side of the pier. The site is known for its diverse marine life, with opportunities to encounter species such as cuttlefish in the spring, as well as eels, flatfish, numerous pipefish, and whelks.
Stoofpolder “Het Licht“
Stoofpolder, also known as 'Het Licht', is located at the end of the Oosterschelde, characterized by minimal current conditions. The site is named after the harbor light present in the area. Divers can observe typical marine life from the Oosterschelde, particularly around anchor points where North Sea crabs are commonly found. Caution is advised when diving, as venturing too far southwest may lead into the shipping channel.
Stormezande
Stormezande is located along the dike of Wemeldingen, with Tetjes to the west and Groene Boei to the east. Accessing the site involves a shore entry, which can be challenging at low tide due to the lengthy walk over the breakwater. At high tide, divers may need to swim a considerable distance before encountering more than just sand. The sandy plains are home to a variety of marine life, including nudibranchs, sepiola, and flatfish. Additionally, divers may come across sepia houses, with a chance of spotting sepia.
Strijenham
Strijenham offers a tranquil diving experience, suitable for both day and night dives. The site is accessible from the shore and is located at coordinates 51.520700, 4.142100. Divers may encounter a moderate current, especially when diving outside of tidal periods. The marine life here is diverse, with potential sightings of species such as cuttlefish and squid, reflecting the rich biodiversity of the Oosterschelde.
Vlietepolder Peilhuisje
Vlietepolder Peilhuisje is a shore dive site located at coordinates 51.597300, 3.752200. The area is influenced by the nearby storm surge barrier, which can create strong currents and a brief tidal turn. Visibility may be lower than at other dive locations due to these conditions. While divers can explore deeper areas, caution is advised as these depths enter the shipping channel, where diving is prohibited. The presence of currents contributes to a diverse range of underwater life compared to more distant sites. Parking facilities are available nearby.
Vuilnisbelt - Tuttelhoek
Vuilnisbelt - Tuttelhoek is characterized by dense vegetation found between depths of 3 to 15 meters. As divers descend past 22-23 meters, the environment shifts to a sandy bottom with reduced plant life. Entry into the water can be challenging, particularly during low tide, and divers should be aware that currents may be stronger at times. The site is abundant in marine life, with crabs and lobsters often found hiding among oysters, blocks, and seaweed.
Wemeldinge Oost-Linda
At Wemeldinge Oost-Linda, divers enter the water from the shore at the end of the pier. The initial part of the dive can be explored on the left side of the pier, which extends underwater. It is important to cross the pier before making a turn, as the current outside can be strong and visibility tends to be low. The underwater terrain primarily consists of silt, which limits the diversity of marine life. However, divers can expect to see various species including shrimps, tube worms, and flatfish.
Wemeldinge Parking, Kattendijke
Wemeldinge Parking, located in Kattendijke, offers diving opportunities during both high and low tides. Divers can enter the water by crossing the road from the parking area. Depending on the tide, divers should head left during ebb tide or right during flood tide. The dive site features a sandy bottom, where divers can encounter various marine life, including brittle stars, flatfish, lobsters, crabs, and occasionally cuttlefish. The site accommodates dives ranging from shallow depths to approximately 40 meters.
Westbout
Westbout is located at the westernmost point of the Schouwen-Duiveland area along the Eastern Scheldt. This site is adjacent to the Oosterscheldekering, which influences the local currents and contributes to a diverse marine ecosystem. Due to its proximity to the security area of the Oosterscheldekering, diving here requires prior approval from Rijkswaterstaat. The site is known for its unique marine life, making it a noteworthy location for divers interested in observing varied aquatic species.
Wissenkerke Westnol
Wissenkerke Westnol is a dive site that can only be accessed during low tide. Divers should be aware that the current can be strong, and visibility may often be poor. The site features shallow oyster banks on its western side, making it essential to prepare a dive plan. Underwater, the site is rich in marine life, particularly noted for its diverse sea anemones, which display colors ranging from white to salmon pink.
Zoetersbout
Zoetersbout is a dive site located in the Oosterschelde, characterized by minimal current, although some current may be experienced at the dike's head. Divers explore an overgrown dike wall, which is home to various marine life including eels, lobsters, and galatheak lobsters. The dive site offers opportunities to observe a range of species such as seahorses, nudibranchs, cuttlefish, sea bass, and snotolf, depending on the time of day during the diving season. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Zuidbout
Zuidbout features a steep wall that descends into deeper waters of the Oosterschelde. At a depth of 12 meters, divers can find a small wreck on the left side of the dam, which is largely overgrown and difficult to identify. The area is characterized by large blocks that are covered with bread and antler sponge, creating numerous hiding spots for crabs, crayfish, and small fish. This site is not recommended for beginner divers due to its conditions.