Diving in the fjords
Craving an unforgettable dive? Norway, with its 2,650 km of coastline and hundreds of fjords, is the dream destination for divers seeking freshness and novelty. Rich in impressive dive spots, this Scandinavian country will not disappoint you. Here, immersion is a true spectacle:
- Orcas in Lofoten : From November to February, swim with orcas using fins, mask, and snorkel.
- Historical wrecks : Dive on wrecks like the Frankenwald in Gulen, the Konsul Carl Fisser in Alesund, or the U-711 submarine.
- Sunken village : Explore the ruins of an ancient village in Lake Lyngnstøylvatnet.
For experienced divers, Saltstraumen offers formidable currents with guaranteed thrills.
Majestic nature
Norway is not limited to its seabed. Its landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful. Enjoy the majestic mountains, colorful houses, and impressive lights like the northern lights.
Practical information
- Time difference : None
- Water temperature : 13 to 18 °C in summer, 2 °C in winter
- Ideal season : All year round
- Equipment : Dry suit
- Diving level : Beginner to advanced
- Budget : 8-night cruise from €4,037 (flights, full board, and dives included)
- Operators : Ultramarina, H2O Voyage, Subocea
Italy and its marine wonders
Italy’s beaches and islands offer a true haven for diving enthusiasts. Start your adventure at Portofino, a charming fishing village where the marine reserve awaits you.
Experiences not to be missed
- Elba Island : Dive on its magnificent drop-offs and explore wrecks like the Elviscot, accessible to beginners.
- Sardinia : Dive in the crystal-clear waters around Tavolara, where you’ll discover magnificent groupers in the Pape Sèche.
- Sicily : Visit Ustica, famous for its caves and volcanic rock offering incredible biodiversity.
Cultural discovery
Each island in Italy is a postcard landscape, with colorful villages, rugged coasts, and Mediterranean cuisine to savor.
Practical information
- Time difference : None
- Water temperature : 15 °C in winter, 23 °C in summer
- Ideal season : From April to October
- Equipment : 5 mm wetsuit
- Diving level : Beginner to advanced
- Budget : Dive trip to Ustica for 6 nights starting at €890 (flights, breakfasts, and dive package included)
- Operators : Spots d’Évasion, Aquarev, Ultramarina, C6Bo
Diving in Scotland: legends beneath the waters
Scotland fascinates with its wild nature and legends. But among its landscapes lie dive sites rich in history, like Scapa Flow, famous for its World War I wrecks.
Must-see sites
- HMS Royal Oak : Explore this protected wreck, or discover wrecks like Thesis and Hispania in the Strait of Mull.
- Marine life : Encounter colorful anemones, seals, and even basking sharks during snorkeling sessions.
Culture and history
Don’t miss visiting Edinburgh, with its castle and whisky distilleries to discover the local culture.
Practical information
- Time difference : – 1 hour
- Water temperature : On average 26 °C all year round
- Ideal season : From October to March
- Equipment : 3 mm wetsuit
- Diving level : Beginner to advanced
- Budget : 7-night stay starting at €1,490 (flights, breakfast, and 10 dives included)
- Operators : H2O Voyage
Professional selections
Getaway to the Canary Islands
Lara, from the Awateha agency, offers you a trip to Lanzarote, renowned for its wild landscapes and beaches. Dives are conducted in clear water, with rich biodiversity including seahorses and groupers.
Budget : 7-night stay (flights and 12 dives included) starting at €1,250. Contact: lara@awateha.com
Travel to Spain
Edith, from the Oceanes agency, offers a getaway to the Costa Brava. Cap de Creus is an ideal place to dive with varied landscapes.
Budget : Stay (full board and 4 or 10 dives included) from €205 for 2 nights and €605 for 7 nights. More information at oceanes.com.
GPS coordinates
- Norway : 62°29’31” N – 006°09’13” E
- Italy : 38°42’37” N – 013°11’30” E
- Scotland : 59°00’47” N – 003°13’52” W
- Lanzarote : 29°00’46” N – 013°38’02” W
- Spain : 42°15’07” N – 003°13’38” E
This article, initially written by Margot Harty for the print edition of PLONGEZ!, was adapted for the web.
opening image © Margot Harty