Dependent on the Arctic Ocean, the White Sea, located in the northeast of Russia and near Finland, is the only body of salt water to freeze completely in winter. A completely frozen adventure is now offered to you there: with the dive center Arctic circle diving, set out to discover a unique underwater world, undoubtedly entirely different from anything you know! (read the full report on cold waters in issue 7 of Plongez!, available at newsstands on January 5, 2017).
AccommodationOnce you get off the plane in Kuusamo, Finland, the adventure begins… The journey from Kuusamo to Chupa, where the dive center is located, is long (several hours), but the landscapes along the way are enchanting. Upon arrival, you can settle into the lodge in wooden chalets amid the taiga. Then head to the dive sites aboard snowmobiles. Heated wooden cabins on skis carry all the equipment (dry suits, cold-adapted regulators, etc.) to prevent freezing. These same cabins also serve as dining and relaxation areas between the two dives of the day. And for relaxation and comfort, you’re well-served with the banya (Russian hot steam bath) followed by a cold shower. Nature is ever-present, and the clear sky allows for stargazing and observing the northern lights.
The DivesThe White Sea is one of the best places in the world for ice diving due to the incredible richness of its marine life and also thanks to the presence of belugas, the famous white whales. But before diving, you have to break the ice! And everyone participates in cutting out a hole that the Russians call a ‘maina.’ Then, it’s the plunge under the ice. You will quickly realize that unlike the pristine landscapes completely covered in snow on land, underwater is an explosion of life, light, and colors. Soft corals, multi-colored nudibranchs, anemones, numerous crustaceans, starfish, wolffish, and belugas meet you there.
In Practice
Best time to visit : mid-February to mid-April.Time Difference : +1 hour in summer and +2 hours in winter.Temperatures : water temperature is -1 °C to -2 °C, and air temperature is +5° to -30 °C.Minimum level required : starting from level 2 (Padi Advanced Open Water Diver) with experience in a dry suit and a Padi Ice Diving certificate, but ice diving training is also possible on site.Formalities : valid passport, visa required.Prices : from 2544 € including tax for an 8-night stay. What is included in the price of the stay: the Paris-Kuusamo (Finland) flight with Finnair, round-trip transfer from Kuusamo to the dive center Arctic circle dive center, 6 nights at the Arctic circle diving lodge with full board and a 10-dive package. What is not included in the price of the stay: if you travel alone, you will need to pay an additional fee on site for your transfer from the airport to the dive center.For more information on this trip and prices : contact the agency Ultramarina.
Morgane CONSTANTIN
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