5 of The Most Mind-Blowing Places to Go Diving in Europe
Steeped in history, cultural diversity, medieval architecture and charming landscapes, Europe is not often thought of as a diving mecca, but arguably, Europe is home to some of the most interesting dive sites in the world. If you’re an avid diver, the pandemic has likely put your dive trip plans on hiatus. If you’ve been thinking about some of the more ‘exotic’ and more popular destinations like the Great Barrier Reef, the Caribbean or the Galapagos, consider ticking off a lesser known but equally epic dive destination. Need some ideas? We thought you would never ask!
Malta
Not only is Malta one of the most underrated destinations to explore on land, but it just so happens to be an amazing spot for Wreck diving. There are a number of sites to explore like the Blenheim Bomber site, a World War II resting 42 metres below the surface approximately 800 metres east of Xrobb I-Ghagin. The cockpit cover has blown off, but the engine and wings are intact. There is also a De Havilland Mosquito, another World War II bomber that was interestingly made mostly of wood.
Orkney, Scotland
If you had to choose a handful of things that Scotland is renown for, diving probably wouldn’t be one of them! A nice peaty glass of Scotch? Yes. Sheep-dotted hills? Absolutely. Wreck diving? I don’t think so! So you might be surprised to know that some of the most incredible wreck diving in the world is off the coast of the Orkney Islands. Pack your best men's travel wallet, and a good dry suit or wet suit, because these waters are challenging. In the Scapa Flow, a natural harbour and one of the most important historical maritime sites. Here you’ll find 7 different Wreck sites to explore. The waters are exceptionally clear, and the sites are a great place for moderately experienced to experienced divers to explore.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a much loved destination for sun and sand seekers, and it’s also home to a fascinating dive site you may not have heard of. The sheer size of the MS Zenobia can be intimidating. Located near Larnaca, the MS Zenobia, a Swedish built car and passenger ferry that launched in 1979 and capsized on her maiden voyage in 1980. Laying on her port side, with various trucks and large pieces of cargo still on deck, this 42 metre dive is undoubtedly one of the most challenging dive sites in Europe.
Portofino, Italy
You could spend a lifetime visiting Italy, and barely scratch the surface, let alone explore the underwater world. The number of activities and side trips you can pack in are endless. One minute you’re shopping for beautiful men’s travel wallets in Rome, the next you’re leaping off a yacht, exploring the stunning Portofino National Park. Towering cliffs and unique rocky formations have created an ideal environment for hundreds of marine life species.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Like Scotland or any diving destination in Northern Europe, having the right diving gear is non-negotiable; these waters are cold! Norway offers diving opportunities for divers of all abilities with plenty of wreck sites to explore, as well as stunning kelp forests, myriad species of marine life, most notably orca whales. The waters here are very clear, so be sure to bring your favourite underwater camera.
Diving is often thought to be a tropical past time when you head out on a beach holiday, and while that’s true, some of the best diving in the world happens to be cold water diving. The great thing about diving in places like Northern Europe is that you’re dealing with less crowds, extremely experienced dive leaders and marine species that you otherwise wouldn’t get to experience on your tropical dives. You'll want to bring your men's travel wallet with you wherever you go while in Europe because there are so many incredible places to shop.