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Norway offers some of the
cleanest and clearest waters in Europe. Continuous
coastal currents bring nutrient rich Atlantic waters into the
fjords and coastal areas, creating an extremely rich and diverse
marine environment. Diving in Norway means seeing a vast array of
marine life, and many types of underwater topography. The cold
water here supports a unique ecosystem, as cool seas are the most
productive. In addition, Norway is home to the world's largest cold
water coral reef.
Diving experiences in Norway include
walls, reefs, and current dives. Perhaps the some of the best dives
are the wrecks, providing both an artificial reef for sea life as
well as a snapshot of history. Along with an extensive marine
history due to the coastal fishing traditions, during WWII Norway
was occupied by the Germans, and many important battles took place
in Norwegian waters. The wrecks can be in fantastic condition due
to the cold water, protected from heavy seas by the islands and
fjords, and the Norwegian policy of leaving wrecks undisturbed have
left many of them with interesting artifacts.
Due to the moderate coastal climate,
winter can be one of the best times to dive in Norway, since the
visibility is outstanding. There are very few places in the world
that one can ski and dive on the same holiday. From the dive boat
you can experience the marine environment from both above and below
the water, seeing white-tailed eagles, puffins and many other bird
species. In addition, the Orca whales follow the herring into the
fjords in the winter, and a dive trip can include contact with
these amazing creatures.
Many centers in Norway have active dive
clubs with good boats and compressors available, and professional
dive operations can offer guided dives, equipment and merchandise.
Norway is fast becoming one of the premier cold water dive
destinations in the world.
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