Diving in Sweden
Including Djupvik Wrecks, Gullmarsfjorden, and Kullaberg Peninsula. On the map.
The vibe
Diving in Sweden offers a cool‑water adventure among shipwrecks and post‑glacial formations, a stark contrast to warm tropical sites. The dive season runs from late spring to early autumn when water temperatures are tolerable and daylight stretches long. You’ll typically book through a local dive centre that takes care of the required park pass, resulting in a structured yet intimate outing.
you need a dive‑centre certification and park pass
Djupvik Wrecks, Gotland
Gotland County
Bene Riobó / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The island of Gotland serves as a central hub for Baltic wreck diving, featuring a high concentration of historical ships. Divers can explore various wrecks ranging from merchant vessels to military ships in the clear, cold waters surrounding the island.
Access. Dive boats operate out of Visby and other coastal towns; advanced wreck diving certification is recommended.
Notes. Visibility can exceed 10m; water temperatures remain low year-round, requiring drysuit proficiency.
Gullmarsfjorden
Västra Götaland County
W.carter / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As Sweden's only true threshold fjord, Gullmarsfjorden provides a unique marine environment with deep-water species found in shallower depths. The site is famous for its 'wall' sections and rich biodiversity, including sponges, anemones, and cold-water corals.
Access. Easily accessible from Lysekil, which serves as a major hub for Swedish diving with numerous dive centers and boat support.
Notes. The fjord is a protected marine area; depth reaches over 100m, but recreational diving is typically limited to 30-40m.
Kullaberg Peninsula
Skåne County
Guillaume Baviere from Uppsala, Sweden / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
This dramatic coastal reserve offers rugged underwater topography with steep rocky slopes and deep crevices. It is a popular spot for observing diverse marine species and exploring the unique geological formations of the Skåne coastline.
Access. Shore diving is possible from Mölle, or via local boat operators; suitable for intermediate divers comfortable with rocky entries.
Notes. Depth ranges from 5m to 30m; currents can be strong around the tip of the peninsula.
Stockholm Archipelago Wrecks
Stockholm County
Bengt Nyman / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
The Baltic Sea is a world-renowned graveyard for remarkably preserved wooden shipwrecks due to the absence of shipworms. Divers explore centuries-old vessels in cold, brackish water that offers a unique glimpse into maritime history.
Access. Accessible via dive centers based in Stockholm or Dalarö; drysuit certification is mandatory due to low water temperatures.
Notes. Depth varies from 10m to 40m; visibility is generally good but requires high-intensity lighting; seasonality is May to October.
Väderöarna (Weather Islands)
Västra Götaland County
Lars Reidar / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Located off the west coast, these islands offer Sweden's best marine life, featuring rocky reefs, kelp forests, and vibrant soft corals. The area is known for its clear, salty Atlantic water and abundance of lobsters and colorful nudibranchs.
Access. Boat charters depart from Fjällbacka or Hamburgsund; suitable for all levels, though currents can be present.
Notes. Best diving is from June to September; water temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C.