KARL FINSTERWALDE - Bornholm

The Karl Finsterwalde isn't just any wreck, it's a wonderfully peculiar one. This cement barge, sunk deliberately in the 1960s, rests upright in just 8 metres of water, making it a dream for new wreck divers or those just wanting a relaxed dip. We love how the unusual concrete hull has aged; it's a completely different texture to explore compared to steel. Descend onto its flat deck and you'll find a surprising amount to poke around. Cracks in the concrete offer little hideaways for blennies and gobies, while dense patches of kelp sway gently from the superstructure. Our favourite part is navigating the small, open holds, which are now completely colonised by mussels and anemones, creating miniature ecosystems. It’s not about big pelagics here, but rather the quiet beauty of a man-made structure slowly being reclaimed by the sea. Visibility can vary, but generally, when it’s good, the natural light filtering through the kelp forest above is enchanting. It’s a site for contemplation, perfect for photographers keen on macro subjects or divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of a unique, shallow wreck.

Location
Bornholm, Denmark, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.968918, 14.505865
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Best Time to Dive in Bornholm

The warmest water temperatures in Bornholm occur in January, averaging 3.3°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 3.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 3.3°C (air: 3.1°C)
  • February: 3.3°C (air: 3.2°C)
  • March: 3.3°C (air: 3.9°C)
  • April: 3.3°C (air: 6.0°C)
  • May: 3.3°C (air: 10.9°C)
  • June: 3.3°C (air: 16.1°C)
  • July: 3.3°C (air: 17.4°C)
  • August: 3.3°C (air: 18.0°C)
  • September: 3.3°C (air: 15.7°C)
  • October: 3.3°C (air: 11.5°C)
  • November: 3.3°C (air: 7.1°C)
  • December: 3.3°C (air: 3.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Bornholm

Nearest Dive Centres to KARL FINSTERWALDE

Marine Life in Bornholm

Home to 67 recorded species including 43 reef fish, 7 clams & mussels, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 crabs & lobsters, 2 starfish, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for KARL FINSTERWALDE

Based on average water temperature of 3.3°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 3°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories