SCHWANECK - Bornholm

The Schwanbeck, a German steamer sunk by a mine in 1941, rests at a very manageable 13 metres off Bornholm. This 93-metre vessel, built in 1939, is surprisingly intact for its age and the manner of its demise. We’ve found the stern section particularly photogenic, with the triple-expansion engines and turbine still visible through the gloom. It’s a classic wreck dive, attracting plenty of cod and flatfish, often tucked into the holds or along the deck. The visibility here can be temperamental, as is often the case in the Baltic, but on a good day, exploring the Schwanbeck’s structure is a genuinely atmospheric experience, suitable for most open water divers comfortable with a wreck.

Location
Bornholm, Denmark, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.125057, 14.962750
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

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 SCHWANECK

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 SCHWANECK

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at the SCHWANECK dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the SCHWANECK dive site is 13 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater structures can divers expect to see when diving at SCHWANECK?
Divers at SCHWANECK can expect to explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 93m x 13.4m. This non-dangerous wreck, sunk in 1941, offers a fascinating underwater structure to discover. The provided data does not specify particular marine life, but wrecks often attract various species over time.
How difficult is diving at SCHWANECK, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at SCHWANECK is classified as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the best months or seasons to go diving at SCHWANECK for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for optimal diving conditions at SCHWANECK. For up-to-date information on seasonal conditions, we recommend checking local dive operator reports or our When to Dive guide for the Denmark region.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at SCHWANECK?
Given the SCHWANECK dive site's intermediate difficulty, divers should hold certifications appropriate for such conditions, likely including advanced open water or wreck diving specialties. While specific certifications aren't listed, adequate training and experience for intermediate wreck dives are highly recommended. Always consult with a local dive center for precise requirements.
What are the typical current, visibility, and water temperature conditions at the SCHWANECK dive site?
The available data for the SCHWANECK dive site does not include specific details on typical current, visibility, or water temperature conditions. These factors can vary significantly, so it's always best to check with local dive operators in Bornholm, Denmark for the most current information before planning your dive.