HERRENWYK - North Sea Coast

Herrenwyk is a wreck we always enjoy, even if it’s a site that often gets overlooked. Dropping down to 14 metres, you’re greeted by the imposing bulk of a steamship, sunk back in 1942. It was originally the Swedish Martii Ragnar, a grand old girl built in 1912, then seized by the Germans before she hit a mine in Kiel Bay. We love tracing the deck, imagining her former glory. The wreck itself is home to so many critters, even without a species list to pull from. Expect to find conger eels peering from dark corners, and schools of cod often drift lazily above the superstructure. On a good visibility day, which can be hit or miss in the North Sea, the sheer scale of the 110-metre length is impressive, making for a proper exploration. Our favourite part is navigating the cargo holds, where sunlight, when it breaks through, creates an ethereal glow. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and the way the sea reclaims its own, offering a rewarding experience for divers comfortable with wreck penetration.

Location
North Sea Coast, Denmark, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.518536, 10.519431
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m

Marine Protected Area: Marstal Bugt og den sydlige del af Langeland

Best Time to Dive in North Sea Coast

The warmest water temperatures in North Sea Coast occur in January, averaging 4.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 4.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 4.6°C (air: 3.3°C)
  • February: 4.6°C (air: 3.6°C)
  • March: 4.6°C (air: 4.1°C)
  • April: 4.6°C (air: 6.7°C)
  • May: 4.6°C (air: 11.2°C)
  • June: 4.6°C (air: 15.4°C)
  • July: 4.6°C (air: 16.2°C)
  • August: 4.6°C (air: 16.7°C)
  • September: 4.6°C (air: 14.7°C)
  • October: 4.6°C (air: 10.8°C)
  • November: 4.6°C (air: 6.9°C)
  • December: 4.6°C (air: 3.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in North Sea Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HERRENWYK

Marine Life in North Sea Coast

Home to 105 recorded species including 55 reef fish, 9 crabs & lobsters, 8 other, 7 clams & mussels, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for HERRENWYK

Based on average water temperature of 4.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 5°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 typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the Herrenwyk dive site?
The Herrenwyk dive site offers a typical maximum depth of 14 meters, making it an accessible and enjoyable dive for many recreational divers. This depth allows for good bottom time and exploration of the wreck. You can find more details about this site on its dedicated Herrenwyk dive site page.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Herrenwyk?
Divers at Herrenwyk will primarily explore the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, which was sunk in 1942. This significant wreck measures 110 meters by 15.2 meters, providing a substantial structure for exploration. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. For general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Herrenwyk, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Herrenwyk is classified as intermediate difficulty. It is also designated as a "Dangerous wreck," which suggests it may not be suitable for beginner divers without proper guidance and experience. Divers should possess the necessary skills and training to safely navigate a wreck of this classification.
What is the best time of year to dive at Herrenwyk for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions and visibility at Herrenwyk is not available in the provided data. We recommend consulting local dive operators in Denmark's North Sea Coast for up-to-date local insights. For general advice on planning your dives, you can visit our when to dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Herrenwyk?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly listed for Herrenwyk, its classification as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck" dive site implies that divers should have appropriate training and experience. A wreck diving specialty certification or advanced open water certification is generally recommended for such sites to ensure safety and enjoyment.
What are the usual current and water conditions like at the Herrenwyk dive site?
The provided data does not contain specific information about the usual current or water conditions, such as temperature or visibility, at the Herrenwyk dive site. For the most current and accurate details on these conditions, it is always best to contact local dive centers or guides operating in the Denmark region.