NORDFJELL - Lofoten Islands

Nordfjell in Lofoten is a moody dive, proper northern waters stuff, and one of our favourite wreck dives in Norway. The MV Nordfjell is a stout 55-meter motor vessel that came to grief in 1972, beached in bad weather, then capsized and flooded. Today, she rests upside down, but the ship’s profile is still remarkably intact. Swimming down the length of the hull, you can almost feel the chill of that winter storm. The main draw here is exploring the ship’s structure. We love finning along the keel, then dropping to peer under the twisted metal where the bow and stern once sat upright. The light can be dim, even on a sunny day, adding to the atmosphere. It’s a fantastic home for wolfish, who we often spot peeking out from under plates of steel. Look out for the nudibranchs too, some surprisingly colourful against the dark metal. We’d suggest diving this one on a calm day; the exposure to the weather can make for a choppy ride out. It’s a site that rewards careful exploration rather than speed, great for those who enjoy a bit of history with their diving.

Location
Lofoten Islands, Norway, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
68.116670, 13.583333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Æsholman

Nearby Dive Sites in Lofoten Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to NORDFJELL

Marine Life in Lofoten Islands

Home to 17 recorded species including 12 reef fish, 3 sharks & rays, 1 crabs & lobsters, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Nordfjell, and are there any specific areas that require advanced depth certifications?
The Nordfjell dive site is noted for its exceptionally shallow depth, with the wreck starting at 0m. Given this shallow profile, advanced depth certifications are not required for diving this site. Divers can explore the wreck of this 55.5m x 11m motor vessel without concerns about deep diving.
What kind of unique marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Nordfjell dive site?
At the Nordfjell dive site, divers can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a sunken motor vessel. This 55.5m x 11m wreck, which capsized and filled with water in 1972, offers a unique opportunity to witness a historical maritime artifact. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, the wreck itself provides a fascinating habitat for local species.
How challenging is diving at Nordfjell, considering factors like entry/exit points and overall physical demands?
Diving at Nordfjell is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while it's not suitable for absolute beginners, experienced divers will find it manageable. The site offers a rewarding experience for those with some prior diving experience.
What is the best time of year to dive Nordfjell for optimal visibility and chances to see specific marine species?
The provided data for the Nordfjell dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or for observing particular marine species. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Norway region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended for Nordfjell, especially regarding dry suit experience?
While specific certification requirements for Nordfjell are not detailed, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that divers should possess at least an Open Water certification. There is no explicit mention of dry suit experience being required in the provided data. Divers should always ensure they are comfortable with the conditions of the Norway region.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility at Nordfjell, and how do they impact the diving experience?
The provided data for the Nordfjell dive site does not include information on typical current conditions or water visibility. Therefore, we cannot detail how these factors might impact the diving experience. Divers planning a trip to the Lofoten Islands should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.