HMS Myrtle - Baltic Coast

The HMS Myrtle isn't just a hunk of metal on the seabed, it’s a portal to a very specific moment in history. We love that it's a real piece of the post-WWI Baltic scramble, a sloop sunk by a mine in 1919 while operating against Bolshevik forces. Dropping down to 33 metres, you immediately get a sense of its scale. At 81.7 metres long, the wreck is broken in two, but both sections are still impressive. We usually start our dive exploring the stern, where the gun mount is a clear reminder of its purpose. The triple-expansion engines, despite over a century underwater, are remarkably intact and make for a fascinating swim-through – just watch your buoyancy. The hold is also accessible, dark and silty, but worth a quick peek for the adventurous. Visibility here can vary, but on a good day, the light filtering through the broken hull sections is genuinely atmospheric. Despite the cold, the sheer sense of history makes it one of our favourites in the Baltic, particularly for those who appreciate wrecks with a story. Look for the small cod and blennies that have made this artificial reef their home; they add a splash of life to the steel.

Location
Baltic Coast, Sweden, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.589170, 21.769333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
33m

Best Time to Dive in Baltic Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Baltic Coast occur in January, averaging 0.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 0.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 0.6°C (air: -0.4°C)
  • February: 0.6°C (air: -0.3°C)
  • March: 0.6°C (air: 1.7°C)
  • April: 0.6°C (air: 4.6°C)
  • May: 0.6°C (air: 10.5°C)
  • June: 0.6°C (air: 17.2°C)
  • July: 0.6°C (air: 17.8°C)
  • August: 0.6°C (air: 17.3°C)
  • September: 0.6°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • October: 0.6°C (air: 8.5°C)
  • November: 0.6°C (air: 3.8°C)
  • December: 0.6°C (air: -0.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Baltic Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS Myrtle

Marine Life in Baltic Coast

Home to 59 recorded species including 31 reef fish, 9 seagrass & algae, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 other, 3 whales & dolphins, 3 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for HMS Myrtle

Based on average water temperature of 0.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 1°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 depth range for diving the HMS Myrtle wreck?
The HMS Myrtle wreck is found at a depth of 33 meters. This makes it an exciting dive for those comfortable with deeper wreck explorations.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the HMS Myrtle dive site?
Divers exploring the HMS Myrtle can expect to encounter a significant wreck, measuring 81.7m x 10.4m, which was a sloop vessel built in 1915. Notable features include its triple expansion engines, two 4.7in guns, and two 3pdr guns, all part of a vessel that was mined and broke in two. This non-dangerous wreck offers a fascinating historical dive experience.
How challenging is the HMS Myrtle as a dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The HMS Myrtle is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. Given its depth of 33 meters, it is not typically suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for deeper wreck dives.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the HMS Myrtle for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving the HMS Myrtle or information regarding optimal conditions and marine life encounters. For general guidance on dive seasons, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive the HMS Myrtle?
Given the HMS Myrtle is an intermediate dive site with a depth of 33 meters, advanced open water certification and potentially a wreck diving specialty are typically recommended. Divers should ensure they are adequately trained and experienced for deep wreck explorations.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the HMS Myrtle dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details on the usual current conditions or visibility at the HMS Myrtle dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on site conditions.