Dive sites in Poland

The waters around Hel Peninsula contain numerous WWII wrecks from the intense naval operations that took place in the Bay of Gdansk during 1939 and 1945. Notable sites include German minesweepers, patrol boats, and transport vessels, as well as several Polish naval craft. Some of the most popular dives are on smaller escort vessels at 20 to 25 metres depth where gun mounts and deck equipment remain clearly visible. The deeper wrecks at 28 to 32 metres include larger transport vessels with accessible interior spaces. Not all wrecks have been positively identified and historical research continues.

Several dive centres operate in the Hel and Jastarnia area along the peninsula, offering wreck diving charters during the summer season from June through September. Most trips depart from Hel harbour and reach the wreck sites in 15 to 30 minutes. Advance booking is essential as trips depend on weather conditions and group sizes are limited. The larger dive centres in the Tri-City area of Gdansk, Gdynia, and Sopot also run excursions to Hel Peninsula wrecks. A minimum of advanced open water certification is required.

A drysuit is the standard for Hel Peninsula wreck diving, as water temperatures at depth range from 3 to 8 degrees Celsius even in summer, despite surface temperatures reaching 16 to 19 degrees. The thermocline is often dramatic and can drop temperature by 10 degrees within a few metres. A hood, dry gloves, and appropriate undergarments are essential. Some experienced divers use thick semi-dry suits during peak summer but drysuits are strongly recommended for the deeper wreck sites.

Koparki features several deliberately placed underwater attractions including a bus, a car, a small boat, and various training platforms at different depths. These objects have been sunk by local dive clubs to create interesting dive routes and provide reference points for navigation exercises. Over the years, the objects have become partially colonized by freshwater organisms, adding a natural element to the artificial attractions.

Koparki is one of Poland's most popular sites for dive training. The quarry offers controlled conditions with no currents, predictable depths, and easy shore entry via constructed access points. Training platforms at 5, 10, and 20 meters provide convenient references for skill exercises. Many Polish dive schools use Koparki for Open Water and Advanced Open Water certification dives, and the deeper sections accommodate technical diving training.