Explore Selsey

Selsey, a charming seaside town on the Sussex coast, offers an enchanting diving experience that caters to divers of all levels. Its proximity to numerous dive sites makes it a convenient and rewarding destination. Among these is the popular Mixon Hole, a shallow dive spot ranging from 6–12 meters/20–39 feet, ideal for beginners wanting to explore the vibrant underwater landscape. More experienced divers can venture to sites like the Outer Mulberry Harbour and the Briggita, a shipwreck resting at 16 meters/52 feet, each providing unique glimpses into marine history and biodiversity. For divers seeking more thrilling depths, Selsey offers the Patch Landing Craft, an intriguing upside-down wreck at 18 meters/59 feet, and further out at 16 kilometers/10 miles, three notable wrecks await: the Hedwig Lunstedt, HMS Prince Leopold, and War Helmet, all resting approximately 30 meters/98 feet deep. These sites are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish and intriguing invertebrates. Whether diving from the shore or embarking on a boat adventure, Selsey's waters promise an engaging and memorable experience, rich in history and natural beauty.

Courses and Events

Snorkel Diver

The SSI Snorkel Diver program is the first step towards discovering the underwater world, by learning how to snorkel you will develop your confidence in the water, preparing you to go snorkeling and explore the mesmerizing landscapes and marine life of the ocean. You do not need to be a proficient swimmer to participate in the Snorkel Diver program and there is no minimum age to join in. You just need to be comfortable in the water, able to maintain your buoyancy and ready to begin the adventure of a lifetime! We will introduce you to the equipment and skills you need to plan and go snorkelling safely. Our courses are sea based but pool based options are available so please ask. Join us and earn your SSI Snorkel Diver recognition card today!

21 February +1 More
EUR 172.18
GBP 150.00

Basic Freediver

The SSI Basic Freediver course is your first step into the peaceful, exhilarating world of freediving. During this entry-level program, you will learn how to freedive safely with a buddy in a pool/confined water up to a depth of five meters. If you want to start exploring under the water this foundation course will build your breath hold skills and techniques so that you can explore in comfort and safety. At Mulberry Marine Experiences your course will begin with online study which is supported by academic, equipment and planning workshops and in water sessions to put theory into practice. Interested read more on the website by clicking the link, sign up and ear your SS Basic Freediver.

22 February +1 More
EUR 223.83
GBP 195.00

Dive Activity

Diving in Selsey

Selsey, a charming coastal town in England, is a haven for divers seeking diverse underwater experiences. Notable wreck dives include the SS Farallon and the Mulberry Harbour, each offering fascinating glimpses into history amidst thriving marine life. The multitude of dive sites ensures plenty of options for both novice and seasoned divers.

Popular shore dives like the Selsey Lifeboat Station provide accessible adventures with sightings of seahorses and cuttlefish. Unique experiences such as night dives reveal the intriguing nocturnal behaviors of local marine species. Selsey offers a perfect balance between shore and liveaboard diving options, catering to varied dive preferences with ease.

Top Wildlife Sightings in Selsey

Selsey, located on the south coast of England, offers a fascinating glimpse into marine life for divers. The area is known for its diverse underwater habitats, including rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. Common reef fish such as wrasse, pollock, and blennies are frequently encountered, making every dive an opportunity to observe vibrant marine life. Seasonal highlights include the occasional sighting of rays gliding gracefully through the water, particularly in the warmer months. While sharks and turtles are rarer, sightings are not impossible, especially in late summer when warmer currents bring a variety of migratory species closer to shore. Divers should remain vigilant and respectful, as encounters with these remarkable creatures are always a thrilling experience.

Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 600

iStock/ultramarinfoto

Wrasse
52 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
1
M
6
J
2
J
23
A
14
S
6
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 7000

iStock-Michael Zeigler

Crab
134 Sightings
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0
F
0
M
0
A
2
M
13
J
27
J
46
A
34
S
11
O
0
N
0
D
1

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 190

Alamy-Water Frame

Conger Eel
19 Sightings
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0
F
0
M
0
A
1
M
1
J
9
J
3
A
2
S
3
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 130

iStock-Christian von Mach

Pipefish
13 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
0
J
8
A
4
S
1
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 55

k

Lobster
10 Sightings
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0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
3
J
4
A
2
S
1
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 3400

Shutterstock-Shane Gross

Shrimp
9 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
3
J
3
A
2
S
1
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 250

Alamy-Nature Photographers Ltd

Skate Fish
9 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
1
M
1
J
1
J
3
A
0
S
3
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 2

k

Pollock
9 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
1
J
6
A
2
S
0
O
0
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 120

SSI-Peter-Schinck

Cuttlefish
7 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
5
J
1
A
0
S
1
O
0
N
0
D
0

The best Months to dive in Selsey

Selsey, located on the south coast of England, offers year-round diving opportunities, though conditions vary with the seasons. In summer, water temperatures range from 15°C–18°C/59°F–64°F, while winter sees a drop to around 7°C–10°C/45°F–50°F. Visibility generally ranges from 3 to 8 meters/10 to 26 feet, affected by tides and currents.

Diving in Selsey is possible throughout the year, but the most favorable conditions occur in late spring and early autumn. Winter months can present challenges due to colder temperatures and reduced visibility. Winds and currents are significant factors, with wind direction impacting sea conditions and currents influencing dive planning. Overall, divers should monitor local forecasts and plan accordingly to enjoy Selsey's underwater attractions safely.

Dive Centers

Mulberry Marine Experiences

Suite 2, Unit 16 Sherrington Mews, PO20 0FJ Selsey, West Sussex, GBR

Dive Sites

Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Mixon Hole (★4.4)

Known for the vertical drop over the northern lip edge in particular, the Mixon Hole sits within the Selsey Bill & the Hounds MCZ. Maximum depth is 27m with the top ledge at 6m meaning that this is a true multi-level dive - use EANx32 to help you enjoy this the most.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Selsey Lifeboat Station (★4.0)

Excellent shore dive that can provide a variety of experiences; most people dive on / near Slack water (HW-4 or HW+3, times impacted by Tide) and can also be a drift dive on either flood or ebb tides; suitable for night diving - use Surface Marker Buoy at all times due to Lifeboat / Fishing boat traffic.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Arena Swimming Pool (★4.6)

Arena Swimming Pool (Bognor Regis) is used by Mulberry Divers principally for Freediving Training on Saturday afternoons throughout the year. We are able to utilise the whole 25m pool so it excellent for practising all aspects of Freediving.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Nab Tower (★3.5)

The Nab Tower was a tower planned for anti-submarine protection in the Solent in World War I. It was sunk over the Nab rocks east of the Isle of Wight to replace a lightship after the war, and is a well-known landmark for sailors as it marks the deep-water eastern entry into the Solent. Max depth about 20m.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Shirala (★4.0)

This is a very accessible wreck in 24m. Shirala was torpedoed in July 1918 and sank just off the North East end of the Owers, 8 miles from Selsey.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Selsey East Beach (★4.1)

Shallow site suited to Snorkelling and Freediving as well as Scuba; max depth likely to be about 5m at HW when Ebb current will be quite strong. Good point for starting Drift dive along beach to the Lifeboat Station. Be aware of boat traffic around the wooden Ramp - always use a Surface Marker Buoy.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Far Mulberry (★4.2)

Designated as a Scheduled Monument in 2019, this is a Phoenix A1 Unit from the Mulberry Harbour destined for Normandy after D-Day. Nearby are a Landing Craft and a Cuckoo Rescue craft all linked by rope to form a triangular Trail. Max depth is about 10m and suitable for all levels from beginner to experienced.
Mulberry Divers Ltd, PO20 0NS Selsey, West Sussex

Inner Mulberry (★4.4)

This is a small Mulberry Harbour component, thought to have been an Intermediate Pier head Pontoon used a rest place. Clearly marked by a tall red can buoy, it dries at Low Water.
Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

UB1195 (★1.0)

U-1195 was a German submarine Type VIIC. She was sunk on the 7th April 1945 in the English Channel by depth charges from the British destroyer HMS Watchman. Sits upright in 30m with the Conning Tower separated at the pressure hull and leaning sideways. Starting to show signs of deterioration.
Mares, Janez Kranjc

Hedwig Lunstedt (★0.0)

This small german ship sank in January 1974 after her cargo shifted. Lying on her Starboard side, she is 9 miles out with max depth around 35m+ in the scour. Visibility can be 10m+ and is one excellent multi-level dive with the top at about 23m.
Mares, Janez Kranjc

Gascony (★3.0)

Torpedoed by UC-75 on 6 january 1918, the Gascony lies in 27m on the edge of the Owers. Upside down after sinking and with subsequent deterioration, navigation around the wreck needs acre - it is possible to see the wheels of army gun carriages which was part of the cargo for the British Army.
Aqualung

HMS Northcoates (★4.0)

Often called the “Armed Trawler’, HMS Northcoates lies in 27m some 9 miles from Selsey. Always a popular dive, the degaussing equipment fitted for her minesweeper role is still visible together with the prominent forecastle gun.
Mares

T'pot (★2.7)

known as the T’Pot wreck in honour of a teapot found on it, aka Brigitta, this armed merchant vessel was mined on 4th December 1917 whilst in transit from Barry to Dieppe. Today lies in 20m, in three parts: upside down stern, boilers and midships/bow.
Mares

Fossil Beds (★4.0)

Bracklesham Bay contains clay sediments deposited 46 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. These clay beds are now being eroded resulting in significant quantities of fossilised shark and ray teeth being exposed. This simple Drift Dive will give you a chance to find some Fossils.
Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Selsey Drift (the Parks) (★3.7)

The Selsey Drift takes place within an area that appears on Charts as ’The Parks’, said to be the Bishop Of Chichester’s Deer Park many years ago. Tidal flow dictates the start point with an average depth of 10-12m and minimal obstructions these dives are suitable for all. Surface Marker Buoys required throughout.