Selsey
There are numerous dive sites in Selsey both close to shore and further out so it can accommodate many levels of divers.
Explore South East of England
Diving in South East England offers a unique experience, characterized by its distinctive marine environments and rich biodiversity. Along the coastline of Sussex and Kent, divers are treated to a varied underwater landscape, from the dramatic chalk cliffs to expansive sandy beaches. These areas are dotted with Marine Conservation Zones, designed to protect the region's unique sea life and topography. Underwater explorers can relish the chance to encounter seahorses, thriving in the protected waters around Beachy Head, or venture to Goodwin Sands, a renowned site for shipwreck enthusiasts. Known as the Great Ship Swallower, this sandbank is believed to shelter the remains of up to 1,000 ships, offering an adventurous dive into history.
The South East is also famed for its macro life, presenting divers with an array of vibrant nudibranchs, cuttlefish, and crustaceans such as lobsters and crabs. Whether partaking in shore dives or setting out on boat excursions, divers can immerse themselves in these diverse habitats. The region’s appeal extends beyond the water, with picturesque villages featuring thatched houses, and quaint coastal towns that invite exploration. The interplay of charming English countryside and rich underwater adventures makes the South East a captivating destination for those seeking both tranquility and discovery beneath the waves.
Places to explore
Courses and Events
Dive Activity
Diving in South East of England
The Southeast of England offers a variety of exciting dive sites for enthusiasts. Notable wreck dives include the SS Richard Montgomery, a World War II Liberty ship located off the coast of Sheerness. This dive site is famous for its history and the eerie beauty of the wreck as it stands partially submerged, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Another popular wreck is the HMS Brazen, found near the Goodwin Sands, known for its rich marine life and the remains of the 18th-century warship. For those preferring shore dives, St. Abbs offers a unique underwater experience with its vibrant reefs teeming with marine life, while Brighton Marina provides easily accessible shore diving with diverse species to observe. Dive travelers can enjoy both shore and liveaboard options, with the latter offering more extensive exploration opportunities for those looking to immerse themselves fully in the underwater wonders of the region. Additionally, night dives in this area reveal fascinating nocturnal behaviors of local marine creatures, making for an unforgettable diving experience.
Top Wildlife Sightings in South East of England
The South East of England offers a diverse marine ecosystem, attracting divers eager to explore its underwater treasures. Amongst the rocky reefs and kelp forests, you'll find common species like wrasse, gobies, and blennies. These vibrant reef fish are a staple of the region, visible throughout the year and thriving in the nutrient-rich waters. Seasonal highlights include the sighting of smooth-hound sharks and eagle rays, primarily during the warmer months. While turtle sightings are rare, they occasionally grace the waters, offering a special treat for divers. The presence of these species varies, with coastal areas like Sussex and Kent providing a higher likelihood of encounters due to their diverse habitats and favorable conditions for marine life.
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
334 Sightings
J
6
F
5
M
24
A
11
M
26
J
27
J
63
A
64
S
62
O
34
N
12
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 3
iStock-jpa1999
Perch
744 Sightings
J
13
F
2
M
0
A
12
M
59
J
84
J
180
A
167
S
145
O
55
N
20
D
7
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
Shutterstock-dushkovladimir
Crayfish
490 Sightings
J
11
F
2
M
15
A
23
M
41
J
64
J
101
A
71
S
77
O
49
N
23
D
13
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 5
iStock-abadonian
Pike
359 Sightings
J
13
F
15
M
28
A
18
M
52
J
41
J
64
A
51
S
48
O
29
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
268 Sightings
J
4
F
5
M
2
A
10
M
31
J
39
J
64
A
68
S
28
O
9
N
7
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
170 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
4
A
10
M
12
J
24
J
34
A
32
S
39
O
11
N
4
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 30
Shutterstock-Rostislav Stefanek
Carp
164 Sightings
J
6
F
0
M
14
A
0
M
26
J
13
J
46
A
14
S
36
O
8
N
1
D
0
Shutterstock-Rostislav Stefanek
Tench
111 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
11
A
0
M
17
J
15
J
32
A
13
S
17
O
5
N
1
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
72 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
4
A
4
M
4
J
8
J
12
A
16
S
15
O
6
N
3
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
70 Sightings
J
4
F
3
M
10
A
0
M
0
J
1
J
8
A
16
S
11
O
15
N
2
D
0
The best Months to dive in South East of England
South East of England offers diving opportunities year-round, though conditions vary with the seasons. During summer, water temperatures range from 15°C–20°C/59°F–68°F, while winter sees cooler ranges of 6°C–10°C/43°F–50°F. Visibility can be affected by weather, typically ranging from 5 to 10 meters/16 to 33 feet, but may decrease due to rain or storms. Diving is possible throughout the year, but autumn and winter can bring stronger winds and currents, making conditions less favorable. Spring and summer offer calmer seas and milder weather, providing better visibility and overall diving experiences. Planning around the weather forecast can help divers enjoy safer and more enjoyable dives.
