Explore Lake Starnberg

Diving in Lake Starnberg, or Starnberger See, offers a unique freshwater experience in the heart of Bavaria, just a short distance from Munich. Known for its mention in T. S. Eliot’s poem, "The Waste Land," this lake is anything but desolate. As Germany’s fifth largest freshwater lake, it spans an impressive 56 hectares (138 acres) and reaches depths of about 128 meters (420 feet), promising divers a rich and varied underwater adventure.

The lake boasts excellent visibility of up to 30 meters (98 feet), which allows for clear exploration of its intriguing underwater features. Divers can explore a steep underwater wall and an intriguing old wreck, providing a sense of mystery and history. The lake's diverse aquatic fauna adds vibrant life to the dive, with species typical to freshwater environments offering an engaging spectacle. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Starnberger See offers sites that cater to all levels, making it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts in Germany.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★☆ Paradies Starnberger See

This dive site is accessible via Starnberg, in the direction of Possenhofen. At the first kiosk turn right into the driveway and unload your car. Take your equipment to the lake and park your car at the very large parking lot. In good weather, the kiosk is open all year round.

6,539
Logs
1,057
Divers
9.0 m
⌀ Depth
5.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Steilwand, Starnberger See, Allmannshausen

The Allmannshauser Steilwand is rightly known as one of the most beautiful dive sites in Germany. Diving from the shallow shore to the middle of the lake, you reach the edge after a few minutes at a depth of 12-20 meters, depending on the point of entry. Underneath is a wonderfully varied steep face.

2,606
Logs
558
Divers
22.0 m
⌀ Depth
6.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Aqualung

★★★★☆ Wort des Lebens, Starnberger See, Assenhausen

From the entrance at the pebble beach on the left side of the Seeburg you reach the Allmannshauser Steilwand (steep face) by diving to the right from a depth of approx. 18m. On the left side the bottom slopes more gently, at 3-5m there is a rock garden. A varied dive site, for beginners as well as for advanced divers.

1,470
Logs
336
Divers
18.0 m
⌀ Depth
7.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Allmannshausen Wintertauchplatz

Outside the bathing season, when many areas of the Starnberger See are closed for nature conservation reasons, diving is still allowed here. Slightly to the left at 25-30 m you will find the entrance to a smaller, stepped steep face. Straight ahead and slightly to the right between, 10 and 20m, you will find various “sights“.

977
Logs
221
Divers
24.0 m
⌀ Depth
9.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares, Janez Kranjc

★★★★☆ Leonie, Starnberger See

Leoni is one of the few year-round diveable entrances for Starnberger See. Popular in summer for courses (and therefore limited visibility), the dive site is underestimated the rest of the year: relaxed dives at shallower depths (up to 20 m), even after sunset (max. 1h!) with lots of life!

646
Logs
145
Divers
12.0 m
⌀ Depth
5.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Berg (Wreck)

The highlight in Berg is the so-called shingle wreck, which lies at a depth of about 38m. Another highlight is a sunken sailboat which lies in approx. 8m.

208
Logs
64
Divers
26.0 m
⌀ Depth
8.0 m
⌀ Visibility

Diving in Lake Starnberg

Lake Starnberg, located in Bavaria, Germany, offers divers a unique freshwater experience with several notable dive sites. One popular spot is the Allmannshausen Wall, known for its steep underwater cliffs that drop sharply, providing thrilling opportunities for wall diving. The site is accessible from the shore, making it a convenient choice for divers of various skill levels.

Another fascinating location is the "Wreck Bay," where divers can explore sunken boats, offering a taste of wreck diving. Starnberger See is also home to an array of local aquatic life, including pike and perch. The clear waters enhance visibility, allowing divers to appreciate the lake's diverse underwater landscapes. Whether you're seeking the adventure of quarry-style diving or the mystery of submerged caves, Starnberger See offers a captivating freshwater diving experience.

The best Months to dive in Lake Starnberg

Lake Starnberg offers year-round diving opportunities, although conditions vary across seasons. During the summer months, water temperatures range from 18°C–22°C/64°F–72°F, providing comfortable diving conditions. In winter, temperatures drop to 4°C–6°C/39°F–43°F, requiring adequate thermal protection.

Visibility in Starnberger See can fluctuate, typically ranging from 5 meters/16 feet to 15 meters/49 feet, depending on algae growth and water circulation. Wind and currents generally have a minimal impact; however, strong winds can occasionally stir surface conditions. While diving is possible throughout the year, spring and late autumn might offer less favorable conditions due to limited visibility and cooler temperatures.

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