Explore Weymouth and Portland
Weymouth and Portland present a unique diving destination that captivates both novice and experienced divers alike. The region is renowned for its robust marine life and varied dive environments, offering everything from vibrant reefs to intriguing wrecks. One of the most popular spots is Chesil Beach, a favored training site where beginners can hone their skills in calm waters. This area is teeming with marine life, providing an excellent introduction to the underwater world. For the more adventurous divers, the waters of Weymouth and Portland reveal a fascinating array of shipwrecks. The Aeolian Sky shipwreck stands as a highlight, offering seasoned divers the chance to explore its remnants and discover the history that lies beneath the waves. Meanwhile, the HMS M2 submarine, resting 36 meters/118 feet underwater, provides a deep dive experience and an opportunity to witness a submarine wreck in its natural habitat. This diversity in dive sites, combined with the area's rich history, makes Weymouth and Portland a memorable and enriching diving destination.
Dive Activity
Diving in Weymouth and Portland
Weymouth and Portland offer a rich array of dive sites, attracting divers with their historic wrecks and vibrant marine life. Notable wreck dives include the "M2 Submarine," a unique underwater site with a fascinating history as a submarine aircraft carrier. Another popular wreck is the "Frogner," a Norwegian steamer sunk during World War II, now a haven for marine life and divers alike. For shore diving, Chesil Beach stands out, providing easy access and a diverse marine environment, ideal for both novices and experienced divers. Night dives here reveal nocturnal marine behaviors, offering a different perspective on the underwater world. The area caters to various preferences, with a balance between shore and liveaboard diving options, making it accessible and appealing to all levels of divers seeking adventure and exploration.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Weymouth and Portland
Weymouth and Portland, located on the south coast of England, offer a diverse marine ecosystem that attracts divers from around the globe. The waters are home to a variety of reef fish including wrasse, pollock, and sea bass, commonly found around the rocky reefs and kelp forests. These species are abundant year-round, providing a colorful underwater experience. Seasonal highlights in the area include sightings of blue sharks, which are typically encountered in the warmer months of summer when they migrate closer to shore. Additionally, the occasional leatherback turtle and ray may be spotted, particularly during late spring and early autumn. These sightings, however, are less frequent and often dependent on specific conditions such as water temperature and clarity, enhancing the thrill of diving in these rich coastal waters.
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
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Common Dolphin
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Total number of species: 7000
iStock-Michael Zeigler
Crab
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Total number of species: 190
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Conger Eel
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Total number of species: 55
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Lobster
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Pollock
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Total number of species: 3000
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Nudibranch
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Total number of species: 22
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Cod
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Total number of species: 19
Alamy-Alex Mustard
Seal
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Total number of species: 120
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Cuttlefish
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John Dory
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Total number of species: 60
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Spiny Lobster
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The best Months to dive in Weymouth and Portland
Diving in Weymouth and Portland is possible year-round, offering a variety of experiences for divers. Water temperatures range from 6°C–18°C/43°F–64°F, with the warmest periods typically from late spring to early autumn. Visibility varies throughout the year, generally ranging from 5 to 10 meters/16 to 33 feet, often improving during the summer months.
Weather conditions such as wind and currents significantly impact diving. The area can experience strong winds, especially in winter, which might reduce visibility and create challenging conditions. While diving is feasible all year, late autumn and winter are considered less favorable due to cooler temperatures and rougher sea conditions. Planning is essential to ensure safe and enjoyable dives, taking into account weather forecasts and tidal schedules.
