Dive Site: under the iceberg scour

About under the iceberg scour

Diving in Antarctica offers a unique experience beneath its frigid waters, a stark contrast to typical warm-water destinations. The underwater environment is defined by colossal ice formations and towering icebergs that shape the topography. While specific dive sites are not fixed due to the expeditionary nature of Antarctic travel, exploration often occurs in areas where iceberg scouring has not rendered the seabed barren, such as along walls and near smaller ice formations. Beneath the surface, divers encounter a vibrant ecosystem perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions. Marine life includes massive swarms of Antarctic krill, starfish, spider crabs, peacock worms, dogfish, sea squirts, and soft corals. There are also frequent encounters with curious seals and penguins, and the possibility of swimming with whales, all within an environment of unique underwater ice textures and shapes. Antarctic dives are characterized by extreme cold, with water temperatures typically one or two degrees below freezing. Dives are generally short, lasting 15 to 30 minutes, due to the rapid onset of cold. This demanding environment requires divers to be Advanced Open Water certified with a Drysuit Specialty, possessing at least 30 drysuit dives and 10 dives within the last year. Safety precautions are paramount, including strict adherence to dive plans and familiarity with specialized cold-water gear. Visibility is often exceptional, frequently exceeding 30 meters, providing clear views of the submerged landscape and marine inhabitants. Entry is typically from Zodiac boats, with divemasters monitoring from the surface. The dynamic nature of ice and weather conditions means itineraries are flexible, focusing on safe and opportunistic diving around ice-free areas and walls.

Dive site facts: under the iceberg scour

Depth

0–70 m

Current

Moderate

Entry

Liveaboard only

Level

Advanced

Dive type

Wall, Reef

Region / port

Antarctica

Coordinates

64.7900° S, 64.0800° W

Conditions & Currents

Antarctic waters present challenging conditions, with strong currents sometimes present, particularly near ice formations. Expedition leaders assess bathymetry and ice conditions daily to avoid areas with challenging hidden currents and significant ice scour. Divers must be prepared for water temperatures typically one or two degrees below freezing, necessitating robust drysuit experience and specialized equipment. The severe cold can induce a mammalian diving reflex upon entry, requiring mental preparedness. Dives are often short, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, to mitigate the effects of cold. Entry is commonly from Zodiac boats, with a divemaster stationed on the surface for safety. Visibility can be exceptional, often surpassing 30 meters, but particulate matter can sometimes be present. Given the extreme environment, divers require Advanced Open Water and Drysuit Specialty certifications, plus recent drysuit diving experience, making it a destination for highly experienced cold-water divers.

Liveaboards diving under the iceberg scour

These liveaboards may visit under the iceberg scour on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Plancius

Antarctica

108 guests89 m

$772/day

Ortelius

Antarctica

108 guests90.95 m

$662/day

Hondius Antarctica Diving

Antarctica

170 guests107.6 m

$776/day