Diving atWWII USSR Submarine SHT-211 (Bulgaria)
Approaching the WWII USSR Submarine Sht-211 wreck requires acknowledging its significant historical context, marking a site where 44 personnel lost their lives. This is a compact, fragmented military wreck, typical of the Black Sea, lying within recreational diving limits. Divers should be prepared for conditions characteristic of a deeper, low-relief wreck, emphasizing careful planning and execution.
Tonight's objective overview for WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211 shows an air temperature of 11.9°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.48m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
43.1079, 28.1209
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
A compelling historical dive experience awaits visitors to the Sht-211, a WWII-era Soviet submarine wreck in the Black Sea, accessible from Bulgaria’s Varna area. It's a site that evokes a strong sense of its military past, characterized by a compact hull form and low relief above the seabed.
Resting in two main sections, separated by approximately 150 m (492 ft), the submarine reaches a maximum depth of 24 m (79 ft). Its recreational depth makes the site suitable for Open Water certified divers who have appropriate wreck training. Angel Divers typically organizes boat dives to this location, usually involving hotel pickups around 8:00 AM, a departure from Nessebar, and two planned wreck dives.
After the dives, a meal and a beer are common before returning to Nessebar around 5:00 PM, making it a full-day excursion. Divers will find the atmosphere of a submerged war machine, rather than a vibrant marine showcase.
Light levels diminish rapidly in the Black Sea, so close proximity to the wreck is necessary to discern its details clearly. Bringing proper lighting is essential to fully appreciate the historical aspects of the site.
Best Time to Dive
For a comfortable and rewarding dive experience at the Sht-211, targeting months with 'Good' dive scores is recommended, typically between March and October. During this period, especially from June to August, air temperatures are at their highest, averaging 21.5°C (70.7°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F). Wave heights and wind speeds also tend to be lower during these summer months, contributing to more favorable boat conditions. While the surface waters of the Black Sea can be warm, deeper sections of the wreck are notably colder, suggesting that appropriate thermal protection is essential regardless of the season. Rainfall is generally minimal during the peak dive months, contributing to consistent dive days.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Divers typically approach the Sht-211 via a boat dive, initiating a controlled descent directly onto the wreck. As you drop through the water column, the submarine initially appears as a dark outline, requiring closer proximity to fully appreciate its form. Once on the wreck, a circuit of its exterior reveals the submarine's compact hull and low profile above the seabed. Attention to orientation and silt disturbance is crucial here. The site is notable for its two main sections, separated by a distance of 150 m (492 ft). Visibility at the site generally ranges from 4.5 to 9 meters (15 to 30 ft). While surface currents can sometimes be present, conditions at the maximum depth of 24 m (79 ft) usually exhibit no heavy current, providing a stable platform for exploration.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Sht-211 wreck requires a minimum certification level of Open Water Diver or equivalent, alongside at least one prior recreational dive to ensure preparedness for wreck diving conditions. Given the low relief and historical nature of this site, following your divemaster's instructions regarding navigation and silt avoidance is paramount. The Black Sea's characteristic rapid light attenuation with depth means divers should carry adequate primary and backup lighting to properly illuminate features and maintain situational awareness. Be aware that water temperatures can be remarkably cold in deeper sections; appropriate thermal exposure suits are strongly advised to ensure comfort throughout the dive. Always maintain strict buoyancy control to prevent disturbing the wreck or stirring up silt, which can quickly reduce visibility for everyone.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Repeated dives during the same day can gradually reduce overall body warmth.
Divers exploring WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211 today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 12°C (54°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 12°C (53°F). Divers spending extended time underwater often rely on 7mm wetsuit or semidry for balanced warmth and flexibility. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Strong cold advisory: dress warmly immediately after exiting the water.
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local Bulgaria medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View Bulgaria Visa Hub
Currency
BGN
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211
While the Sht-211 is primarily explored as a historical wreck, the site does host some Black Sea flora and typical marine inhabitants. Divers will notice various forms of plant life clinging to the submarine's structure, adding a touch of natural integration to the submerged history. Encounters with specific, large marine creatures are not a primary highlight; instead, the focus remains on observing the wreck itself and the general ecosystem that has developed around it. The dive provides an opportunity to see how marine life adapts to and colonizes artificial structures in this unique environment.
Dive Sites Near WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211
View all dive sites in BulgariaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211
No Dive Centers Local To WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211
Are you a dive center visiting this location? Get listed to reach divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certification is required to dive the Sht-211?
You need to hold at least an Open Water Diver certification or a similar qualifying certificate from another training organization. Additionally, one prior recreational dive is usually required before visiting this wreck site.
What is the maximum depth of the Sht-211 wreck?
The WWII USSR Submarine Sht-211 wreck reaches a maximum depth of 24 m (79 ft). Its location is well within recreational diving limits, making it accessible to a wide range of certified divers.
Is the Sht-211 a good site for marine life viewing?
Primarily a historical wreck dive, the Sht-211 isn't typically known as a marine life showcase. While some Black Sea flora can be observed, the main attraction remains the submarine wreck and its historical significance.
How long does a typical dive trip to Sht-211 last?
A dive trip to the Sht-211 is generally a full-day excursion. Operators often pick up divers from hotels around 8:00 AM, departing from Nessebar, and return around 5:00 PM after two dives.
What are the typical water conditions like at the wreck site?
Visibility at the wreck usually ranges from 4.5 to 9 meters (15 to 30 ft). While surface currents may occur, heavy currents are not typically reported at deeper sections. Water temperatures can be quite cold at depth, even if surface layers are warmer.
Is the Sht-211 wreck intact?
Resting in two main sections, separated by approximately 150 m (492 ft), the Sht-211 wreck maintains a compact hull form. It has a low relief above the seabed, giving it an intact 'military wreck' feel despite being broken into parts.
Can divers penetrate the Sht-211 wreck?
Given its status as a historical military wreck with a compact hull form and low relief, penetration is not widely encouraged or described as a feature of the dive. Divers typically perform an exterior circuit of the wreck with close attention to orientation and silt management.
Liveaboards Sailing to WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in Bulgaria.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211 reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive WWII USSR Submarine SHT-211?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.