Diving atShchelkovo, Dolomite Quarry, Fifth Element (Russia)
Dolomite quarry, known locally as "Fifth element," provides an accessible inland training ground near Moscow, distinguishing itself with purpose-built underwater attractions. A flooded quarry, it features an established dive base, specifically catering to divers refining skills in controlled freshwater conditions. Its proximity to the city makes it a practical option for regular training and recreational dives away from unpredictable open water environments.
Recent updates for Shchelkovo, Dolomite Quarry, Fifth Element show an air temperature measuring 0.4°C. Overall water conditions reflect the typical seasonal state for Russia. Please exercise standard safety precautions before entering the water.
Dive Site Coordinates
55.9173, 38.0379
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Shchelkovo's Dolomite quarry, often called the Fifth Element, functions as a principal training and recreational dive site situated near Moscow. What truly sets this freshwater quarry apart are its intentionally submerged objects designed for diver exploration and skill development.
Rather than relying solely on natural formations, the site boasts a variety of artificial structures providing unique navigation and task-oriented challenges. Reported depths extend from 3 to 12 m / 10 to 39 ft, with average visibility often around 10 m / 33 ft. Both shore and boat entries are viable, offering flexibility for different dive types and training levels.
Divers will find a combination of purpose-built features and natural submerged tree structures, remnants of a once-flooded forest, adding to the underwater landscape. Conditions are typically calm, experiencing no significant current or surge, which aids in planning and execution, especially for training dives.
A well-appointed dive base and recreational facilities further enhance its appeal as a dedicated diving destination. Calm conditions here support focused learning and relaxed recreational exploration.
Best Time to Dive
Planning dives at Shchelkovo's Dolomite quarry largely depends on surface air temperatures and precipitation patterns, given its inland freshwater nature. March and September typically offer excellent conditions, with March seeing average air temperatures around 0.8°C and minimal rain at approximately 0.91 mm. September is milder, averaging 14.6°C air temperature and very low rainfall, about 0.38 mm, which might suggest better surface comfort for divers. Months like June, July, and August experience the warmest air temperatures, ranging from 17.4°C to 20.1°C, though these months also report higher average rainfall, between 1.85 mm and 2.69 mm. While warmer air is comfortable, increased rainfall could influence runoff and potentially impact visibility, although specific correlations aren't consistently reported for this site. The quarry is diveable year-round, with good conditions generally prevailing. Winter months, from December to February, present significantly colder air temperatures, dropping to -7.7°C, which necessitates specialized drysuit diving, but rainfall is also relatively low.
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
Descending into Shchelkovo Dolomite quarry offers a distinct feeling of controlled freshwater exploration. Water typically presents an average visibility of around 10 m / 33 ft, allowing for clear views of the submerged training objects and sunken tree structures. Divers report calm conditions without noticeable currents or surge, creating a stable environment, particularly beneficial for skill development. You'll navigate between various flooded elements placed deliberately for practice, alongside natural, though limited, aquatic vegetation. An often quiet experience, it provides a focused ambiance for concentrating on tasks or simply enjoying the underwater landscape. Depths encountered are generally shallow, ranging up to 12 meters, making it accessible for a wide range of certification levels. It feels like an underwater classroom combined with a serene, albeit artificial, aquatic park.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching the Shchelkovo Dolomite quarry requires a mindful awareness of its unique features. A key consideration here is the potential for entanglement. Submerged tree structures, remnants of a flooded forest, present snag risks. Divers should maintain good buoyancy control and situational awareness, especially when exploring around these natural obstructions. As with any overhead environment, proper training and equipment for wreck or quarry diving are prudent before venturing near larger submerged objects. The site's shallow nature, with reported depths up to 12 meters, generally reduces decompression concerns, but careful air management remains critical for any depth. An equipped base for divers and excellent facilities support safe operations, but divers should always conduct buddy checks and plan their dive profiles diligently.
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
Based on regional estimates and current weather, the likely required exposure protection is a thicker wetsuit or drysuit. Note that local currents and upwellings can alter this. Strong cold advisory: dress warmly immediately after exiting the water. Because recent water temperature readings are not available for Shchelkovo, Dolomite Quarry, Fifth Element, the guidance below is based mainly on current air conditions and seasonal expectations. Current surface air temperatures are roughly 0°C (33°F).
Longer-range forecasts show some uncertainty in upcoming temperature trends. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Conditions can vary slightly across different parts of the same dive site.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at Shchelkovo, Dolomite Quarry, Fifth Element
While diving in the Dolomite quarry, the underwater landscape reveals a limited but interesting array of freshwater inhabitants. Crayfish are commonly sighted, navigating among the submerged structures. Divers might also observe various fish species, including catfish, pike, trout, carp, and perch, which inhabit the shallower and deeper sections of the quarry. These aquatic residents contribute to the natural ecosystem present within this artificial environment. The focus here often shifts from vast biodiversity to appreciating the hardy species adapted to quarry life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical dive depths at Shchelkovo Dolomite quarry?
Reported depths at the quarry generally range from 3 to 12 meters (10 to 39 feet). This makes it suitable for beginner to intermediate divers and various training programs.
Is the visibility good at this site?
Average visibility at the Dolomite quarry is typically around 10 meters (33 feet). This allows for clear views of the submerged training objects and natural features.
Are there any currents or surge to consider?
No significant currents or surge are consistently reported at this site. Divers can expect generally calm and stable conditions, which are ideal for training and skill practice.
What kind of marine life can be seen?
The quarry hosts crayfish, alongside various fish species such as catfish, pike, trout, carp, and perch. While not a coral reef, it offers a glimpse into freshwater aquatic life.
What are the main hazards for divers here?
The primary hazard is the potential for entanglement from submerged tree structures, remnants of a flooded forest. Maintaining good buoyancy and awareness is crucial to avoid snags.
Is Shchelkovo Dolomite quarry suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, it's considered a great place for training dives due to its controlled freshwater environment, shallow depths, and calm conditions. It's often recommended for Open Water Diver courses.
What facilities are available at the dive site?
The quarry features an equipped base for divers and offers excellent facilities for water recreation. This support infrastructure enhances the overall diving experience.
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