With thousands of lakes and frigid winters, it is no surprise that Poland presents such fantastic opportunities for ice diving. A nation with four distinct seasons, and with most visitors taking advantage of pleasant temperatures between May and September, Poland features winter temperatures between 32 degrees Fahrenheit and negative 13 degrees Fahrenheit most of the time; as global warming has increased though, the nation is beginning to see temperatures rising and as a result, the days of ice diving in Poland could be coming to an end. For now though, there are quite a few fantastic lakes to dive during the winter months. Here are just a few of the best.
Hańcza
Renowned as the clearest and deepest of Poland’s lakes, Hańcza Lake is also one of the very best for ice diving, partly because of the nice amenities available onshore. The local dive shop cuts access holes for divers and provides safety equipment and guides; once under the ice, you’ll find yourself in a splendid wonderland where, on sunny days, the light from above gleams beautifully. 108 meters deep, this lake features steep, boulder strewn sides, and is home to a number of fish species. Once your dive has been completed, you’ll be taken back to the lodge, where a massive fireplace and warm refreshments await.
Szelment Wielki
Another fantastic site for ice diving, and located in the scenic Suwalki Lake District, Szelment Wielki features depths between 15 and 45 meters. Onshore amenities include a fantastic resort that caters to all types of sports enthusiasts including divers. As Polish lakes go, this one is a bit small with a surface area of just 3.56 square kilometers, but the diving is fantastic.
Białe Jezioro
Translated to English, Biale Jezioro means “White Lake.” Just 15 meters deep, but home to quite a few fish and crayfish, this fantastic little lake is a favorite with local divers. During the summer, day and night diving is available, and during the winter months, ice diving allows for an excellent view of the lake’s rock formations. While summertime visibility is usually only about 3 meters, winter visitors experience visibility closer to ten meters.
Białe Filipowskie
Located in the Suwalki Lake District, Biale Filipowskie features steep, sloping edges and maximum depth at 57 meters. A pristine lake accessed by a small, rutted road, this lake is surrounded by marshland on one side and trees on the other. Local dive operators maintain an onsite base at the lake during the summer months, but during the winter, trips are scheduled via the Irek Diving School at Kątnego.
In order to ice dive in Poland, you’ll need to be certified prior to your arrival, or obtain ice diving certification from one of the many dive operators that service the nation’s lakes. There are more than 290 registered diving clubs and scuba centers in Poland, with most being conveniently located near those lakes that offer the best opportunities for diving. Be sure to bring redundant gear and a dry suit, plus a good light and your favorite dive buddy; before you know it, you’ll be exploring the ice beneath some of the most beautiful lakes Eastern Europe has to offer.