Vinkeveen

Vinkeveen, located just south of Amsterdam, offers a unique freshwater diving experience in the Vinkeveense Plassen. These man-made lakes, formed from historic peat harvesting, are renowned for their surprisingly clear water and intriguing underwater landscapes. Divers can explore sheer peat walls, underwater forests, and a variety of deliberately sunk objects, including a city bus and a small airplane, creating an underwater playground. This accessibility and variety make it one of the most popular inland dive destinations in the Netherlands, especially for training and recreational dives.

Diving conditions in Vinkeveen are typical for a temperate European lake, with significant temperature variations throughout the year. The water is cold, necessitating a drysuit or a thick wetsuit, but visibility can be excellent, often exceeding 10 meters, particularly outside the busy summer season. It's an ideal destination for divers of all levels looking to experience something different from tropical reefs. The combination of easy access, unique underwater topography, and purpose-sunk attractions provides a compelling reason for both local and visiting divers to explore its cool, clear depths.