Upper Austria (Oberoesterreich) is known for its picturesque landscapes and lakes. The region offers a range of diving opportunities in its clear alpine lakes, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Best diving spots for experienced divers:
- Lake Attersee: As the largest lake in Austria, Lake Attersee has numerous dive sites with varying difficulty levels. Experienced divers can explore the deep dive site at Schwarze Brücke or the wreck dive at Kohlbauernaufsatz.
- Lake Traunsee: This scenic lake offers a variety of dive sites, such as the Tiefenbach dive site, featuring a sunken boat and underwater cliff formations, making it suitable for experienced divers.
Best diving spots for beginners:
- Lake Wolfgangsee: Known for its good visibility and calm waters, Lake Wolfgangsee is an ideal location for beginner divers. The Fürberg dive site offers a shallow depth and a diverse underwater landscape.
- Lake Mondsee: This lake offers a beginner-friendly dive site at the Alpenseebad, with a maximum depth of about 33 feet (10 meters) and good visibility.
Marine life:
The lakes in Upper Austria are home to various freshwater fish species, such as pike, perch, trout, and whitefish. You may also encounter freshwater crayfish, snails, and other small aquatic creatures.
Dive conditions:
Water temperatures in Upper Austria's lakes range from 41°F (5°C) in the spring to 75°F (24°C) in the summer. Visibility in the lakes is generally excellent, ranging from 16 to 65 feet (5 to 20 meters) or more, depending on the site and weather conditions.
Cost:
Diving costs in Upper Austria can vary depending on factors such as equipment rental, guided dives, and training courses. Here's a general estimate of the costs you may encounter:
- Equipment rental: $30 to $60 per day for a full set of gear.
- Guided dives: $50 to $100 per dive, depending on the dive center and location.
- Dive training and certification: $350 to $600 for entry-level courses, such as PADI Open Water Diver or SSI Open Water Diver.
Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on the dive center and season. It's always a good idea to research and contact local dive centers to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on diving costs in Upper Austria.
