This dive site, "De Zeehond en De Rat," located near Scharendijke in the Netherlands, offers an intriguing exploration of two accessible wrecks. Divers enter at "kabbelaar" and navigate along an underwater wall until they encounter the 14-meter "De Rat" wreck at 11 meters, followed by the 10-meter "De Hond" wreck at 9 meters. These wrecks are the main highlights and provide structural complexity for marine life.
The wrecks themselves are somewhat overgrown, creating habitats for various fish and marine life. Divers are encouraged to meticulously explore cracks, holes, and crevices around the wrecks, where smaller creatures, crustaceans, and other fascinating macro life can be discovered. The site typically hosts fish species common to temperate brackish waters, such as perch and various invertebrates.
The best time to visit this site would generally be during warmer months for potentially better visibility and more comfortable conditions, though year-round diving is possible with appropriate cold water gear. This shallow, current-mild site is excellent for beginner divers and freedivers looking to practice wreck exploration and macro photography. It's advisable to carry a dive light to illuminate the darker sections of the wrecks and enhance observation of hidden life.
