This dive site, Plaat van Oude Tonge, is an exclusively boat-accessible location within the Oosterschelde National Park, Netherlands. Divers explore a relatively shallow seabed and follow along extensive mussel strings, offering unique bottom navigation. There's no specific historical context provided, but its location suggests a natural formation within the estuary, primarily known for its biological features rather than historical events.
While not the most densely overgrown site in the Oosterschelde, Plaat van Oude Tonge offers sufficient marine life for observation. Divers can expect to encounter various temperate zone species typical of the Oosterschelde, such as crabs, lobsters, numerous species of nudibranchs, gobies, blennies, starfish, and sea anemones thriving on and around the mussel beds and the sandy-silty bottom.
The best time to visit Plaat van Oude Tonge is during calm weather conditions to avoid surface chop and strong winds, which can attract numerous kitesurfers and impact visibility. Divers should always ensure they have explicit permission before diving near or on any mussel installations, as this is strictly prohibited without it. Its shallow average depth of 5 meters, with a maximum of 10 meters, makes it suitable for beginner divers and freedivers seeking bottom time and macro photography opportunities.
