This dive site, Zuidbout, is situated at the end of a dam within the Oosterschelde National Park in the Netherlands. It is renowned for its impressive steep wall that descends to a maximum depth of 21 meters, making it one of the deeper locations in the Oosterschelde. On the left side of the dam, a small wreck lies at 12 meters, largely unidentifiable but heavily encrusted and serving as a vibrant habitat. This site requires advanced diving skills and is not suitable for beginners due to its depth and the challenging tidal currents often encountered here.
The underwater landscape is characterized by large blocks and the steep wall, beautifully colonized by a diverse array of marine life, notably bread and antler sponges. These formations create intricate networks of small spaces and crevices, providing excellent hiding spots and foraging grounds for various crabs, crayfish, and numerous species of small fish, making it an ideal spot for macro photography.
To best experience Zuidbout, divers should plan their dives around slack tide to mitigate the strong tidal currents prevalent in the Oosterschelde. While visibility can be variable, the rich marine biodiversity and unique topography offer a rewarding experience for experienced divers. This site is particularly appealing to those interested in temperate water macro life, wreck exploration, and challenging wall dives.
