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Two Very Unusual Indoor Diving Destinations

Two Very Unusual Indoor Diving Destinations

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on February 21, 2016

There is certainly no shortage of natural dive destinations on this beautiful planet of ours, but that doesn’t mean man-made structures aren’t up to the challenge. In this post we’ll explore just two unusual indoor diving destinations that offer even the most seasoned diver something new to see and learn.

Nemo33

Who doesn’t love a refreshing dip in the pool? How about a swimming pool that keeps going, and going, and going? It’s called Nemo33 and it’s the deepest indoor diving pool in the world. Built in Brussels, Belgium by scuba diver John Beernaerts, it measures 113 feet (34.5 meters) deep and features two platforms — one at 16 feet, another at 32 feet — before plunging to its full depths. There are several underwater windows that outside visitors can peek through and watch the divers, and even simulated caves and swim-throughs. Beernaerts designed the pool for use as a multi-purpose diving instruction facility, as well as a film production complex.

On the downside, there are no cool fish or corals to see. On the plus side, this distraction-free environment is an excellent place to hone your skills or learn new ones, plus you’re always guaranteed crystal clear visibility. There is also a bar and cafe in which you can relax, have a snack, or watch your fellow divers from the observation windows.

Titan I ICBM Missile Complex

For a similar (if not slightly creepier) experience, head to Royal City in Washington state. A drive through empty fields will bring you what looks like an old scrap yard  Here you will find the abandoned Titan I ICBM Missile Complex. Pass through the massive launch bay doors, climb down a metal tube, and you’re in what was once an armed missile silo, a relic of the Cold War that now beckons adventurous divers and historians.

What may sound daunting to some can be exhilarating to others. After the site was abandoned and sold in the early 1960s, the groundwater formerly kept at bay by pumps crept in to create one of the most unusual man-made dive environments around.

This is not a glamorous expedition. Salvagers have swept through the site over the years, without concern for preservation, and have even removed the flooring deck plates. Watch out for underwater obstacles as you make your way into the deepening water. Like Nemo33, this is an advanced and deep dive. Conversely, it is also a dark dive. The 100-foot deep silo has no ambient light, so bring your dive lights. This is a guided dive, with access by permission only.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro