Riff Nienhagen

Located in the southwestern part of the Fisheries Protection Area (FSG) of the LFA, this reef offers a captivating dive experience. Situated at a depth of 11 to 12 meters, this dive site is conveniently accessible, only 8 km west of Warnemünde and a short distance of approximately 1.5 km from the shore of the beautiful Baltic Sea resort of Nienhagen.

Divers exploring this underwater wonderland will encounter a diverse array of Baltic Sea species. From the charming gobies to the majestic cod, rockfish, mussels, starfish, whiting, golden maiden, rock shrimp, and flatfish, this dive site is teeming with marine life. Notably, since 2019, the addition of the spotted wrasse has further enhanced the biodiversity of this location.

The establishment of the "Reef Project - Fisheries Monitoring and Fouling Studies on Artificial Reefs" was driven by the decline in fishery resources and the need for sustainable management measures in the Baltic Sea. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's coastal region, including the western part of the Baltic Sea, conventional management strategies like minimum landing lengths, minimum mesh sizes, temporary fishing bans, and restricted areas were not enough. Therefore, the "Artificial Reef - Nienhagen" project (2002 to 2008) aimed to explore alternative approaches to stabilize commercial fish stocks.

The outcome of the project was the creation of an extensive artificial underwater habitat off the coast of Nienhagen. This habitat serves as a recruitment, growth, and resting zone for the fish species endemic to the area. Scientific studies conducted on this reef have demonstrated a significant increase in the fishing value of the surrounding waters. Additionally, the presence of the red alga Delesseria sanguinea holds the potential for an additional source of income for fishing companies, further highlighting the economic benefits of this artificial reef.

Building upon the success of the previous project, further research objectives were established. These objectives include determining the time spent by cod in the artificial habitats and studying the migration behavior of local cod stocks. The aim is to quantifiably assess the impact of the reef on the protection and promotion of the cod stock. Ultimately, this scientific evaluation will contribute to an ecopoint assessment of artificial reefs, facilitating informed decision-making regarding the construction of additional reefs. Efforts to negotiate corresponding ecopoints as compensation measures are already underway, showcasing the dedication to sustainable fishery practices.

With a visibility of 6 meters and a maximum depth of 11 meters, this dive site is suitable for advanced divers. As it is located in Germany, specifically Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it offers an accessible and enriching diving experience for both local and international divers. So gear up and immerse yourself in the captivating underwater world of the Nienhagen artificial reef. Plan your dive today and discover the wonders that await beneath the surface of the Baltic Sea.