Simpson & Pantari

Simpson and Pantari is an advanced double wreck dive in the outer Stockholm archipelago where two vessels lie close together at thirty-five meters depth, creating one of the most compelling deep diving experiences available in Swedish waters. The presence of two wrecks in close proximity offers the rare opportunity to explore distinct vessels in a single dive, each with its own character and history on the Baltic seabed. The site lies in the outer reaches of the archipelago where the islands thin out and the open Baltic begins to assert itself. Conditions here can be more exposed than at inner archipelago sites, with greater potential for surface chop and current at depth. The boat ride out passes through increasingly wild scenery, the granite skerries becoming smaller and more wave-worn as you approach the dive site. Descending to thirty-five meters, the first wreck emerges from the characteristic deep Baltic gloom. The proximity of the second wreck means that with efficient navigation and good conditions, experienced divers can visit both structures during a single dive, though the depth-imposed time constraints mean each visit must be purposeful and well-planned. The two wrecks may have different orientations and states of preservation, providing contrasting exploration experiences within the same profile. The Baltic's preservation magic is evident on both wrecks. At thirty-five meters, the environmental conditions are near-optimal for slowing the deterioration processes that consume shipwrecks elsewhere. Structural details, fittings, and the overall integrity of both vessels remain impressive, allowing divers to study construction methods and imagine the ships as they appeared when afloat. The contrast between the two wrecks adds educational value, as differences in construction, size, and age become apparent through direct comparison. Marine life congregates around both wreck structures, which together create a substantial area of hard substrate on the otherwise barren deep bottom. Cod are regular inhabitants, using the wrecks' sheltered spaces as holding stations. The combined wreck field attracts more life than either vessel would alone, making this a relatively productive site for fish encounters at depth. The technical demands of this dive are significant. Thirty-five meters in cold Baltic water requires disciplined gas management, narcosis awareness, and careful decompression planning. The temptation to extend bottom time to visit both wrecks must be balanced against safe ascent profiles, and many experienced divers opt for technical gas mixes to maximize their time on the bottom while maintaining appropriate safety margins. Simpson and Pantari represents a unique offering in the Stockholm archipelago's wreck diving portfolio. The double wreck format, the deep Baltic atmosphere, and the outer archipelago setting combine to create a dive that stands apart from single-wreck sites and rewards the advanced diver with an exceptionally rich exploration experience.