Diving in the Far Eastern Federal District
Diving Far East Russia is a great adventure and is sure to excite the most avid diver. Diving in the Primorsky Krai area is quite common; however, tourist flow is small due to its far distance from Moscow. There are several dive centers and named sites along the coast bordering the Sea of Japan, where divers can enjoy the warmer climate found here relative to the rest of Russia. Further north, the Sea of Okhotsk and Bering Sea surround the Kamchatka Peninsula, where you can find more Far East Russia diving opportunities. Part of the Ring of Fire, Kamchatka Krai has 300 volcanoes, 29 of which are still active. Most diving in Kamchatka takes place on the Pacific coast, where you can see up to 400 marine species, from small fish to large whales. On the opposite side of the peninsula, you will find the Sea of Okhotsk. Diving in the Sea of Okhotsk is not for the faint of heart. With freezing temperatures most of the year, this frozen sea begins to break up in February and March, the only time of year when you can see the beautiful and mysterious sea angel, a unique oceanic sea slug only found in these northern, frigid waters.
Wildlife Encounters in Far Eastern Federal District
The waters of Far East Russia may be freezing; however, this region exhibits some of the most diverse of Russia marine life. While diving in Far East Russia, you will encounter species typical of the cold Arctic Sea and the North Pacific Ocean. Common sightings include numerous fish species, large echinoderms, king crabs, fur seals, and sea lions. Many different cetacean species thrive here, like sperm whales, sei whales, fin whales, humpbacks, killer whales (orcas), and dolphins. The most unique Russian marine life encounter, however, is the sea angel, also known as a sea butterfly or clione. This oceanic sea slug flutters near the water’s surface only in the late spring and summer months, captivating divers from all over.