The Ordinance on diving and underwater activities, regulates all diving-related activities within Bulgaria’s territorial waters. It sets clear rules for safe and authorised diving, specifying areas where diving is allowed or restricted. The ordinance details the qualifications and certifications required for divers and sets guidelines for professional and recreational underwater activities.
This ordinance is designed to ensure the safety of both divers and underwater environments. It includes procedures for managing diving-related incidents and for monitoring underwater heritage sites. Special protocols are outlined for archaeological and scientific diving to protect submerged cultural assets. By establishing these standards, the ordinance seeks to balance recreational and professional diving interests with environmental and cultural preservation goals.
The ordinance plays a vital role in protecting Bulgaria’s underwater cultural heritage, particularly in archaeological research. By establishing strict guidelines for underwater activities, it helps prevent damage to submerged sites of historical and cultural significance. The ordinance also requires archaeological divers to follow specialised protocols and obtain permits, reinforcing responsible exploration and reducing the risk of artefact disturbance or loss.
