This year's New Year's dive in the Netherlands made history with a staggering turnout of over 65,000 people across 163 dive locations, marking a significant increase from the previous year's

50,000 participants in 143 dives.

The Scheveningen Beach dive, renowned as the country's largest New Year's Dive, attracted about 10,000 participants, maintaining its reputation. Despite challenging conditions with a water temperature around 7 degrees Celsius and strong winds, the dive commenced at noon, with the sun briefly breaking through the clouds as divers dried off and enjoyed soup afterward.

However, this year marked a change in tradition since 1960, as the dive was relocated due to construction near the Kurhaus boulevard. The new location, situated 400 meters south near the Beelden aan Zee museum, accommodated the event seamlessly, ensuring all participants found their way without a hitch.

Alex Schuttert, the Dutch New Year's Dive association chair, expressed satisfaction with the smooth transition, citing clear directions for participants and labeling the experience as "very pleasant."

The dive festivities spread across 163 locations in the Netherlands and 17 abroad, with only one event in Gennep, Limburg, being cancelled due to high water.

This year's record-breaking participation signifies the enduring popularity and community spirit surrounding the New Year's dive tradition in the Netherlands, showcasing the enthusiasm of thousands embracing the chilly plunge to welcome the new year.