Vancouver Island is an adventure junkie’s dreamland. From mountains for climbing, hiking, and biking to the Pacific Ocean’s surfing and diving paradise, Vancouver Island is one of the most ideal places in the world for those who want non-stop exploration and excitement. Some of Vancouver Island’s main tourist draws are the epic dive spots right off its coasts. The warm Pacific currents provide some of the most ideal SCUBA diving temperatures on the planet. Pretty hard to believe for Canada, eh?
The sites for SCUBA diving Vancouver Island are some of the best in the world. If you’re interested in diving, whether you’re a newcomer or an expert, you won’t be disappointed in the diversity of sites at your skill level. Pack your bags and don’t leave your camera behind–Vancouver Island’s adventure oasis is waiting!
Nanoose Bay
Head to Nanoose Bay and see for yourself. Nanoose Bay offers some of the best dive sites of Vancouver Island, so if you don’t have a lot of time, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a ton of dives on a limited vacation. Dives are available for all skill levels and are easy to access, so you can spend less time searching and more time in the water. Nanoose Bay’s Wall Beach has shore access and is a relatively easy dive in nearly all conditions. For a more challenging dive, head to Cottam Point and experience a bigger reward for your risk. Eel, king crab, starfish, swimming scallop, and boot sponge sightings are common.
Dodd Narrows
Advanced divers rarely miss a stop at Dodd Narrows when SCUBA diving Vancouver Island. After all, it is ranked the No. 2 dive site in British Columbia. Because of its tight location between Cedar and Mudge Island, currents are strong and boat traffic is common, but the sea life is arguably the best of Vancouver Island. Your eyes won’t believe the number of sea anemone, sea stars, king crab, orange cup corals, rockfish, red irish lords, mosshead warbonnets, sea lions and more, so be sure to have your camera ready.
Wreck of the Del Norte
Vancouver Island boasts an array of dive spots for sea life sightings, but the wreck of the Del Norte offers something in addition to breathtaking creatures and corals. On October 21, 1868, the 190-foot Del Norte was traveling to Victoria when she struck the Canoe Reef. She now rests between 40 and 80 feet underwater. Dive through this protected historical wreck and take home photos of the ship’s remains intertwined with corals, urchins, anemones, and marine life. Diving the wreck of the Del Norte is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
