diving
The waters of the west coast of British Columbia boast some of the
most unique marine creatures found anywhere. The cold water is home to the
Giant Pacific Octopus. These animals grow to an enormous size in the
nutrient rich water, some have been found with an arm span of nine meters
(30 feet) or as large as a Volkswagen bug. In the late summer months the
oldest and most prehistoric of all the sharks rises from the extreme depths
of the ocean to depths shallow enough to be viewed by divers. This is a
very rare event, not yet fully understood by the scientists who study these
Six Gill Sharks. This phenomenon only happens in a few select places in the
world and Vancouver Island is lucky enough to be one of them. Diving with
sea lions, and wrecks covered with life have added to the increased
popularity with dive enthusiasts from around the world.
Dive Sites
- GB Church: 179' cargo vessel. First of the artificial reefs sunk in the Gulf islands for divers. Thirteen years of sitting on the bottom has allowed plenty of life to cling to the wreck of the church. It has now formed its own eco-system and is home to many large Ling Cod. Giant Pacific octopus has made their dens under the keel of the wreck, from there the have an excellent vantage point to spot any passing crabs.
- HMCS Mackenzie: 460' Canadian Destroyer sunk off Gooch Island. By the time the Mackenzie was sunk the artificial reef society had learned much about sinking large ships. The Mackenzie settled up right straight on her keel. The wreck has been made safe for divers with the lower decks sealed off and the upper decks opened up for easier penetration with no sharp edges.
- Octopus Point: Within Satellite Channel Octopus Point is affected by large amounts of current. High current areas are home to filter feeders such as Plumose Anemones, and strawberry anemones. Encrusting sponges also find a place to cling on the wall at Octopus Point. Octopus Point is typically done as a drift dive, starting the dive up current and effortlessly drifting past the colorful wall.
- Tozier Rock: This is a great place to interact with some unique under water animals. 50' under the boat there is a spot where four pairs of Wolf Eels and three Giant Pacific Octopi all live together. Divers can sit on the bottom with the Wolf eels swimming amongst them, and the octopus can be easily coaxed out.
- Semanus Island: On the north west point of Semanus island there is a pinnacle that rises up from 120' to 40' on the top. At the bottom of this pinnacle the very rare Cloud Sponge or glass sponges can be found. These sponges are said to be as old as 9000 years. Divers need must be very careful around these sponges one small touch with your fins could destroy hundreds of years of growth.
