Diving In British Columbia

How Cool Is Cool?

Diving in British Columbia is a great way to discover that the incredible, clean, cool, clear, emerald green waters of the Pacific Ocean contain an incredible variety of marine animal life.

In fact, Rodale’s Scuba Diver Reader Choice Awards has labeled British Columbia as having some of the Best Fish Life, Best Big Animals to Dive With, Best Dive Destination and the Healthiest Marine Environment in the world.

Get a small taste of scuba diving in British Columbia with this great video clip on YouTube

Cool Water - Great Dives

CoolDives.com

Depending on where you usually dive, our water will either feel cool, very cool, or damn cold to you!

But by using a thick wet suit or a warm dry suit, your above and below water adventure in British Columbia will be extremely memorable – a dive vacation of a lifetime!

Our Emerald green water is clear, beautiful and full of life.

The water temperature will vary a little depending on the air temperature, the depth of your dive, and the currents, but to try and scuba dive British Columbia is to love it!

You'll be back soon.

The summer surface water temperature generally ranges from 12 to 18 degrees Celsius (54 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit) and the winter range is from 4 to 8 degrees Celsius (39 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit). No problem!

Once you gather up your courage and gear, hop in the water, and dive below around 10 meters (30 feet), the water temperature remains fairly constant at around 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit).

You may notice a bit of a temperature decrease as you head below 70 feet, but once you’re in – you’re in.

Relax, breathe slowly, and enjoy the wonderful underwater sites.

Locals and tourists from around the world dive in and around Vancouver, British Columbia year round.

Since the water is cool year round anyways, and the water becomes more clear during fall and winter, try diving and then skiing at any of our world renowned local ski hills or at Whistler.

You can save money and enjoy more dives by planning a winter scuba diving and skiing holiday.

The visibility can be up to 30 meters (100 feet) or more!

Vancouver does get a little wet sometimes. We are part of a temperate rain forest and that is why everywhere is so lush and green.

Unfortunately, the spring run-off and heavy spring rains can sometimes cloud the water.

When you choose a great dive shop or charter operator, they will know where the best conditions and the best dive sites are.

Check around yourself or check out my links on this site.

In addition to some extra run-off, we are susceptible to periods of plankton growth in some areas.

There can be two blooms – one sometime between March and May, and the other sometime between late August and early October. The blooms can impair the first 10 meters (30 feet) of water so ensure you dive in a clear spot or at least in a deep location.

Again, by choosing a quality dive shop or charter operator, they will know where the best conditions and the best dive sites are.

Check around yourself or check out the recommended dive operators listed on my site.

For more 'cool water' diving tips, see my other diving in British Columbia tips.

I would love to be able to send you out our newsletter, scuba diving in BC special offers and other interesting dive information from time to time.

Your information will remain confidential and will not be sold or used for any other purposes.

Please fill out the following form - you can opt out any time you wish.