http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html The CoolDives Blog is a great way to know when any exciting, new information is added about scuba diving in British Columbia and scuba diving vacations in British Columbia, Canada. en-us scuba diving vacations Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:49:46 GMT Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:49:46 GMT best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/cooldives_store.html Cool once again - and customizable.. These colorful photo tags are made from very durable hard white plastic that does not bend. In addition to your luggage or dive bag, attach it to your Scuba BC or even your scuba regulators. Your gear will be very easy to find. There is a red dive flag image on one side and can be customized with up to 5 lines of text on the back. They are 2.5 inches in diameter and are attached to your bag by a sturdy, 6 inch stainless steel wire loop with easy screw closure. This tag can also be made up as a key chain. The photo luggage tag makes a great addition to your dive bag, suitcase, golf bag, backpack, briefcase, duffle bag or active sports bags. Dimensions: Approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. Also available - customizable dive mask straps, BCD labels, tank labels, luggage tags, customized wetsuit zipper pulls, and more... Visit Cooldives.com for more details. Like Cooldives on Facebook - win cool prizes. Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:26:56 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/diving_BC.html Diving BC - an online resource all about scuba diving in British Columbia, Canada Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:50:16 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-safari.html A Scuba Safari is an underwater adventure and discovery tour, designed to explore and photograph amazing new sights. Certified scuba divers can book a scuba safari and see why British Columbia is considered one of the Best Dive Destinations in the world. There is so much more to offer here in the beautiful waters of British Columbia than people realize - it is still a relatively unknown dive destination. Once people dive in our amazing waters that are full of life and color, they can’t wait to come back and dive again. Vancouver and Vancouver Island, single day and multi-day dive safaris can be arranged. Be Bold Dive Cold - be cool in British Columbia. Like Cooldives on facebook - win a super cool scuba diving in British Columbia t-shirt. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:08:12 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/courtenay_comox_dive_lessons.html The following Vancouver Island scuba lessons are offered and can be completely customized to meet your schedule and requirements, from Courtenay and Comox, Nanaimo to Campbell River. In addition, value added extras such as gourmet meals, accommodation, upgrades, golf games, overnight dive charters, etc. can be added: PADI Open Water Course •PADI’s beginner certification •Classroom (Instructor led or done online), confined water (pool sessions), and open water (ocean sessions) •Course is modular and can be done over a few months or as little as 3 days if online learning is completed PADI Advanced Open Water •Must have Open Water Certification to take this course •5 specialty dives over 2 days from the boat •Small textbook section for each dive to be completed beforehand •Specialty dives include: Wreck, deep, night, navigation and boat PADI Rescue Diver Course • Must have Advanced Certification to take this course •1 classroom session and 2 days at the ocean doing rescue scenarios •Teaches important dive and rescue skills and builds confidence PADI Divemaster Course •Must have Rescue Certification to take this course •First professional levelof diver •Work for a dive shop or at a PADI resort •Teaches advanced understanding of dive physics, physiology, equipment and decompression theory PADI Specialty Courses •Specialty courses teach specific types of diving or specific skills over 1-2 days and include: Night diving, wreck diving, drysuit diving, deep diving, and enriched air NITROX diving. Be Bold - learn to dive cold in the comfort of a dive charter boat and a drysuit. Visit cooldives.com to learn more about earning your scuba diving license in British Columbia. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:41:15 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/annapolis-sinking-update.html Cooldives is proud to support the creation of Vancouver, British Columbia’s newest and best artificial reef – the Annapolis. Volunteers are going out Thursday, February 16th and possibly Friday, Feb 17th and this weekend, Feb 18th & 19th for another Metals Extraction! They are doing a BBQ with Smokies this weekend so just bring snacks if you wish… NEW VOLUNTEER CONTEST!! The ARSBC will be giving away one prize per month for the next 3 months. First draw at the end of February and will include all volunteers that have come out this month. The more times you come out the more entries you get. One entry per visit, PLUS – Bring a friend – receives an extra entry!! Everyone who comes out is automatically entered to win. Prize draw at the end of each month. This month’s Prize is an Underwater Kinetics D8 Light donated by Ocean Pro!! Thank you!!! More prizes to come each month, including an Aqualung Regulator donated by Ross Hales at Aqualung, plus an Aqualung BCD donated by Ocean Quest Dive Centre and an Aluminum mini cut out replica of our ship – Annapolis & Brass Engine Room Bolt!!! Help sink the Annapolis in 2012 – volunteer today. Fri, 17 Feb 2012 03:07:53 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/index.html Scuba Diving Vacations and tips for diving in British Columbia, Canada - One of World's Best Dive Destinations - info on dive sites,resorts,lessons,equipment,charters,liveaboards,special offers Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:31:15 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#2012-Northwest-Dive-and-Travel-Expo---$20,000-in-prizes Photographers! Get those amazing photos out and find the right one to showcase at the 2012 Dive & Travel Expo Photo Contest. The Dive News Network Media Group is seeking that perfect shot for the grand prize, and will be offering $20,000 in prizes for the winning entries. All entries and winning photos will be shown at the Saturday Night Film Festival held April 21, 2012 at the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center. There are a number of categories from which to enter, including: Wide Angle Cold Environment, Cold Water Close-up, Warm Water Close-up, Wide Angle Warm Environment, Artsy or Creative, Living as a Diver and Environmentally Friendly Photos. Northwest underwater photographers are encouraged to come out and experience the popular 2012 Northwest Dive & Travel Expo and show fellow divers and photo/video enthusiasts what a great underwater photo is supposed to look like. Be Bold - Dive Cold - take photos and win great prizes! Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:28:41 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/annapolis-sinking-update.html The ARSBC is once again going out to the Annapolis this weekend - hopefully both days Feb 4th & 5th if they can get enough volunteers. There has been a long down time with Christmas and the weather, so come on out and bring a friend, or pass this info along to a group of friends. Stay tuned to CoolDives for new contest details – either way you will be entered just by going out this weekend! It's time to sink the Annapolis!! Help get 'her done! Be Bold Dive Cold. Like Cooldives on Facebook - win cool prizes. New CoolDives t-shirts coming soon - and they are awesome. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:17:03 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/greensea_diving.html Another satisfied diver... We had an EXCELLENT day diving together with you…..the food was awesome, except would have loved to try the salad. Overall, you were a pleasure to dive with and I think it was really great of you to recognize the 2nd day was a bust due to weather. Thank you for not charging us! I will be in contact again to dive with you again & will definitely send my friends your way! Lynn L - Victoria, B.C. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:12:21 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_swell_liveaboard.html With just a few spaces left on the Spring, 2012 Nautilus Swell Gulf Island dive trips, CoolDives is pleased to offer free Nitrox for certified users. With departures leaving from the lower mainland of British Columbia, luxurious liveaboard diving in British Columbia has never been easier. Contact Cooldives and book today to receive your free nitrox voucher. Be Bold Dive Cold. And like CoolDives on Facebook to instantly see more dive specials and to enter a draw for a free CoolDives t-shirt. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:26:35 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-safari.html Are you an experienced scuba diver looking for an escorted scuba tour near Vancouver British Columbia? Our preferred PADI divemaster/dive instructor can: - Vancouver pick up and drop off services for yourself and your gear - assistance with discounted rental or scuba gear purchases - transportation to and from dive sites and safe, escorted dives at Vancouver's most popular dive sites, - and a customized scuba diving dvd of your scuba diving vacation in British Columbia He can also upgrade your dive skills, get you drysuit certified and more. Other British Columbia locations with similar services available as well. See CoolDives.com to arrange your British Columbia scuba diving safari now. Be Bold - Dive cool in British Columbia today. Like CoolDives on Facebook - win prizes and be the first to hear about Cooldives special offers. Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:56:46 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_swell_liveaboard.html 4 day, 3 night liveaboard scuba diving charter in British Columbia. Visit the popular southern Gulf Island dive sites of Active Pass, Gabriola Pass and Porlier Pass aboard the luxurious Nautilus Swell liveaboard dive boat. Depart from scenic Steveston, British Columbia on March 29, 2012 and discover the best liveaboard scuba diving in British Columbia. Visit Cooldives.com for more details. Be Bold Dive Cold. Like CoolDives on Facebook - maybe win a CoolDives t-shirt. Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:52:59 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/dive-reviews.html Dive Site Review Near Hornby Island Name: Matt Arnold of GreenSea Diving City: Comox State/Prov: BC Country: Canada What are you reviewing?: Boat Dive Site in the Hornby Island area Name(s): Wall at Heron Rocks Rating: 5 Stars (Fantastic!!) Visibility - How many feet?: 50-75 (January) Details (please explain why): Beautiful wall at the southern end of Hornby Island . Wall Starts at about 50fsw and continues down all the way to 150fsw with a few ledges along the way. You'll see Wolf eels and Octopus if you're lucky as well as the usual suspects like large Ling Cod, white Plumous Anemones, Rock Scallops, lots of rock fish, anemones, various star fish, giant red urchins, and loads of other color and marine life. It's a shear vertical wall with lots of nooks and crannies to explore and with good viz its a stunningly beautiful dive. On the surface you might even find sealions sunbathing on the exposed rock. Nice that it's only 5 minutes from a small marina and safety from the weather if it comes up too. Best wall I have ever dove in BC! Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:53:18 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#Like-CoolDives-on-Facebook---win-a-free-Be-Bold-Dive-Cold-T-shirt CoolDives is a website devoted to promoting and informing divers from around the world all about the amazing diving in British Columbia - home to world class cold water diving. Special offers and British Columbia and Alaska dive information will be posted early on our Facebook page. Like us and each time we reach 100 new friends, a draw will be held for one of our custom British Columbia diving t-shirts. Like us - Look cool Cooldives.com Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:02:50 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/annapolis-sinking-update.html Click the link for an Annapolis Sinking Update. The ARSBC really needs volunteers to help finish up final details on the Annapolis sinking project! The ship has changed quite a bit, so if you haven’t been out in a while please come on out and see all the changes and get to know the ship again since some of the walls have come down. We are so close, but just need to finish final details! Come on out and bring a friend! Thank you to all that have gotten us this far. We are going out Thursday, Jan 26th and also this weekend, Januuary 28th & 29th, 2012. We have had a long down time with Christmas and the weather, so come on out and bring a friend, or pass our info along to a friend. ARSBC Thu, 26 Jan 2012 02:07:21 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/courtenay_comox_dive_lessons.html For Vancouver Island scuba diving lessons, particularly in the Courtenay/Comox area, we recommend you consider GreenSea Diving if you want private or semi-private lessons. In addition to the customized training which ensures the speed of the course can be adjusted based on your understanding and ability to carry out the required tasks, private or semi-private dive lessons can also allow you to complete the course on your schedule and timeframe. You can obtain your Open Water and other scuba certifications in 3 days or less, depending on the course. "Matt from GreenSea Diving is a good instructor with loads of experience. He makes learning to dive fun and safe. Scuba diving has opened a whole new world for me. I love it!" Chris Copeman - Vancouver Island To learn how to dive, or for Vancouver Island scuba diving charters and dive holidays, visit CoolDives.com today and start having FUN! Lose weight too and look like a star! Thu, 26 Jan 2012 01:27:00 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#Growing-fitness-trend---scuba-diving-for-everyone-including-celebrities What do Jessica Alba, Sandra Bullock, Katie Holmes and Nina Dobrev (among many others) have in common? According to Shape.com, these celebrities are all burning tons of calories and tightening their bodies while enjoying the recreational sport of scuba diving. With each dive lasting between 30-60 minutes, divers can easily enjoy the amazing undersea world while burning 500 or more calories. And if you're enjoying the amazing, nutrient rich, colorful, world-class diving that British Columbia, Canada offers, you will burn even more calories! With the extra dive gear needed, weight, and possible currents that are part of scuba diving in British Columbia, you will enjoy diving more and burn more calories. And Jessica, if you need a dive buddy to help you explore the beautiful Emerald Sea, CoolDives will be happy to help! Be Bold - Dive Cold. Lose weight, have fun, get in shape, and dive safe today in the world famous, star studded, dive destination that is British Columbia. Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:59:11 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/cooldives_store.html Kelp and Critters is an inspirational, fund raising dvd put together by some well known Pacific Northwest marine stewards, Peter Mieras and Kathy Johnson. This collection of often unique footage represents 3 years of underwater filming, tide-pool watching and above water footage. With memorable images of wild orcas, breaching humpbacks, mysterious six gill sharks, colorful corals, sponges and other invertebrate life, proceeds from the sale of this souvenir diving in British Columbia dvd will be put towards worthwhile local environmental and marine causes. The dvd is only $20 plus HST and is compatible with dvd players world-wide. For more information, a sneak peak, and to order, click the link below. Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:22:31 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/alaska_liveaboard_diving.html Thanks to the amazing success of the Nautilus Swell's first BC/Alaska dive season in 2011, the 2012 Alaska liveaboard dive season is almost 100 per cent sold out. A few single spots are available, and there is one trip available as a full boat charter for 12 divers. If you want to experience eagles, seals, sea lions, humpback whales, ice bergs, snorkeling with salmon, bears, beautiful topside scenery and amazing underwater diving, contact cooldives today. Be Bold - Dive Cold. But with a drysuit, it isn't cold anyways!! Dive Alaska - contact cooldives today for more details Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:20:16 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/greensea_diving.html Attention - divers, skiers and boarders out there. Come to Vancouver Island and stay at this luxury vacation rental in Crown Isle Resort in the beautiful Comox Valley. This VanIsle Getaway is only 40 min from the chairlift at Mt Washington and has all the comforts of home with all the amenities of a high end hotel. Only $150/night and it can sleep up to 5 people. This Vancouver Island sport enthusiast offers many extra services to enhance your dive or ski holiday experience like our personal chef, in house Diving and Boat charters, famous concierge service and as always, no cleaning fee. Come stay for the weekend and hit the slopes or the Pacific Ocean or stay for a week and take in all the recreation that the Comox Valley has to offer. Visit Cooldives.com today for more details. Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:31:15 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/bc_dive_packages.html Now offering complete scuba diving vacation packages on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. 3 day, 6 day, and custom packages available with: - escorted dive charters - boat dives - Crown Isle Golf Resort accommodation - local transportation - chef prepared lunches and dinners. Visit Cooldives.com to help plan your British Columbia dive holiday today. Mon, 09 Jan 2012 02:06:11 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_island_dive_charters.html Vancouver Island Dive Charters from Port Hardy to Victoria on Vancouver Island Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:51:31 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/crown_isle_accommodation.html Crown Isle Accommodation - Luxury Golf and Scuba Vacation Packages On Central Vancouver Island Sun, 08 Jan 2012 01:01:47 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/bc_dive_packages.html Scuba Diving Vacations on Vancouver Island British Columbia are a breeze with our new complete, cost effective, convenient and centrally located dive holiday packages on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. With many fantastic boat dives, drift dives, wall dives and wreck dives (natural and artificial) between Campbell River and Nanaimo, a luxury 2 bedroom condo situated on one of Vancouver Island’s most prestigious golf courses, and meals provided by and prepared by a chef, these complete Vancouver Island scuba diving packages make for an ideal scuba diving vacation in British Columbia, Canada. Even better, you can even learn to dive or possibly even add on extra PADI certification courses onto your BC dive packages, such as Drysuit certification, Advanced, Rescue Diver, Divemaster or other PADI specialty courses (such as night diving, wreck diving, drysuit diving, deep diving, and enriched air NITROX diving) with this PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer. And even better than that – the dives are all from a boat so no lugging your heavy equipment all over the place! Contact CoolDives.com to plan your scuba diving vacation in British Columbia, Canada today. Sat, 07 Jan 2012 20:39:46 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#British-Columbia---Top-Dive-Destination-in-North-America---come-see-why Why does CoolDives.com love scuba diving in British Columbia? Once again British Columbia has been nominated Best dive destination for North America, Best in marine life, healthiest marine environment, Best macro photography, Best wall dives, and more. Thanks once again Scuba Diving Magazine and divers from around the world. Let Cooldives.com help plan your next scuba diving vacation to British Columbia. Sat, 07 Jan 2012 18:15:43 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/courtenay_comox_dive_lessons.html Courtenay Comox Dive Lessons, Victoria to Port Hardy - Obtain Your Scuba License on Vancouver Island British Columbia Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:12:54 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_island_dive.html Vancouver Island dive packages, lessons, accommodations and dive charters - amazing prices Thu, 05 Jan 2012 04:07:30 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/bc_dive_packages.html BC Dive Packages - full Vancouver Island dive charter, meals and accommodation vacation packages Thu, 05 Jan 2012 04:02:35 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/special_dive_offers.html CoolDives is pleased to offer this limited time special dive offer for people who wish to learn how to scuba dive in the world class dive destination of British Columbia. This complete PADI Open Water Certification package includes: - eLearning course before hand and 3 days of open water course diving with all required pool and ocean dives - an extra day of awesome instructor-guided diving after your certification - use of all required scuba gear - Special Bonus: drysuit certification included! - 3 nights of luxury accommodation in a beautiful 2 bedroom VanIsle Getaway located in Comox, in the heart of Crown Isle, a beautiful residential neighbourhood designed around a platinum rated golf course. - transportation to and from your pool and boat dives - chef prepared gourmet lunch and dinners - a Cooldives ‘Be Bold Dive Cold’ t-shirt for each diver Visit our Vancouver Island Special Dive and Accommodation page for more details. Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:53:56 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#Why-is-Port-Hardy-Diving-So-Amazing This wonderful trip report, prepared by a recent Cooldives/Browning Pass Hideaway guest, provides a wonderful perspective from a German visitor to British Columbia. Read his review, see his pictures, and learn why diving in Port Hardy, British Columbia offers some of the best cold water diving in the world. Be Bold - Dive Cold in British Columbia today. Visit Cooldives.com for more details about diving in beautiful British Columbia today. Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:12:10 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_swell_liveaboard.html Convenient Vancouver departures. 4 dive days in the Gulf Island trips from only $795* Pick your favourite Gulf Island dive destination. Every weekend this coming spring, the 90 foot Nautilus Swell will be departing Vancouver for a short easy sail across to the Gulf Islands. Pick your trip and destinations ranging from Porlier, Active and Gabriola Passes, Dodd Narrows, wrecks and artificial reefs, Lasqueti and Texada Island and Sechelt Inlet. Diving has never been easier with only 12 divers on our 38 foot high speed skiff "Inde". Sample itinerary: Day 1: noon board. 1 p.m. depart from Steveston. 2 dives Day 2: 3 dives + night dive Day 3: 3 dives Day 4: 2 dives and then return to Steveston 4 pm. Making their guests happy is Job #1. Dive schedule may vary according to weather and itinerary. And for all Nautilus old friends who have joined them on these trips over the years, book a trip within the next month, email us the full name of the skiff (hint: Inde is the shortened name) and we'll comp your nitrox, buy you a drink at the ship's bar courtesy of Captain Mike and make a donation to the Socorro Conservation Fund. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:46:41 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_swell_liveaboard.html Back by popular demand - Gulf Island liveaboard adventures on the Nautilus Swell with departures from Steveston, British Columbia. Fantastic 4 day dive experiences aboard the best liveaboard dive ship in British Columbia and Alaska. Fantastic dive sites, limited spaces available. Book now. Visit cooldives.com for more details. Sun, 18 Dec 2011 23:08:08 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver_swell_liveaboard.html Vancouver Swell Liveaboard Adventures - Fantastic liveaboard dive trips departing from near Vancouver, British Columbia Sun, 18 Dec 2011 22:39:35 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#Custom-Dive-Equipment-Tags-and-Labels-for-Christmas Perfect gifts for scuba divers and pretty much anyone, these various waterproof custom equipment label tags can be customized, embroidered, and emblazoned with your dive store logo, name or pictures. Choose from customized luggage tags, scuba equipment labels, air tank label wraps, BCD tags, custom embroidered dive mask straps, custom wetsuit zipper pulls, picture i.d. tags, and more. Click the link to find out more, and make your diver or sporting enthusiast happy this Christmas. Other Cooldives Christmas presents for divers in British Columbia so far include bronze marine life sculptures, liveaboard adventures in Alaska or British Columbia on the Nautilus Swell, and luxury dive weekend getaways at the Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa. Be Bold Dive Cold - scuba diving vacations for divers in British Columbia. Visit Cooldives.com for these and other special offers, and buy your CoolDives t-shirts for cool divers today. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 01:42:58 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/simon_morris_sculptures.html The Cooldives Christmas suggestion for today is perfect for divers and non divers - custom bronze marine sculptures from British Columbia wildlife artist Simon Morris. These beautiful bronze statues are in limited supply so you will have to contact the artist through Cooldives ASAP to see if delivery is possible. Marine sculptures include bronze mermaid statues, bronze humpback or orca whale sculptures, bronze giant pacific octopus statues,bronze diver statues, manatee sculptures and custom pieces. In addition to these timeless art pieces, Simon Morris is well known among divers for his Emerald Princess and Amphritite mermaid statues that are sunk near Powell River and Grand Cayman Island. Order your British Columbia diving Christmas presents today. See cooldives.com for more information and suggestions. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 23:14:05 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/dive-reviews.html Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa (near Victoria, BC) Reviewed by: Paul City: Surrey State/Prov: BC What are you reviewing?: Hotel/B&B/Scuba Diving Lodge Name(s): Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa Rating: 5 Stars (Fantastic!!) Details (please explain why): What a beautiful resort with a great waterfront location! It is a little tucked away, but once you are there it is like being in another luxurious, relaxing world. Perfect for romantic getaways, business meetings, spa get-aways with a group of girlfriends, and of course, scuba diving in beautiful Saanich Inlet. The lobby, the on-site restaurant, pub, spa, and all the other amenities including the pool and hottub with the fantastic views are beautiful, and the spacious rooms have a special 'zen' feel as you enter and enjoy the beautiful water view from every room. We spent two days there and enjoyed every minute. Thanks for posting the Cooldives Winter special offer - it was a beautiful weekend! We're already planning our next dive weekend at this luxury spa resort! Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:48:04 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/CoolDives_Newsletters_and_Special_Offers-Revised-cool-dive-newsletter-four-Dec-2011.html Diving in British Columbia just got better with these limited 4 days and 3 nights mini-liveaboard British Columbia dive trips on the Nautilus Swell. Loads of diving, visiting old favourites ranging from the stunning invertebrate life of Dodd Narrows to secret dive sites in Active Pass, destroyers and wrecks galore all from the luxury of a 90 foot diveboat catering to just 12 divers and a 38 foot high speed skiff. Did we mention that the ship has a hot tub, private staterooms with ensuite facilities and all the touches expected on a world class liveaboard. The pricing on these trips will astound you. Merry Christmas to all and to all a great dive! Contact cooldives.com to book this magical diving Christmas present today. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:10:45 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/CoolDives_Newsletters_and_Special_Offers-backissues.html The latest issue of the Cooldives newsletter has been released. Click the link to see what's new for scuba diving vacations in British Columbia, Canada - home of the world's best cold water diving. Do you have some cool dive news for BC - let us know and we'll consider it for our next issue. Sign up to receive future issues and special offers and discounts. Be Bold - Dive Cold - in British Columbia today. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:57:26 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/cooldives_store.html Cooldives is pleased to announce our daily suggestion for Christmas gifts for scuba divers. Today's suggestion is a Be Bold Dive Cold T-shirt - perfect for promoting your love of the fantastic cold water diving that British Columbia offers. Available in black or white, these scuba diver Christmas gifts will be worn with pride. Who needs warm water!? Order yours today to ensure delivery in time for Christmas. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:52:40 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/luxury_spa_resort.html We just returned from a wonderful 2 night stay at the Luxurious west coast Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa and are pleased to promote it as the best spot to get away for a beautiful, relaxing Victoria, British Columbia get-away. From the moment you walk into the beautiful and tranquil, west-coast inspired lobby, with the view through the Seagrill restaurant to the ocean, you will instantly unwind. The spacious rooms, with their 'zen-like' atmosphere, natural gas fireplace, warm colors, large bathroom and ocean views, are welcoming and relaxing. The ocean front, heated outdoor pool and hot-tub, followed by a relaxing session at the on-site spa - is amazing. The walk down to the marina is wonderful, and with their on-site PADI accredited dive center, it couldn't be easier to relax, dive, dine, and enjoy an amazing getaway. Winter prices are in affect right now, and this makes for an amazing get-away just minutes away from the ferry terminal and from Victoria, British Columbia. Book your stay at the Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa through Cooldives and receive a complimentary Be Bold Dive Cold in British Columbia t-shirt. Contact cooldives.com for more details today. Sun, 04 Dec 2011 23:47:46 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/nautilus_swell.html Cooldives and the Nautilus Swell are proud to announce the ‘Best Diving BC’ Gulf Island and Nanaimo area mini liveaboard dive trips are back! A limited number of 3 night return trips departing Nanaimo on the evenings of March 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2012 are available, where you can enjoy a classic First class liveaboard dive experience and the west coast charm of the Nautilus Swell while diving some of the top dive sites in the Nanaimo and Gulf Island Area. Prices start as low as $795 US per berth – contact Cooldives today for more details. Berths are limited. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:23:14 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/special_dive_offers.html Winter pricing is now in effect with big savings on a luxury 5 Star 2 night diving adventure package near Victoria, British Columbia including: - 2 nights of luxurious accommodation at the Five Star Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa near the dive areas of Sidney and Victoria, British Columbia. - Gourmet breakfast for 2 each day at the Lodge restaurant. - a 2 tank boat dive in Saanich Inlet for 2 certified divers. - 2 free 'Be Bold Dive Cold' diving in British Columbia Cooldives t-shirts. The winter prices for this beautiful resort on southern Vancouver Island are great, and the visibility and diving are wonderful. Contact cooldives.com today for more details. Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:49:34 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/dive_travel_insurance.html Dive travel insurance - for diving, snorkeling, touring, or any adventure travel, choose the proper travel insurance for you - competitive rates Sat, 12 Nov 2011 03:48:46 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/support-files/annapolis-contest.pdf The sinking of the Annapolis as an artificial reef near Vancouver, British Columbia will be a historic and unique moment for some lucky winners. Effective now, every volunteer that helps in the final preparation of the Annapolis will have a chance to win a once in a life time opportunity. The Prize will go to 4 lucky winners. - Be aboard the Annapolis in the final week before sinking to witness the final preparations. - An opportunity to have your names placed on the ship as the 4 winning volunteers. - Join the ARSBC as the first volunteers to dive the ship before it is open to the public. - Be their guest at the project gala social event. - One of the four winners will win a main prize and will be announced at the social event. Follow the link for more details and contest rules. Be a part of this historic event and help the ARSBC sink the Annapolis today. Fri, 11 Nov 2011 22:57:16 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/best-wall-dive.html In the January/February 2012 issue of Scuba Diving magazine, they will reveal the top five scuba diving destinations for Best Wall Dives in their annual Top 100 Readers' Choice Awards. In 2011, one of the top five wall dives as ranked by overall score was Browning Wall in British Columbia, Canada. "The spectacular western Canadian province is gorgeous from top to bottom and its claim to having the world's best temperate climate diving is hard to dispute. From anemone-carpeted rocks crawling with marine life to weird and wonderful creatures like nudibranchs and wolf eels, this is your destination. Dives around small islets begin at slack tide, featuring sheer rock walls below surface that are packed with bizarre marine life. " One such wall dive is Browning Pass Wall near Port Hardy, British Columbia. For more information about the best ways to experience one of the world's best and most colorful wall dives, contact cooldives.com today. Sun, 23 Oct 2011 21:21:10 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/best-wall-dive.html In the January/February 2012 issue of Scuba Diving magazine, they will reveal the top five scuba diving destinations for Best Wall Dives in their annual Top 100 Readers' Choice Awards. In 2011, one of the top five wall dives as ranked by overall score was Browning Wall in British Columbia, Canada. "The spectacular western Canadian province is gorgeous from top to bottom and its claim to having the world's best temperate climate diving is hard to dispute. From anemone-carpeted rocks crawling with marine life to weird and wonderful creatures like nudibranchs and wolf eels, this is your destination. Dives around small islets begin at slack tide, featuring sheer rock walls below surface that are packed with bizarre marine life. " One such wall dive is Browning Pass Wall near Port Hardy, British Columbia. For more information about the best ways to experience one of the world's best and most colorful wall dives, contact cooldives.com today. Sun, 23 Oct 2011 21:20:39 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/vancouver-dive-charter.html The vizibility around Nanaimo and Vancouver/Howe Sound has been great and Sea Dragon Charters has spaces available this weekend. Howe Sound/Vancouver diving spots on Saturday and Sunday October 22/23, and Nanamio spots available only on Saturday October 22nd. Contact Cooldives for your Vancouver and Vancouver Island, British Columbia diving options. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 03:40:53 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/scuba-diving-blog.html#Now-Shipping---Nautilus-Lifeline-VHF-Marine-Radio/GPS-for-Divers Nautilus Lifelines, with their new 'Locate Me Technology'for divers, are now shipping within North America. Two and a half years in the making, these exciting new VHF marine radios with GPS coordinates and DSC compatability are being shipped in order of their purchase date. Initially, quantities are limited since the production facility cannot keep up with demand, so orders your today to ensure delivery prior to the Christmas rush. To find out more about their Locate Me Technology, contact Cooldives or Nautilus Lifelines today.... Tue, 18 Oct 2011 23:04:24 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/nautilus_swell.html After my recent 10 day liveaboard dive adventure in Alaska, I have no problem recommending the Nautilus Swell as the best way to explore the best dive sites in British Columbia, Canada. Starting back up as early as February 2012, the Swell will offer 3, 5 and 7 night BC liveaboard trips, visiting some of the best British Columbia dive sites including Browning Pass, Deserter Group, Seymour Inlet, Browning Pass, Nakwakto Rapids, Stubbs Island, Pearse Islands and more. With the popularity of her inaugral year in 2011, trips are selling out fast. For more information about liveaboard diving in British Columbia and Alaska for groups or individuals, contact cooldives.com. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:08:11 GMT http://www.best-scuba-diving-vacations-in-british-columbia.com/special_dive_offers.html It's that time of year again - clear water, excellent visibility, great diving and fall pricing on first class, luxury diving at the Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa near Victoria, British Columbia. And book your weekend dive trip getaway through Cooldives and receive one of our new Be Bold Dive Cold t-shirts for free. But take it off before your spa treatment - wouldn't want to ruin it before you get back home. Contact cooldives for more information. Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:54:48 GMT