Diving in British Columbia Blog

Oct 13, Best British Columbia Diving

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:08:11 GMT

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.

Sep 29, First Class Spa, Accommodation and Diving in Victoria, British Columbia

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:54:48 GMT

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.

Sep 25, Day 7 of my 10 day adventure on the Nautilus Swell in Alaska

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 03:47:23 GMT

Even though we were already 7 days into this fantastic Alaska 10 day adventure, every new day continues to excite all the guests aboard the Nautilus Swell. If you were to poll all the divers about what they were hoping to see during this spectacular photographers paradise, you would certainly discover that the Swell and her crew has already exceeded all of their expectations. From bald eagles and bears on shore eating the spawning salmon that we saw on our two snorkeling trips, humpback whales bubble net feeding so close we could smell their breath, seals and sealions and glaciers on the surface, to giant pacific octopus, wolf eels, Alaska king crabs, Puget sound king crabs, decorator crabs, decorated war bonnets, red Irish lords, all kinds and colors of anemones, starfish and nudibranchs and more under the water. Whether its topside or underwater photography you are interested in, or both, this trip has certainly been a photographers paradise! With memories engrained in my mind and on digital media, the images of Alaska will last a lifetime. Thank you Nautilus Swell and crew for a wonderful Alaska liveaboard adventure, and I am eagerly looking forward to each remaining day. My Alaska trip review and photos will be posted shortly. Next up The Best of British Columbia trips, which offer amazing cool water dive experiences for divers in the northern Vancouver Island area, known for more of the best cool water diving in the world. For more information about liveaboard dive holidays in British Columbia or Alaska, go to cooldives.com today.

Aug 30, Diving near Beautiful Port Hardy British Columbia

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:32:09 GMT

Once again, the amazing British Columbia dive area of Port Hardy has made it's way into another popular dive publication. This month's on-line XRay magazine has a great article and beautiful photos of Port Hardy as submitted by Barb Roy and Wayne Grant. Click the link to view the article. For more information about diving in British Columbia, diving Port Hardy, or diving aboard the Nautilus Swell liveaboard dive boat visit CoolDives.com today.

Aug 13, CoolDives Store now officially open for divers in British Columbia

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 19:39:25 GMT

It's been a long time in the making, but the CoolDives online store is now officially open! Our first line of products for sale are custom "Be Bold Dive Cold" scuba diving in British Columbia t-shirt. Available in black or white, these colorful tees are sure to impress your friends and dive buddies. Take one (or more) home for a souvenir reminder of your amazing scuba diving vacation in British Columbia, Canada. Our second line of souvenirs is comprised of custom bronze marine sculptures by British Columbia sculptor, Simon Morris. Beautiful bronze orca, mermaid, humpback, octopus and other sculptures are available for purchase. More items to come - check back often for more exciting additions. Be Bold - Dive Cold - experience the amazing waters of British Columbia or Alaska today!

Aug 13, Be Bold Dive Cold Scuba Diving in British Columbia T-shirts

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 03:37:20 GMT

Finally - our first line of CoolDives 'Be Bold Dive Cold' in British Columbia T-shirts are ready to buy and wear! Available in black or white, these 100 cotton shirts are available in sizes small to X-Large. Be proud of the amazing diving in British Columbia, and show other divers from around the world how colorful and full of marine life the waters of British Columbia are. Prices are $25 each and that price includes shipping by Canada Post anywhere in the world. Until we get our Paypal buttons up and our store page created, just contact Cooldives and we'll give you our Paypal details. Be Bold - Dive Cold!

Aug 1, Artificial Reefs in British Columbia - an Oasis of Marine Life

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:12:14 GMT

The advantages of creating artificial reefs have been studied and verified over many years. Just a few reasons to support properly prepared artificial wrecks include: - the creation of an 'oasis of life' which is a suitable habitat for marine life to begin, grow and flourish - providing a safe laboratory in an otherwise natural environment for the study of marine life - further enhance British Columbia's reputation as a world class, award winning scuba diving destination - with amazing scenery, many varieties of abundant marine life and colorful reefs comes scuba divers, amateur and professional photographers, journalists and magazine editors who are amazed by the color and variety of marine life in British Columbia, who then promote Diving in British Columbia, which attracts more and more divers and other visitors to our wonderful province, which in-turn provides for direct and indirect economic growth for our small tourism dependent communities as well as our larger cities throughout B.C. - provides a safe, controlled environment for divers to learn how to properly and safely dive on wrecks (both natural and artificial wrecks) and obtain their Wreck Diver certification, - and reduces the number of divers who visit our many other natural, historical wrecks which in turn helps to preserve them for others to enjoy well into the future. See Cooldives.com to book your wreck trek diving adventure in British Columbia today.

Jul 25, HMCS Annapolis Update

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 21:37:27 GMT

The excitement in the British Columbia scuba diving industry is building as the work of numerous volunteers is getting the HMCS Annapolis closer to sinking. I spent Saturday July 23rd on the Annapolis, along with 20-25 other great volunteers - some divers and some not. We all worked non-stop as a team to extract even more metal, pipes, file cabinets, and more from deep within the ship. And of course, the dedicated leaders Howie and Deirdre were there working hard alongside the team as always. The next day, the Discovery Channel had their show on about the sinking of British Columbia's other artificial reefs. It was amazing to see how fast life forms on these structures and I am looking forward to diving on the Annapolis ASAP after the sinking. Not that I needed a reward for volunteering my time on this worthy cause, but I won a great new pair of fins - so thanks to the ARSBC and their supporters. Be a part of dive history and volunteer a day to help. The more helpers, the sooner she sinks.

Jul 22, Another Satisfied BC Diver

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:24:10 GMT

Hi Paul, I had a great time! I stayed at Cedar Beach Ocean Lodge with Andy and Virginia Lamb who by the way were very interesting and hospitable. I also had the honour to dive with Peter Luckum. We dove the tip of Norway island, The Robert Kerr, The Del Norte, The 737, and a Sea Wall. Thank you for all your help! This was a great experience and I will be back to Dive BC. Stephen

Jul 19, $200 Bar Credit on the Nautilus Swell or Nautilus Explorer

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 04:24:08 GMT

CoolDives exclusive special dive offer for liveaboard diving in British Columbia, Alaska or Mexico! See the great white sharks of Guadalupe, the humpbacks and grizzlies of Alaska or the graceful yet powerful orcas of British Columbia. Book your 2011 liveaboard dive vacation on either the Nautilus Swell or the Nautilus Explorer through CoolDives and you will receive a free $200 onboard credit. This credit can be used for any of their many premium wines, delicious micro-brews, or top shelf liquors, or can be used for onboard purchases of Nautilus wear or equipment rental. Fantastic diving, amazing meals, brilliant topside scenery, stunning wildlife above and below the surface, cool water or warm water diving and an experience of a lifetime! Enjoy the Nautilus experience with CoolDives today.

Jul 15, Waterproof Dive Equipment Tags and Labels

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 19:07:07 GMT

We found these great new dive equipment tags that make labeling and identifying your dive gear quick and easy. Quickly identify your dive gear from all the others at dive resorts and on dive charter boats, or have lost or dropped items returned to you when found. Also available are - Custom embroidered scuba tank and bcd labels - Custom embroidered dive mask straps - Custom dive luggage tags, and - Custom embroidered wetsuit zipper pulls They are waterproof and scratch resistant, which makes them an ideal way to label pretty much any dive gear that has a way to fasten the dive equipment gear with the supplied zip tie. Great price too - visit cooldives.com for more details.

Jul 12, 2011 Liveaboard diving on the Nautilus Swell selling out fast

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:25:49 GMT

The inaugral season of the Nautilus Swell liveaboard dive boat that visits the best diving sites in British Columbia and Alaska is quickly selling out. Due to a recent cancellation, the most popular trip, repositioning from Juneau to Port Hardy, departing Sept. 10, has a few spots. The Oct 9th Best of BC trip has a couple of spots and that's it. The Aug 27 Sitka to Juneau and the Sept 10 Sitka to Juneau trip have a few spots and that's it too. Experience the best diving in BC and Alaska from a luxury liveaboard. Contact CoolDives.com today for more information.

Jul 3, Drysuit certification for diving in British Columbia

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 19:28:39 GMT

At Cooldives, we frequently get asked whether you can use a wetsuit to dive in British Columbia or if you need a dry suit. While some people do dive year round in a 7mm wetsuit, most divers who like to dive here on a regular basis get their drysuit certification. So yesterday, I hired a terrific Vancouver dive instructor and spent the day at Whytecliffe Park earning my drysuit certification. The 1 day course was easy and enjoyable, the drysuit I selected was very comfortable, and I am now officially dry suit certified. I can't wait for my next dive in British Columbia. Contact Cooldives.com to explore your options for drysuit training and other scuba diving lessons in British Columbia.

Jun 29, Diving in Alaska - a photographer's paradise - really!!

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 03:19:11 GMT

Diving in British Columbia and Alaska, the last frontier of America, is a photographer and videographer's paradise. Really - check out these underwater and topside videos from a recent guest on the Nautilus Swell. The colors, the variety of macro life, the incredible beauty above and below the water, and the all around spectacular scenery make Alaska a top to do before I'm 40'ish item..... Watch the Alaska Underwater World video - long or short version, and the Alaska Topside video, and then contact Cooldives to book your Alaska liveaboard dream dive vacation today.

Jun 25, Diving BC - News about the fantastic diving in British Columbia, Canada

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 21:39:39 GMT

Diving BC - an online resource all about scuba diving in British Columbia, Canada

Jun 12, Annapolis Sinking Update

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 04:32:52 GMT

The first environmental inspection of the former HMCS Annapolis has been completed and we are getting closer to having an artificial reef very close to Vancouver in Howe Sound. Click on the link to read the open letter to volunteers from the ARSBC and please do your part to help sink the Annapolis. This is sure to play a huge role in attracting even more scuba divers to British Columbia - a fantastic scuba diving destination.

Jun 10, Vancouver Scuba Diving

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 03:41:03 GMT

Vancouver has been having great visibility again and were really excited about a new spot our favorite Vancouver dive charter operator found called "The Dragons Den". They still have room for divers on Saturday and Sunday (June 11 & 12) in both Nanaimo and Howe Sound. Visibility last weekend was over 80 feet ! Heres their note on The Dragons Den: "We found a GREAT new site we are planning to dive again on Sunday this weekend we are calling it the Dragons Den. Beautiful wall with nice cavernous overhang at 65 full of life including plumous anenomes hanging upside down inside the cavern" Visit Cooldives.com to learn more about diving in Vancouver British Columbia.

Jun 8, Reminder - British Columbia was Number 1 in North America value for diving dollar in 2011

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 03:04:15 GMT

Just a reminder that in the 2011 Readers Choice Awards, British Columbia was once again the best bang for your diving dollar. Per Scuba Diving Magazine "Its not so much the exchange rate, or the multitude of dive shops and boats on this Canadian dive island. Its just that they like to dive, and to take you to see things youll not experience anywhere else. So they make it reasonable and easy (and the Vancouver Island Canadians are just so dang friendly about it too). After dives on bountiful shipwrecks off Nanaimo, Victoria and Campbell River (there are 1.5 shipwrecks per mile here, including the famed Saskatchewan, Cape Breton and Riv Tow), seeing the primitive six-gill sharks off Barkley Sound and such cool critters as monkey-faced eels, wolf eels, sea lions and giant Pacific octopuses on the big side, and hooded nudibranchs on the small side, youll have one single compulsion: to emigrate" Oh yeah - British Columbia was Number 1 in Overall Rating of the Diving too! See Cooldives.com to find out why.

Jun 7, Be Bold - Dive Cold - Explore Alaska and Fly For Free

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:25:24 GMT

Book your amazing summer 2011 Alaska liveaboard dive vacation on the new Nautilus Swell with Cooldives.com and receive a free airfare credit for your standard return airfare to Juneau or Sitka from Vancouver or Seattle. The diving in Alaska is equally as fantastic as diving the best Port Hardy area of British Columbia dive sites, and has even more biodiversity and unique critters. But in addition, you also have extra topside activities in Alaska, such as searching for grizzly bears on the shore, snorkeling or kayaking amongst the calving ice chunks from the Conte Glacier, searching for sea lions, humpback whales, or rafts of floating sea otters, and sometimes even shore hikes amongst the Alaska wilderness. Be Bold - Dive Cold (Trademark cooldives.com) Visit Cooldives.com to learn more today.

May 26, HMCS Annapolis Sinking Update - Time for Environmental Inspection

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:32:25 GMT

All hands on deck for the sinking of the former HMCS Annapolis! The highly anticipated creation of BC's newest artificial reef for great scuba diving is nearing the sinking date, with the Environmental Permit evaluation set to occur on June 6th. Volunteers are needed on both days (May 28 and 29) this weekend to help ensure she is ready. Please click the link and contact the ARSBC - and get out there and sink the ship.

May 25, Special Socorro Dive Offer on the Nautilus Explorer

Wed, 25 May 2011 05:22:33 GMT

While we generally just promote scuba diving in British Columbia (and a little in Alaska), we are proud to promote a great British Columbia dive company - the Nautilus Explorer. JUNE IS THE SEASON FOR SCHOOLING SILKY SHARKS IN MEXICO. Socorro Island offers more than just the friendliest giant mantas in the world. In late spring it is also home to amazing schools of silky sharks. COOLDIVES BOOKING SPECIAL June 22, 2011 - Book your 9 days 8 nights Socorro and Silky Shark liveaboard dive trip through Cooldives and receive a value added package worth up to $1500. This package includes an accommodation upgrade while space is available, prior night hotel, complimentary nitrox, reimbursement of airport transfers and a $100 bar credit. Also includes port and park fees. Check out this amazing special dive offer and book today before the bunks are full.

May 19, Alaska Liveaboard Scuba Diving - Wow!

Thu, 19 May 2011 15:26:32 GMT

We just read this blog post from the divemaster on the Nautilus Swell and wow - what an amazing adventure on the Swell up in Alaska. An excerpt follows - click on the link to read the full post and then contact Cooldives to book your berth on the Nautilus Swell in Alaska and British Columbia. It had it all. Fields of tunicates, anemones of every size and colour scheme scattered EVERYWHERE, bright orange social acsidians; a plethora of soft corals. It reminded me of Browning Wall but better, I feel, because of the large amount of cracks and gullies to explore. At 70 feet the wall of the island flattens out into a gently sloping boulder field and continues down to 130 feet and beyond. Holes and hideaways all over the place. We searched up and down, high and low. The large schools of black rockfish watch on curiously as we stared at massive lingcod perched on the rocks and wolf eels peering out at us from various holes. We barely covered a third of the site I would estimate. There was so much to see. Every once in a while I took time to look up at the wall and encouraged the other divers to as well. With visibility exceeding 50 feet it was a stunning panorama: Overhangs and crevices towered above us, carpeted in colour. Every colour. Whites and pinks were the most abundant but orange, purples, yellows and greens were clearly visible too. All of this framed by translucent kelp reflecting the sun, which only served to enhance all the beauty. So in a word: Splendid.

May 8, Reviews from the Nautilus Swell Liveaboard dive boat

Sun, 08 May 2011 19:02:23 GMT

The first comment we heard about a British Columbia/Alaska liveaboard scuba diving vacation on the Nautilus Swell was 'Friggin Awesome!!" Now that some of the initial excitement of diving beyond your dreams in British Columbia has worn off, read this review from the Nautilus Swell. You will then want to book your liveaboard dive vacation on the Nautilus Swell or the Nautilus Explorer today. Contact Cooldives.com for more information about scuba diving vacations in British Columbia, Canada.

May 8, Nautilus Swell Reviews - Read About Our Best Diving Liveaboard

Sun, 08 May 2011 18:51:44 GMT

Nautilus Swell Reviews - Reviews About Alaska and British Columbia's Best Diving Liveaboard

Apr 26, Colorful Marine Life for Divers in British Columbia

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 05:33:04 GMT

Here is another great article promoting the virtues of diving in British Columbia. Whether you want to see Orcas, wolf eels, giant Pacific octopus, or incredible underwater seascapes, and whether you want to experience shore dives, boat dives, wreck dives, drift dives or critter searching dives, book your dive holiday in British Columbia this summer.

Apr 23, Long Weekend Diving in Vancouver or Nanaimo, British Columbia

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 02:54:19 GMT

Jan and Kevin, the owners of Sea Dragon Dive Charters in Vancouver and Nanaimo may not look like your average Easter Bunny, but they do promise great diving this weekend. Theres still room on Saturday and Sunday, April 23-24 Weekend for both dive locations, Vancouver and Nanaimo. Contact CoolDives.com ASAP to book your spot before they melt away!

Apr 21, Nautilus Swell - first trip log from the Captain

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 04:04:10 GMT

How's this for the beginning of a British Columbia liveaboard dive trip on the Nautilus Swell!? "With an evening departure last night from Port Hardy we were underway for Browning Pass at 1940 hours. Just as we cleared Hardie Bay we were escorted up Goletas Channel by about 8 12 Orcas that crossed in front and behind us. A nice treat for our guests just as they were enjoying dinner on the way out. We arrived at dusk and got safely anchored with a little time to spare as the big full moon rose over Balaklava Island on the SE side of Browning Pass. Diving today started with a first dive at Hussar Pt, vis was great 60-80 feet with some great pictures with a friendly octopus. Vis is staying very good with the least being the 40-50 we had during a dive at Eaglesnest near Browning Islets. Everyone is geared up for an exciting day tomorrow with Browning Wall on the board for first dive tomorrow." Captain Al Book your British Columbia and Alaska liveaboard dive vacation of a lifetime through CoolDives.com today and you could be talking about your amazing diving right now!?

Apr 20, Annapolis Sinking - Volunteers Needed For Final Steps

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 14:48:38 GMT

Full speed ahead with the plans to sink the HMCS Annapolis, but to answer the question of when she will be sunk we post clips from the ARSBC. I can tell you with some experience that now is truly the best time to volunteer. To begin, we have just completed our forth successful metals extraction operation and have substantially removed the bulk of recyclables. With the decks now cleared we are at the stage where noticeable changes are happening. For example internal walls are being cut out thereby opening up the future dive routes, the engine room is looking more empty and spacious for underwater exploration. Doors and hatches are being cut out and more machinery is being removed. Its also a good time to come back because of the warmer and sunnier days ahead. The next question we are asked continually is when will Annapolis sink? In order to provide that answer we have to first get through the next critical stage and that is to get the ship ready for inspection. This is where we need you to come out and help. We are targeting for the end of May for the first environmental inspection followed by a final inspection before leading to a report on the condition of the ship. Once the environmental report is ready for submission to Federal authorities, it will take a few months for processing. The tasks that remain to be completed are: Removing rubber gaskets from ventilation works, basically wrench and socket work Removing loose and cut metals to staging areas Remove and scrape clean loose paint chips General debris collection sweeping Engine room works removing piping, electric motors We are relying on the community volunteers to help us sink the ship this year but we MUST get past the environmental inspection stage first with your support. Everyone is needed. Each Saturday and Sunday for the next 6 weeks we need 4-5 volunteers to meet our targets. We also will be going out on Thursdays and possible some Mondays for those on shift work and have time to come out. Also we have our first to dive the ship contest so keep coming back to win. Volunteer today - be a part of dive history.

Apr 13, Tofino has Canada's best beach - and great scuba diving too!

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:24:00 GMT

Tofino has the best beach in Canada according to the popular travel web site 'TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards'. Six of the top 10 beaches in Canada are in British Columbia. And so is some of the world's best cool water scuba diving. According to the TripAdvisor Tofino information pages, "The area's rugged, log-strewn Pacific beaches are famed for their impressive waves, and surfing is popular." While checking out the surf, try a discover scuba diving course, a snorkelling trip, or a great underwater adventure if you are already a certified scuba diver. Check out www.cooldives.com for more information about scuba diving vacations in Tofino, British Columbia.

Apr 8, How to Identify and Label Your Scuba Diving Sports Gear

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 05:07:08 GMT

Many divers ask how to label their scuba diving gear to make it identifiable under the water as well as on the surface. With these custom embroidered: - air tank labels - bcd labels - mask strap labels - luggage tags, and - wetsuit zipper pulls you can easily and safely identify your dive gear, your dive group and your luggage. Whether you customize them with your name, nickname, logo or gear set number, these custom scuba and sporting good labels are great for yourself or for gifts. Made from the highest quality polypropylene webbing material, the bcd tags, tank tags, mask strap covers and zipper pulls can be embroidered in many colors. You can easily identify your own wetsuit, and dive retailers or surf shops can embroider their name, website or identification number to help keep track of their rental wetsuits. Order a bcd label at the same time as your custom air tank label and save 20 percent. See Cooldives.com today for more details about these custom scuba labels.

Apr 7, Vancouver Cruise Ships and Scuba Diving Safaris Near Vancouver

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 04:19:23 GMT

Are you planning on taking a cruise ship from Vancouver, British Columbia or stopping enroute to Alaska? Are you a licensed scuba diver who wishes to experience some of the best cool water diving in the world while here for a short visit? Then how about booking a personal scuba diving safari with CoolDives and Vancouver Scuba Diving School? Each of our escorted Vancouver dive packages can be customized to include: - pick up and drop off services for yourself and your scuba gear - discounted rental or scuba gear purchases - transportation to and from dive sites, - and a customized scuba diving dvd of your diving in British Columbia Enjoy cruising to Alaska this summer and experience some Vancouver scuba diving. Contact www.cooldives today to book your scuba safari in Vancouver.

Apr 1, Browning Wall - one of the best wall dives in the world

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 23:46:38 GMT

Browning Wall, up near Port Hardy, British Columbia, is considered one of the top wall dives in the world. Nowhere else will you see marine life on top of marine life, and colors on top of colors like you will here. Experience the best cool water diving in British Columbia this season, with either a stay at one of our popular dive lodges or on one of our liveaboard dive boats. And no this isn't an April Fool's joke - the diving is really that amazing! Contact Cooldives today to experience the best of the best when it comes to scuba diving vacations in British Columbia this year.

Mar 30, Nanaimo Wreck Dives and Dive Charter Operator

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:58:46 GMT

With the 2011 addition of Sea Dragon Charters as a popular Nanaimo dive charter operator, divers are eager to sign up for some of Nanaimo's most popular boat dives. Nanaimo diving may be known as the wreck diving capital of the Pacific Northwest, but the wall dives, drift dives, and rocky reef areas are also amazing dive sites for all levels of divers. Spots on the Sea Dragon in Nanaimo fill up fast, so contact Cooldives.com now to book your scuba diving in Nanaimo, British Columbia, the hub city on Vancouver Island.

Mar 29, What's New for Diving in British Columbia

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:28:49 GMT

With the popularity of our blog where we post our special dive offers and news all about scuba diving and dive vacations in British Columbia, we haven't kept up with our newsletters. However, with some recent exciting news about the Nautilus Swell and the Annapolis sinking, we recently released Issue 3 which can be found at the link below. Find out why British Columbia is considered one of the best cool water scuba diving and outdoor recreation destinations in the world. Visit Cooldives.com and sign up for our blog for the latest and greatest British Columbia diving information.

Mar 28, Volunteer Day on the Annapolis - Trip Report

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 04:56:53 GMT

On March 26, 2011, just days after hearing the Province of British Columbia had officially accepted the former HMCS Annapolis as a gift to be sunk as an artificial reef and marine enhancement program in Halkett Bay, I jumped at the opportunity to help the ARSBC and to be a small part of Vancouver diving history. I feel humbled how little my one day of volunteering is compared to the amazing passion, dedication, and effort put in by the ARSBC team, the many other volunteers, Wes and his crew, and Kevin and Jan from Sea Dragon who volunteer their time and boat to get everybody out there. The idea of sinking a ship sounds great - but until you go and see the magnitude of the project, the work that has gone into it, and the work that has yet to happen, you don't realize what a huge project this really is. My hat goes off to those who have worked so hard to get to this point, I lift my pint as a cheers and congratulations to getting the letter from the government for the sinking, and I appeal to any divers (and their buddies) to get out there and help these guys! Be a part of BC dive history. It is going to be a great addition to diving in Vancouver and to diving in British Columbia. Thank you to all involved!!!

Mar 24, Annapolis Sinking Update - ARSBC Press Release

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 01:37:12 GMT

Annapolis Sinking Update - Press Release from the ARSBC It is with great delight and excitement that I bring to you this latest Annapolis sinking update on the Annapolis Project. After 3 years of struggle the ARSBC has been officially advised that the former HMCS Annapolis has been accepted as a gift to the province parks branch by the Honorable Murray Coell, Provincial Minister of Environment. With this confirmation, the Annapolis now has a new mission to become a long term stable marine habitat in Halkett Bay Provincial Marine Park, Gambier Island and will provide the Bay with an opportunity for habitat restoration and needed bio-diversity. We know that you join in celebrating the news and while no date for sinking can be made at this time, we will be providing up-dates on our permitting progress leading to an official date to announce the sinking. The ARSBC wishes to express its sincere thanks to all those who volunteered their time to help make this project a success and we are deeply appreciative of everyones efforts.

Mar 23, Annapolis Sinking Update More Volunteers Needed

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:16:28 GMT

4th Extraction Weekend and BBQ on Board March 26 & 27th They especially need Volunteers Saturday Volunteers Needed for a Weekend of Recycling and Preparing our ship for Environmental Inspection!!!! The ARSBC needs a large group of volunteers to help with on board preparations to remove large amounts of salvage harvested from the vessel. Many of you who are veterans of the project have enjoyed this process as we empty rooms, clear corridors, load metals and motors into bins, and enjoy a hot BBQ lunch on us for helping. Wes Roots/WR Marine has a Barge and Crane ready to go to remove tons of metals from the ship in this last BIG EXTRACTION Weekend. We only have two days to do this so we are looking for 25 persons per day. Meet up groups are most welcome as are dive clubs and other organizations. Email volunteer@artificialreef.bc.ca if you are interested or click the link if you want more information.

Mar 19, Divemaster Wanted - Campbell River and Quadra Island Area

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 22:08:06 GMT

A certified divemaster is required to lead dive groups in the Campbell River and Quadra Island areas for this exciting and fast growing dive charter company. Part-time to begin leading to full-time as needed. Candidates must live in the area and be familiar with the dive sites, currents, and marine life in the area. Contact Cooldives.com for more information

Mar 17, Dive the Nakwakto Rapids in British Columbia

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 01:02:14 GMT

Single Spots Available. We have a limited number of spots available to dive the amazing and world-famous Nakwakto Rapids this spring and summer. The first trip boards in Port Hardy 2:00 pm on May 4/11, and you dive May 5-8. All-inclusive cost is $960.00 + HST per person. The second trip boards in Port Hardy at 4:00 pm August 18/11. Dive August 19-25. You will also also dive The Desserters Group and Browning Pass. Cost $1,675.00 + HST per person. There are just a few spots left so contact cooldives.com today to book your amazing Nakwakto Rapids dive trip.

Mar 15, BC Boater Exam

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:27:41 GMT

Along with amazing diving in British Columbia, we also have amazing boating. With our miles of rugged coastline, plentiful lakes, hundreds of islands, and amazing marine life and wildlife, BC is a great place to explore above the surface as well. But as of September 15, 2009, all boaters operating in British Columbia waters are required to have the Pleasure Craft Operator Card for driving any watercraft including any size or type of motor. Obtaining your Operator Card is easy, and there are several ways to obtain it, including on-line courses, Challenge exam, and classroom courses. bc boating exam

Mar 14, Vancouver British Columbia Dive Trip - Space Available

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:27 GMT

Aqua-Nuts Diving from Alberta is organizing a pretty open-ended dive trip for those who may want to join in with a group. They will be leaving Central Alberta on August 18, 2011. The first part of the trip they will be stopping in the Shuswap. They will be finishing off some open water certs, a refresher class for some. Finishing a Rescue Class and some dry suit training for others. Also a trip to Pyramid Lake to check out the Largest fresh water coral head. Then on to Vancouver! They will dive around Vancouver for a day or two, then off to Vancouver Island for some shore dives off Ogden Point, then on to a boat dive at Race Rocks. Most of them will be camping, and there is extra room for a few more in the tent. If enough people are interested a stay at Andy Lambs B & B and some dives with Peter Luckham to dive the 737. This could be arranged if they hear soon enough and enough people are interested. 8 to be exact. The best part of this trip is that people can join them whenever you want for how ever long you want or what ever your budget is! Click the link for more details.

Mar 12, The British Columbia and Grand Cayman Mermaid Connection

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 04:28:07 GMT

What does the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia and the number 1 shore dive site on Grand Cayman Island have in common? Scuba divers on vacation from around the world come to dive the Emerald Princess and Amphritite, the cast bronze Mermaid statues created by British Columbia wildlife artist and sculptor, Simon Morris. Simon is instrumental in helping to grow scuba diving vacations in these dive destinations, and CoolDives is pleased to offer the Limited Edition bronze sculptures created by Simon Morris on our diving in British Columbia website. Stunning Orca whales, Humpback whale calfs, Giant Pacific Octopus sculptures, mermaid replicas, technical diver statues and custom bronze statues and commissioned sculptures, all masterfully created by sculptor Simon Morris. Sunshine coast dive and accommodation packages are available from CoolDives to dive and see our mermaid, and his beautiful bronze sculptures are available to add to your art collection. Cool Water - Amazing Dives - diving in British Columbia, Canada

Mar 10, Humpback Bronze Sculpture - Created by Simon Morris

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 21:29:33 GMT

Humpback bronze sculpture - British Columbia humpback bronze sculpture by Simon Morris

Mar 8, April 23, 2011 Vancouver Island Liveaboard on the Nautilus Swell

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:18:38 GMT

There are just a few spots left on the April 23, 2011 Vancouver Island and British Columbia liveaboard dive trip on the Nautilus Swell. This 100 year old, newly refit and refurbished dive boat will soon be taking divers from around the world on a scuba diving vacation in British Columbia and Alaska of a lifetime. The Nautilus Explorer used to sell out each trip and the Nautilus Swell is sure to do the same. Visit CoolDives.com today to book a spot on a British Columbia or Alaska liveaboard dive vacation.

Mar 6, Save 50 - 4th Annual Dive and Travel Expo

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 22:44:20 GMT

Divers in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest can save 50 off the entry charge at this year's Dive & Travel Expo which offers great fun and education! Print out our special dive offer coupon and bring it with you to the show. The 4th annual Dive and Travel Expo, held in Tacoma on April 9-10 will be an amazing weekend of scuba that will host 300 plus exciting exhibit booths showcasing some of the worlds leading dive industry professionals and sponsor a Shoot to Win photo contest as well as captivate with the Saturday Night Film Festival. The Dive and Travel Expo will have over $100,000 in cash and prizes this year. Come out and join us on April 9-10 at the Tacoma Convention Centerwell see you there!

Mar 6, Diving Port Hardy, British Columbia - The Amazing Emerald Sea

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 03:19:54 GMT

Kal Kothrade,an artist and diver from the states, recently had an amazing scuba diving vacation in British Columbia and submitted the trip report in the link below. And we quote "With site names like "Eagle Rock", "Seven Tree Island", and "Rock of Life", one would expect the dives to be unique and memorable. Actually they are all that and more. More macro life, more fish and more 'need to see' creatures like Wolf Eels and Giant Pacific Octopus. These are the most spectacular dives I have ever done." Another satisfied customer! Visit CoolDives.com today to book your spot at the Browning Pass Hideaway today - before it's too late!

Mar 4, Scuba Diving Packages at the Luxurious Sunshine Coast Resort, British Columbia

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 04:19:31 GMT

CoolDives can help organize a British Columbia Sunshine Coast Dive Package for divers/visitors to the luxurious Sunshine Coast Resort and Marina. Our affiliated Sunshine Coast PADI certified divemaster/dive instructor can not only help Sunshine Coast Resort guests obtain their Open Water Diver Certification, Advanced Diver Certification, Enriched Air Certification, or Drysuit Certification, he can also lead divers on an organized scuba safari around some of the area's best dive sites. He can arrange your necessary rental gear, and will lead your group of between 2-4 divers on two escorted Sunshine Coast dives. Visit Cooldives.com for more details and to book your Sunshine Coast Scuba Diving Package.

Mar 4, Diving in Powell River, BC - The Wreck of the Malahat

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 02:47:38 GMT

A nice addition to our list of British Columbia's favorite dive sites, the Wreck of the Malahat takes you to explore a famous rum runner schooner wreck. Located right by the Powell River breakwater, this easy shore dive has loads of marine life and a few remains from the old schooner. If you are looking for a divemaster to lead you on a Sunshine Coast scuba safari, visit CoolDives.com and find out more about best scuba diving vacations in British Columbia, Canada

Mar 3, Last Few Weeks for Luxury Victoria Diving Special Offer

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 05:32:50 GMT

These are the last 3 weeks of amazing winter diving and winter diving prices at the Luxury PADI accredited Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa near Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. 2 night dive, accommodation and breakfast packages in this luxury 5 Star Spa resort are priced at over 30 percent off their summer rates. Other Luxurious packages are available through CoolDives as well - ask for details. Contact Cooldives today to book your winter, spring or summer scuba diving packages in Victoria, British Columbia.

Feb 27, 2011 Diving in British Columbia, Canada

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 05:06:48 GMT

It may still be a little cool outside but the water is clear and the dive operators in British Columbia are gearing up for a very busy season. Bookings at most of our best dive live-aboards, dive charters, dive resorts and lodges and diver-friendly accommodations are well ahead of previous years, and many of the prime week end spots are full already. In order to ensure you get to enjoy the amazing British Columbia dive sites this year, visit cooldives.com now and book your dives..... Looking to upgrade your dive skills with an Advanced Diver certification or drysuit certification? Book it now and be ready to dive this summer.