Explore Ontario

Ontario offers a unique diving experience with its diverse aquatic landscapes, making it a remarkable destination for divers. In the north, the chilly waters of Hudson Bay, near the Arctic Circle, invite adventurous divers to explore a world unlike any other. While the temperatures rarely exceed 10°C/50°F, the vibrant marine life, including rare species, makes it worth braving the cold. A warm dry suit is essential here, but those who venture in are rewarded with encounters few divers get to experience.

In contrast, Ontario's southern border features four of the Great Lakes: Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. These freshwater giants offer some of the world's best shipwreck diving. With spectacular visibility, particularly in winter and spring, divers can explore historical wrecks preserved in these cold, clear waters. The sheer number of wrecks promises endless exploration. Whether you prefer shore dives or boat trips, Ontario's dive sites cater to all styles, providing an unforgettable journey through Canada's rich underwater history.

Courses and Events

Scuba Skills Update

It is easy for dive skills to get rusty and to lose confidence when you have not dived for a while. With the SSI Scuba Skills Update, we will get you back in the water and diving with ease in no time. This scuba refresher course allows you to review and practice scuba skills you learned in your Open Water Diver program, under the guidance of an SSI Professional. This is a great course to take just before a dive holiday, so you spend less time worrying about your skills and more time admiring the marine life. If you are a non-certified Open Water Diver student, a Scuba Skills Update is ideal for practicing your dive skills before your open water training dives. With no fixed course duration, you can take your time and focus on the skills you need help with.

14 February +1 More
EUR 99.05
CAD 159.99

Open Water Diver

This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

14 February +1 More
EUR 526.22
CAD 849.99

Try Scuba

The SSI Try Scuba program is the best way to try scuba diving for the first time. You will be in confined water and well looked after by your instructor, so you can enjoy those first unforgettable breaths underwater and experience the magic of scuba diving. At the end of this short course, you will have earned your SSI Try Scuba recognition card and undoubtedly want to go diving again. Endless scuba diving adventures are waiting for you and this course is where it all begins. Start today!

14 February +1 More
EUR 99.05
CAD 159.99

Dive Activity

Diving in Ontario

Ontario offers a diverse array of dive sites that cater to both wreck enthusiasts and those seeking serene underwater experiences. Notable wreck dives include the "Sweepstakes", a well-preserved schooner in Tobermory’s Fathom Five National Marine Park. This site is accessible for beginners and provides an intriguing glimpse into maritime history. Another fascinating wreck is the "Niagara II", also located in Tobermory, which offers a more challenging dive with its deeper depth and diverse marine life. Popular shore dives, such as those found at the Thousand Islands, allow divers to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems just a short swim from the shore. These sites are perfect for those who prefer the flexibility of shore diving over liveaboard trips. Unique experiences include night dives, where divers can witness the nocturnal behaviors of freshwater species, offering a different perspective of Ontario’s aquatic life. The balance between easily accessible shore dives and the adventure of liveaboard options makes Ontario a versatile destination for divers of all skill levels.

Top Wildlife Sightings in Ontario

Ontario's freshwater bodies are rich with diverse wildlife, offering divers a glimpse into a vibrant underwater ecosystem. Common fish species include bass, pike, and walleye, with the occasional catfish or sturgeon making an appearance. These larger species are often found in deeper areas of lakes and rivers, where visibility can vary based on water conditions and sediment levels. Divers hoping to spot these unique fish should plan dives accordingly, considering factors such as water clarity and depth.

Seasonal spawning activities provide unique opportunities for divers to observe fish in their natural reproductive behaviors. For instance, in spring, many species move to shallower waters, making them more accessible for divers. However, the increased activity can stir up sediment, affecting visibility. Planning dives during periods of calm weather can help ensure optimal visibility and a successful dive experience. Understanding the seasonal patterns and behaviors of Ontario's freshwater wildlife enhances the diving experience, offering unforgettable underwater encounters.

Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 19

iStock-ANDY_BOWLIN

Bass
1.4k Sightings
J
1
F
0
M
0
A
1
M
22
J
149
J
332
A
343
S
341
O
132
N
48
D
3

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 3

iStock-jpa1999

Perch
526 Sightings
J
1
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
5
J
32
J
97
A
130
S
194
O
49
N
17
D
1

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 5

iStock-abadonian

Pike
451 Sightings
J
1
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
10
J
54
J
84
A
94
S
139
O
48
N
19
D
2

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 600

Shutterstock-dushkovladimir

Crayfish
333 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
7
M
21
J
44
J
89
A
55
S
73
O
19
N
23
D
2

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 30

Shutterstock-Rostislav Stefanek

Carp
324 Sightings
J
1
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
8
J
46
J
59
A
124
S
69
O
17
N
0
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 2000

AdobeStock-Alex

Loach Goby
221 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
4
J
11
J
45
A
63
S
76
O
13
N
9
D
0

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 5

Shutterstock-Rostislav Stefanek

Walleye
206 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
2
M
4
J
13
J
40
A
79
S
62
O
4
N
2
D
0
k

Blue Tilapia
80 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
4
J
4
J
17
A
9
S
35
O
10
N
1
D
0

The best Months to dive in Ontario

Ontario offers diverse diving conditions throughout the year. In the warmer months, water temperatures range from 18°C–23°C/64°F–73°F, providing pleasant diving conditions with visibility typically between 15-30 meters/49-98 feet. During winter, temperatures can drop to 0°C–4°C/32°F–39°F, which restricts diving to those equipped for cold water conditions, as ice diving becomes prevalent.

Visibility can be affected by seasonal plankton blooms, especially in spring and early summer. Wind and surface currents are significant factors, particularly in larger bodies of water like the Great Lakes, potentially limiting diving opportunities. While diving is possible all year, the most favorable conditions are generally from late spring to early fall when water temperatures are comfortable, and visibility is at its best.

Dive Centers

Sharkys Scuba Supply, Mike Morris

1226 Wellington St. W, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa, ON - CAN

Groundhog Divers Inc

91 HOLLINGER CRESCENT, N2K 2Y8 Kitchener, ON - CAN

Travel Sports Equipment

67 Wharncliffe Road North, N6H 2A5 London, ON - CAN

Dive Sites

Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Conestoga Wreck (★4.3)

The largely still intact Conestoga is a 252-ft wreck in Cardinal, Ontario and is an excellent dive for all level, and exceptional night dive site. Easy shore entry leads you to a 25 m-line to the wreck. It is a shallow dive (28 ft approx.) and drift-friendly. Great site to practice a camera.
Christine E. (#3568096)

Centeen Memorial Dive Park (★4.2)

A popular dive site for all levels of divers, you can see the underwater sculpture placed here with six standing human figures looking up, surrounded at an 18-foot radius by benches at each cardinal point. Two sturgeons point north at 35 feet out, a tribute to a species that was once plentiful in the river.
Peter F. (#2992150)

Wee Hawk (Wreck) (★4.0)

The Wee Hawk wreck lies in very shallow, generally calm water and can appear inviting at first glance. However, the structure is unstable and deceptive. Diving should be limited to exterior exploration only; wreck penetration is not recommended without proper training and experience.
Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Rothesay (★4.0)

Touted in Augusta as the “World’s Best Fresh Water Scuba Diving,“ this Rothesay dive and picnic site offer a great day-use area with easy access to amazing freshwater diving. The water clarity is excellent with no thermocline.
Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Robert Gaskin (Wreck) (★4.2)

The Robert Gaskin is a large, novice-friendly wreck south of Centene Park. Built in 1863, it sank in 1889 during a salvage attempt. A mooring line makes boat entries easy. Max depth ~70 ft, with swim-throughs and sheltered areas from current.
Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Lise Cottage (★3.9)

There is no thermocline in this area, allowing for very comfortable diving temperatures from May through October. Visibility is great and you can reach depths greater than 100 feet if you’re looking to do deeper dives. If not, this is also a great site for shallower diving close to shore.
Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Galop Island Canal (★4.3)

Entry is a giant stride by the bridge. Coordinate entry to avoid separation. Initial canal depth is 20–25 ft. Prepare to navigate a shallow section (~10 ft) where the Canal connects to the river; it has strong current and boat traffic - stay close to the bottom. Use caution and SMB if appropriate.
Sharkys Scuba Supply, K1Y 3A1 Ottawa

Lillie Parsons (Wreck) (★4.2)

This is a boat dive. Bring a light to see under the wreck. Prepare for strong currents (2-3 knots). Penetration is possible but not recommended for novice divers. The wreck lies between 40 and 50 feet with wreckage extending to 90 feet. Visibility is 8 to 12 feet. The ship lies upside down.
Thunder Country Diving, P7C 3R6 Thunder Bay

Oliver Lake (★4.6)

Oliver Lake is a gorgeous shore dive that debuts the interesting geology of our area and friendly freshwater species. The location is easily navigable and consists of clear waters with good visibility. There are two entrance points, the first at west Oliver, and the second at East Oliver.
Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Innerkip Quarry (★3.0)

This is a great spot for spring & early summer diving. There are lots of sunken artifacts to find like planes, boats, buses, cars, and a sunken mine shaft. Visibility dramatically reduces toward the fall and winter. You can pay the $5 day use fee or stay the whole weekend at the camp ground on site.
Mares

Dolime/Glenchristie Quarry (★4.2)

This is the old Dolime quarry or also now known as the Glenchristie quarry and is located just outside of Toronto, Canada. The quarry sits at around 30 - 40 ft deep and the deeper section towards the back reaches just to about 90 ft. There is limited parking and this is a popular training site, so get there early!
Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Kinghorn (Wreck) (★4.6)

This is a deep dive in a strong current. The dive should not be attempted from shore. Multiple dive boats are available for hire from the marina. The wreck is located approximatively 90 feet from shore.
Mares, Janez Kranjc

Prescott Dive Park (★4.4)

This site was set up by the City of Prescott. It has easy access and a nice set up for divers. The area is shallow with calm water. Bottom composition is silt.
Mares, Janez Kranjc

Morrisburg Beach Lock 23 (★4.2)

A great site to dive the historic Locks of the St. Lawrence River. This site is accessible from the Canadian side of the river. A nice dive for beginners as there is no current and the depth is shallow.
Mares

Lock 21 (★4.1)

Lock 21 is an exciting and unique dive where you get to go back in time and dive a 19th century submerged Victorian canal lock on the St. Lawrence River. This dive can have strong currents and is best done by experienced divers.