Explore Quebec
Quebec offers a unique diving experience, blending rich history with diverse aquatic environments. Divers can explore the storied waters of the Saint Lawrence River, where centuries-old shipwrecks lie beneath the surface, remnants of the historic shipping route. These underwater relics, some dating back to the 1700s, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Freshwater lakes across the province offer varied landscapes, making each dive an adventure. These lakes, dotted throughout Quebec, present opportunities for shore dives that reveal breathtaking underwater cliffs and intriguing geological formations.
In Quebec's saltwater regions, divers can encounter vibrant marine life and striking underwater scenery at sites like les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Île Bonaventure’s protected marine belt. The waters here are home to an array of species, from colorful fish to curious crustaceans, adding an element of surprise to each dive. Due to water temperatures that fluctuate between 10°C–20°C/50°F–68°F, divers should be prepared with thick wetsuits or dry suits. With international airports in Quebec City and Montreal, the province is easily accessible, making it a convenient and enticing destination for divers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.
Dive Activity
Diving in Quebec
Quebec offers diverse diving experiences, from thrilling wreck dives to serene shore entries. One of the top wreck sites is the Empress of Ireland in the St. Lawrence River, a historic ocean liner attracting divers eager to explore its haunting remains. For shore dives, Les Escoumins is popular, providing easy access and vibrant marine life, including playful seals and colorful anemones.
Unique experiences include night dives in the Saguenay Fjord, where divers can witness extraordinary bioluminescent displays. The balance between shore and liveaboard diving ensures flexibility for all preferences, with shore sites being more accessible, while liveaboards offer extended trips to remote locations. This blend makes Quebec a captivating destination for divers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Quebec
Quebec's marine life is influenced by the cold waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, offering a unique diving experience. Common species include various types of cod, mackerel, and herring, which thrive in these nutrient-rich waters. Divers can expect to encounter schools of these fish throughout most of the year, particularly in areas with strong tidal currents. Seasonal highlights for divers include sightings of the Greenland shark, which can be spotted in deeper waters during the colder months. Turtles and rays are less commonly seen due to the colder climate, but some sightings of leatherback turtles occur in warmer months. For those diving in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, the chance to see beluga whales is a significant draw, especially from June to September when these majestic creatures are more prevalent.
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
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Perch
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Total number of species: 35
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Trout
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Pike
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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
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Common Rudd
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The best Months to dive in Quebec
Diving in Quebec offers unique experiences throughout the year, though conditions vary significantly with the seasons. In summer, water temperatures in the St. Lawrence River can reach 15°C/59°F to 20°C/68°F, providing comfortable conditions for divers. Visibility is generally good, ranging from 5 to 15 meters (16 to 49 feet), though it can be affected by factors like plankton blooms and river currents. In winter, water temperatures drop significantly to about 0°C (32°F), requiring dry suits for diving.
Ice diving becomes a popular activity, with visibility often improving under the ice due to reduced sediment. However, the harsh weather and ice conditions can make this period less favorable for casual diving. Fall and spring offer moderate conditions, but divers should be cautious of strong winds and currents that may impact visibility and safety. Overall, diving is possible year-round, but each season presents its own challenges and requires proper preparation.
