エクスプローラー(スペリオル湖
五大湖の中で最大のスペリオル湖は、数多くの難破船で知られるユニークな淡水ダイビングをダイバーに提供する。五大湖の墓場」として知られるスペリオル湖は、沈没船の印象的なコレクションを誇り、水中の歴史に興味がある人にとっては天国だ。冷たく澄んだ海水は視界がよく、100年以上前の沈没船がよく見えることもあり、レクリエーション・ダイバーもテクニカル・ダイバーも魅了される。
目立つ場所のひとつはアルジャー海中保護区で、バミューダ号、キオワ号、スミス・ムーア号などの有名な沈船がある。これらの沈没船は、ダイバーを水中通路や貨物倉の探検に誘い、海洋の歴史を垣間見る興味をそそる。さらに北上すると、アイルロイヤル国立公園があり、10隻の沈船がそれぞれ個性的なダイビングを楽しませてくれる。
スペリオル湖でのダイビングは、沈船だけでなく、コールドウォーターダイビング(冷水ダイビング)の冒険を楽しむことであり、そのユニークな挑戦と報酬を得ることである。湖の水温は低く、4℃前後で推移することが多いため、沈船は驚くほど保存され、過去を知る窓となり、忘れられないダイビング体験となる。スペリオル湖は、寒さをものともしない人々にとって、エクスプローラー(探検)と発見に満ちたダイビングの旅を約束してくれる。
Top Lake Superior Dive Sites
Isle Royale National Park
Known for its rich ecosystems, divers can encounter native fish species and vibrant aquatic plants. This site is suitable for advanced scuba divers due to cold waters and deep wrecks like the SS America. It is a protected area with unique underwater formations.
Apostle Islands
This site offers a mix of easy and advanced diving opportunities. Divers can see freshwater fish and explore stunning sea caves. Both scuba and freediving are popular here. The islands are part of a national lakeshore, preserving its natural beauty.
Madeira Shipwreck
Located near Split Rock Lighthouse, this site is suitable for advanced divers. The wreck of the Madeira, rich with history, attracts scuba divers. Cold, clear waters provide good visibility to observe the wreck and local fish species.
Marquette Underwater Preserve
Featuring several shipwrecks, this site is ideal for technical diving. Experienced divers can explore deep wrecks and the diverse marine life that inhabits them. The preserve plays a crucial role in protecting the underwater heritage of Lake Superior.
Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve
Home to numerous wrecks, this site is best for advanced and technical scuba divers. The preserve ensures the protection of historical shipwrecks and offers a chance to see cold-water species and aquatic flora.
Devil's Island
Known for its unique underwater rock formations, Devil's Island provides an easy diving experience suitable for both scuba and freediving. The area teems with freshwater fish and vibrant algae. It is part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, emphasizing ecological preservation.
The Hesper Wreck
The Hesper Wreck, accessible to advanced scuba divers, lies amidst kelp forests and a diverse array of fish species. This technical dive site offers a glimpse into the past with the well-preserved structure of the shipwreck. Caution is advised due to the depth and occasional strong currents.
Silver Bay
Silver Bay is ideal for both scuba and freediving, featuring clear waters and a range of freshwater species. The site is characterized by its rocky underwater topography, providing moderate adventure levels. Its accessibility and diverse marine life make it a popular choice for divers.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Located in a protected area, Gooseberry Falls State Park offers an easy diving experience amidst lush aquatic vegetation and a variety of fish. Scuba divers can explore the serene underwater environment, making it a perfect spot for beginners seeking a peaceful dive.