Plunging into the Deep of Fathom Five National Marine Park

Below the surface of the crystal clear waters of Lake Huron, in an area of Ontario known to many as "the Bruce", lies the Fathom Five National Marine Park. Canada's first National Marine Conservation Area seeks to protect and display 20 islands, 22 shipwrecks and several historic lighthouses, and conserve one of the most pristine freshwater ecosystems in the Great Lakes. 

Let's dip below, and go on an underwater journey of one of my favourite places on Earth, Fathom Five National Marine Park. 

The 130-square-kilometre, triangular-shaped park protects the continuation of the Niagara Escarpment as it drops underwater at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, or “the Bruce”. Think caves, cliffs and overhangs galore to explore. 

Most of the wrecks located in the park are schooners, barges and steamers, and are amongst the oldest and best-preserved wrecks in Canada, dating back to the mid-1800s – before area lighthouses were erected. The presence of these wrecks offers some of the best freshwater scuba diving opportunities in the world. The deep clear water and the numerous shipwrecks attract over 8,000 divers from around the world each year, giving it the name of “Scuba Diving Capital of Canada”. Everyone, from the novice snorkeler to the most advanced diving enthusiast, can find lots to explore and enjoy within the park.

One of the things that I love about scuba diving is being able to explore new places. The unique aquatic ecosystem and topography of Fathom Five makes exploring the park one of my favourite diving adventures. Having good diving buddies, like your sister and dad, also make the experience that much more enjoyable. 

Please note, all divers planning to dive in Fathom Five, need to first obtain their dive tag by registering at the Park Visitor Centre. For more information on diver registration, click here. It is considered cold water diving, so appropriate gear, such as a hood and gloves, must be worn to stay comfortable.

Do you scuba dive? Where is your favourite place to dive?