In August and September of 2016 we put together some amazing trips to the wilder side of Vancouver Island. The West Coast of Vancouver Island is long known for its dramatic scenery and amazing wildlife encounters above water. A little bit less well known are the unique diving opportunities that exist along the rocky shoreline and far off shore. Scheduled dive charters on Vancouver Island tend to stick to “relatively” sheltered areas that are known for abundant dive opportunities. These trips we did were designed for divers looking for something a little more unique and challenging, with an exploration atmosphere.
First off was a 4 day adventure based out of Tahsis, BC. This trip featured unique River Canyon diving with Salmon, dramatic Inlet diving, and offshore diving in search of Blue Sharks. The sharks had left the area by late August unfortunately but we had fun encounters in the water with Black Footed Albatross. These open ocean wanderers were fascinated by our presence in the water 18 miles offshore.
Next up was our first time running trips out of Winter Harbour. Truly at the far end of nowhere, this area did not disappoint. Over two trips we had unbelievable encounters with giant Mola mola, aka Ocean Sunfish, awesome offshore seamount and pinnacle diving, and spectacular diving in Quatsino Narrows. This area of the coast has experienced an unusual event this year. There has been an explosion of Rockfish juveniles, the likes of which have not been seen for decades. No one has a ready explanation for this massive recruitment, but it is well received, by divers and wildlife alike. The offshore pinnacles especially were teeming with juveniles, at times filling the water column from the surface down to over one hundred feet.
The highlight for me was on a particularly unique weather day that brought light easterlies, we were able to go all the way out to the tip of Brooks Peninsular and circumnavigate Solander Island. With such perfect conditions we decided to dive on the southern tip of this remote island. Solander records the highest number of hurricane force wind days of any weather station in Canada, so it was treat to be able to spend some time here in perfect conditions. The diving was understandably rugged, with most of the life living in cracks and crevices in the broken volcanic rock. Even on this calm day the surge was incredible and made for exhilarating diving. We left this spot not knowing if we would have an opportunity to ever dive here again.
With the entire North Pacific Ocean pounding upon the shores of the West Coast it is sure not a diving experience for the faint of heart. But the rewards are worth it. We will be back next year and who knows what we will see. As the sign says on the drive into Winter Harbour- Be Prepared for the Unexpected!
