Howe Sound Scuba Charter from Horseshoe Bay — Certified Divers Only
Board the Topline at Horseshoe Bay and head into Howe Sound for cold-water dives on pinnacles, canyons, and sponge bioherms. This five-hour charter is for certified divers who want concentrated marine life and dramatic underwater topography with experienced local crew.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring proof of certification
Operators require an agency card or digital proof before you dive—upload or bring printed documentation to speed check-in.
Layer for post-dive warmth
Wind on the deck chills quickly; pack a warm jacket and a dry set of clothes to change into after your surface interval.
Plan surface intervals and flights
Don’t schedule air travel within 24 hours after diving; follow your certifying agency’s guidance to avoid decompression risk.
Secure gear on deck
Boat decks can be wet and slippery—use bungee straps and keep regulators and electronics stowed when not in use.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Whytecliff Park for easy shore snorkeling and intertidal life observation
- •Porteau Cove and Bowen Island shorelines for post-dive overlooks and short hikes
Wildlife
- •Pacific octopus
- •wolf eel
Conservation Note
Howe Sound has seen significant recovery efforts and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve region; divers are asked to avoid touching life and use reef-safe sun protection.
Howe Sound is a glacial fjord and traditional territory of the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations; it later supported logging and mining before shifting toward recreation and restoration.
What to Bring
Certified dive card/IDEssential
Required proof of certification for all divers.
3–7mm wetsuit or drysuit (season-dependent)Essential
Thermal protection for cold Pacific waters—thicker wetsuit or drysuit recommended in spring/fall.
Deck jacket and waterproof layersEssential
Keeps you warm and dry between dives on exposed deck conditions.
Boots and gloves
Protect against cold and provide grip on slippery boat decks; gloves help when handling lines and gear.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to dive on this charter?
Yes—this trip is for certified scuba divers only; operators will ask for agency certification (card or digital proof) before boarding.
Is there a ride-along option for non-divers?
Yes, a non-diver ride-along is offered when there are enough passengers; you can enjoy wildlife viewing and scenic cruising from the top deck.
Are tank fills included?
Tank fills may be included with some gear packages, but fills and nitrox are often an extra—confirm at booking or with the crew on arrival.
What medical restrictions apply?
You’ll complete a health questionnaire and certain conditions (cardiac, respiratory, recent surgeries) may preclude diving; consult your doctor and follow certifying agency rules.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
West Vancouver, British Columbia
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended—able to manage kit, ladder entries, and surface swims; some sites have current.
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