WHAT LIES BENEATH
The island is surrounded by an impressively wide barrier reef that is virtually unexplored. An estimated 400 ships have been lost in its coastal waters since early explorers and mariners first visited the Gulf. Anticosti was in fact discovered by French explorer Jacques Cartier in 1534.
Anticosti’s waters offer an enthralling mix of creatures, big and small, tiny critters to hefty seals. Macro enthusiasts will be surprised by the variety and plenty of various species of shrimps, crabs, nudibranchs and so much more. The island’s underwater landscape is surprisingly diverse and changes depending on whether diving on the northern or southern shores, with some relics of shipwrecks still visible.
Local waters are visited by 13 species of whales, 3 species of seals and an impressive number of species of rare sea birds like puffins, small penguins and long-tailed ducks (kakawis).
CONDITIONS
We cannot tell a lie. Diving conditions in Anticosti can be somewhat challenging at times. Water temperature is usually in the 3°-8°C (38°-46°F) range in the North. However temperatures can reach 16°C (60°F) in the South. Some sites can be affected by currents. Visibility can be impressive and is regularly in the 15-meter range (50').
The island is very remote. Emergency medical care requires evacuation off the island. For your safety, we request all divers to be Advanced Open Water certified with a minimum of 30 logged dives. Cold water and drysuit diving experience is recommended. We also avoid aggressive dive profiles. Our dive staff is highly trained and experienced in risk management. All dive sites are chosen to ensure safe and pleasant diving conditions.
Given its remoteness, weather and sea conditions can be capricious in Anticosti. If conditions are not favorable, we will attempt to reach sheltered sites to allow for a maximum number of dives during your stay. If we get blow-out or we deem that sea conditions are too hazardous, we will offer land visits or activities that are just as amazing as our diving. There will be no extra charge for these visits and we will do our best to get you back in the water as soon as possible.
