Consider New England Scuba Diving For An Experience With A Difference

By Ladonna Chambers


Many people think that the only great destinations for diving are tropical coral reefs like those of the Caribbean or the Pacific. These places are indeed wonderful for underwater explorers because they offer such a variety of colorful ocean creatures. However, cold-water diving is a wonderful experience too. New England scuba clubs know that their ocean and lakes offer unforgettable experiences.

New England isn't only a destination to visit for its fall foliage or maple syrup. Its seashore, may islands and abundance of inland lakes offer plenty of dive sites for the adventurous. Even Vermont, which is landlocked, is a popular destination for scuba divers in the know.

The varied geography in the region means that you're spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing what type of diving you want to do. Whether you're into wreck diving, cave diving, diving at high altitudes, night diving, diving for oysters or lobster or even ice diving, you'll find it here. The only real limit is how skilled you are.

All the New England states except Vermont offer opportunities for saltwater diving. Here you'll get the chance to spot seals, whales, sharks and huge shoals of fish. About 150 wrecks along the coastline means that this is a wreck diver's paradise too. Some of the more interesting wrecks to explore are those of the submarine U-853 off the Rhode Island coast and the Coimbra off the coast of Connecticut. Both these wrecks date from the Second World War.

The inland parts has plenty of dive sites too. With about 2,500 lakes and smaller ponds and several quarries, you can take your pick of freshwater dive sites. One spot that you shouldn't miss out on is Lake Champlain in Vermont. Here, centuries of boat traffic across the lake has meant that there are age-old wrecks to explore.

Another option is to go aquarium diving. The New England Aquarium has a large and very active dive club. If this sounds too tame for you and you want to get out there during winter, you may want to try ice diving. This is challenging but there is a very special thrill to watching your air bubbles float up to the thick frozen ceiling above you.

The type of diving will dictate the equipment you will need. A wetsuit is essential, though, no matter where in the area you dive. Even in summer the water can be very chilly. In winter a drysuit over thermal undergarments is the best option. A dive light is indispensable in the murky water and you'll also need your usual safety equipment.

If you're interested in New England scuba diving, first do some online research. There is such a variety of options that you may want to get some advice from fellow divers on what is best for your level of skill. The area has many dive clubs and shops that can help you.




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