Bonnie Castle Dive Park Overview

Location: St. Lawrence River, near Alexandria Bay, New York

Features: Dive platforms, underwater attractions, including the Tahiti Tiger

Accessibility: Open to divers of all levels, with certain areas suited for advanced divers

Dive Park Description

Bonnie Castle Dive Park is a meticulously organized dive site designed for divers of varying experience levels. Located in the clear, cold waters of the St. Lawrence River, it provides an exceptional environment for underwater exploration and training. The park’s thoughtful layout includes stable dive platforms, submerged attractions, and ample opportunities for underwater photography.

Key Features

Three Dive Platforms

•Used for training, safety stops, and staging during dives.

•Positioned to provide divers with a stable and convenient resting or regrouping area underwater.

Underwater Attractions

•Tahiti Tiger: A notable attraction within the park. Though its exact origins and purpose remain unclear, it is likely a small recreational vessel or an intentionally submerged feature designed for divers. The name suggests a thematic or decorative element, adding intrigue to the diving experience.

•Additional objects and structures to explore, appealing to a range of divers.

Visibility and Marine Life

The Visibility in this part of the St. Lawrence River is generally high, making it ideal for underwater photography. The park also supports diverse aquatic life, offering a vibrant underwater setting.

Diving Experience

Bonnie Castle Dive Park is an excellent site for both skill development and recreational diving:

•For Novices: The platforms offer a controlled environment for basic skill-building and training under the guidance of certified instructors.

•For Experienced Divers: The variety of underwater features and good Visibility enhance the exploratory appeal.

Safety and Regulations

•Buddy System: Always dive with a buddy and adhere to safety protocols.

•Dive Flags: Use dive flags to alert boaters of your presence in the water.

•Training: Training should be supervised by certified instructors.

•Environmental Awareness: Divers are encouraged to respect the ecosystem, avoid disturbing marine life, and refrain from removing objects.

Significance

Bonnie Castle Dive Park contributes to the vibrant diving culture of the Thousand Islands region, a destination renowned for its pristine waters and numerous shipwrecks. The park offers a safe, engaging environment that balances recreational enjoyment with educational opportunities, supporting the development of the diving community.

Next Steps & Resources

•Local Dive Shops: Obtain maps, updates on diving conditions, and equipment rentals.

•Dive Clubs: Participating in dive clubs can enhance your experience and introduce you to organized group dives.

•Nearby Dive Sites: Explore other attractions in the Thousand Islands region to expand your diving adventures.

Bonnie Castle Dive Park is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of controlled diving environments and engaging underwater exploration.