Dive Site Overview

•Location: Dolime Quarry, Kitchener, Ontario

•Dive Type: Shore Dive

•Depth Range:

•Minimum: 20 feet (6 meters)

•Maximum: 40 feet (12 meters)

•Dive Duration:

•Average: 40-60 minutes (depending on air consumption and depth)

Key Feature

The Underwater Chess Board

Dolime Quarry’s underwater chess board is the centerpiece of this unique dive site. Located at a depth of approximately 30 feet (9 meters), the fully functional chess board provides a memorable and interactive underwater experience. Surrounded by other underwater features like submerged trees and platforms, the chess board is a highlight for divers seeking a distinctive adventure.

Access

•Parking: Available near the quarry entrance. Ensure you have permission to dive; access may require prior arrangements or fees.

•Entry Point: A short walk from the parking area leads to the water’s edge. The gradual descent allows for an easy entry and exit.

•Dive Path: Begin by following the quarry wall, which leads directly to the chess board. From there, explore additional submerged features scattered throughout the site.

Visibility

•Typical Range: 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters)

•Best Conditions: Early mornings or weekdays when fewer divers are present. Weather and recent activity may impact Visibility.

Additional Tips

Equipment Recommendations

1.Dive Light: Essential for illuminating the chess board and surrounding features, particularly on overcast days.

2.Exposure Protection:

•7mm Wetsuit or Drysuit is recommended, as the water temperature can be cold, especially at depth.

3.Buoyancy Control: Mastery is important to avoid disturbing the chess pieces or the silt on the quarry floor.

Safety

1.Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a partner to ensure safety, particularly in colder water.

2.Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Useful for increasing Visibility to other divers or surface traffic, especially in lower-Visibility conditions.

Dive Highlights

•Underwater Chess Board: A unique and playful feature at 30 feet (9 meters).

•Submerged Trees and Platforms: Adding variety to the dive and opportunities for underwater exploration.

•Clear Waters: Quarry diving typically offers better Visibility than open-water dives, providing an excellent setting for recreational divers.

Resources & Links

1.Google Maps: Locate Dolime Quarry in Kitchener, Ontario.

2.Local Dive Shops: Contact Kitchener-based shops for access permissions, conditions, and rental equipment.

3.Ontario Underwater Council: Ontario Underwater Council for guidelines and safety tips on quarry diving.

Conclusion

The Dolime Quarry dive site offers a distinctive experience with its underwater chess board and engaging landscape. Its combination of clear waters, manageable depths, and unique features makes it a standout destination for divers of all experience levels. Whether you’re there to play chess underwater or to explore the surrounding features, Dolime Quarry promises a memorable dive.

Tags

Shore Dive, Quarry Dive, Ontario Diving, Recreational Diving, Underwater Chess Board, Freshwater Dive, Unique Dive Sites, Kitchener Dive Spots.