Asylum Point is located in Midland, Ontario, Canada, on the southeastern shores of Georgian Bay. It holds historical significance as the site of Canada’s first youth prison, the Ontario Reformatory, which operated from 1887 to 1979. Today, it is a popular dive site with an intriguing mix of natural and historical features.
**Description:**
Asylum Point dive site is a unique and historically significant location for divers interested in exploring underwater relics from the past. The site offers a blend of submerged ruins from the old youth prison and beautiful underwater landscapes. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history while showcasing the rich aquatic life of Georgian Bay.
**Highlights:**
1. **Historical Wrecks:** Divers can explore the submerged remains of the old Ontario Reformatory, which served as Canada’s first youth prison. The underwater structures, such as old docks and buildings, now act as artificial reefs, attracting marine life and providing an eerie, historical atmosphere.
2. **Marine Life:** Asylum Point is home to a diverse range of marine life. Divers can encounter various fish species, including bass, pike, perch, and sunfish. Additionally, the underwater structures serve as a habitat for crayfish, snails, and other invertebrates, adding to the site’s ecological diversity.
3. **Photography Opportunities:** Underwater photographers will find plenty of fascinating subjects at Asylum Point. The combination of historical artifacts and vibrant marine life creates an excellent backdrop for capturing captivating images.
4. **Educational Dive:** The dive site offers an opportunity for divers to learn about the history of the Ontario Reformatory and its role in Canada’s correctional system. It is an educational experience, combining history with the excitement of underwater exploration.
5. **Suitable for All Divers:** The shallow depths and relatively calm conditions at Asylum Point make it accessible to divers of all experience levels. Beginners can enjoy exploring the historical structures in the shallower areas, while advanced divers can venture further out for a more challenging experience.
**Cautions:**
1. **Cold Water:** As with many dive sites in the Great Lakes region, the waters of Georgian Bay can be cold, particularly outside of the summer months. Adequate thermal protection is necessary for comfort and safety during the dive.
2. **Underwater Hazards:** While exploring the submerged ruins, divers should be mindful of sharp edges and potential hazards. Careful buoyancy control and finning techniques are essential to navigate around the structures safely.
3. **Respect for Historical Artifacts:** Divers should exercise care and caution when exploring the historical artifacts to avoid any damage or disturbance to the site.
**Accessibility:**
Asylum Point is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for shore diving. Divers can park nearby and walk to the entry point along the beach. The ease of access makes it a favorable site for divers looking for historical and natural exploration.
**Conclusion:**
Asylum Point in Midland, Ontario, is a captivating dive site that combines history, marine life, and underwater exploration. The submerged ruins of the Ontario Reformatory offer a unique and educational diving experience, allowing divers to connect with Canada’s past while enjoying the beauty of Georgian Bay’s underwater world. With its accessibility and diverse underwater features, Asylum Point is a site that can be appreciated by divers of all levels of experience and interests.
