The JOHN WALTERS is a captivating dive site located in the picturesque waters of Tobermory, Ontario. With its relatively shallow depth of 15′ and novice-friendly conditions, this historic shipwreck offers an excellent opportunity for beginner divers to explore a piece of maritime heritage in a stunning underwater setting.
The JOHN WALTERS was a majestic vessel with a length of 108′ 5″, sailing the waters of Lake Ontario with grace and elegance. However, its fate took a tragic turn on November 20, 1883, when it was stranded during a powerful storm, the same storm that claimed the China. The ship’s remains now lie on the sandy bottom, offering divers a unique window into the past.
The JOHN WALTERS may be broken up, but its scattered remains still create an enchanting underwater landscape. As you descend into the clear waters, you’ll encounter various sections of the schooner’s hull and structures. The wreck serves as an artificial reef, providing shelter to an array of aquatic life, making it an ideal spot for divers interested in underwater photography and marine biology.
The shallow depth of the wreck allows for longer bottom times, giving novice divers ample opportunity to explore the site’s intriguing features and marine inhabitants.
Access to the JOHN WALTERS is by boat, adding an exciting element to the dive adventure. Novice divers will find this site accessible, but it’s essential to dive with an experienced guide or a dive buddy familiar with the area to ensure safety and a rewarding experience.
While the JOHN WALTERS is suitable for novice divers, caution should still be exercised during the dive. It’s vital to stay within your training limits and adhere to proper buoyancy control to avoid damaging the delicate wreck or disturbing marine life.
Given that the JOHN WALTERS is broken up, underwater navigation is relatively straightforward. Divers can freely explore the scattered remains and take in the historical significance of this sunken vessel.
The JOHN WALTERS offers an exciting dive experience for novice divers seeking to delve into maritime history and discover the enchanting world beneath the surface. With its shallow depth and captivating underwater landscape, this shipwreck is an excellent starting point for those beginning their journey into the world of wreck diving.
Diving theJOHN WALTERS not only provides an opportunity to learn about Ontario’s maritime past but also allows divers to witness the beauty of the underwater world and the rich marine life that now calls this historic site home. It’s a dive that’s sure to leave lasting memories and inspire a passion for further exploration of the Great Lakes’ underwater treasures.
