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Dive Site: The Empty Scuba Park – Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Toronto #

SITE IDENTIFICATION & LOCATION #

  • Name: The Empty Scuba Park
  • Location: Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  • Coordinates: Located on the peninsula within Colonel Samuel Smith Park

SITE DESCRIPTION #

The Empty Scuba Park, despite its seemingly unremarkable name, offers a unique and intriguing diving experience in Toronto. The site is known for its impressive 30-foot rock wall, underwater formations, and abundant marine life. It provides a captivating environment for intermediate to advanced divers looking to explore an urban dive site with rich history and ecological diversity.

DIVE SITE FEATURES #

  1. Rock Wall:
    • Description: The main feature of the site is a 30-foot rock wall constructed from old cement blocks. This wall surrounds the dive area, creating a striking underwater structure. The gaps and crevasses in the wall attract various species of fish, making it an excellent spot for observing marine life and capturing underwater photographs.
    • Marine Life: The rock wall is home to a variety of fish, including pike and walleye, which can often be found hiding in the crevasses.
  2. Underwater Formations:
    • Description: The site features a flat, sandy bottom interspersed with unique formations such as 10-foot “tiles,” small ridges, and pipes. These structures add to the diversity of the underwater landscape and offer opportunities to explore nooks and crannies where marine life may be hiding.
    • Exploration: Divers can enjoy the challenge of navigating these formations while searching for hidden fish and other aquatic creatures.
  3. Fish Life:
    • Description: The site is known for its rich fish population, especially larger species like pike and walleye. The fish are often found in the rock crevasses and around the various underwater formations, making it a rewarding spot for those interested in marine biology or underwater photography.

DIVE SITE CONDITIONS #

  • Depth: The dive site has a depth range of 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 meters), making it suitable for intermediate to advanced divers. The moderate depth allows for extended bottom time while still offering challenges and interesting features to explore.
  • Visibility:
    • Winter: Visibility during the colder months can be exceptional, often exceeding 50 feet (15 meters), providing clear views of the underwater structures and marine life.
    • Summer: Visibility in the summer typically ranges from 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3 meters), though it can occasionally reach 50+ feet, depending on conditions.

ACCESS & LOGISTICS #

  • Shore Entry: The dive site is accessible from shore, with parking available at Colonel Samuel Smith Park Parking. From the parking lot, divers will need to walk approximately 500 meters to reach the dive site. It is recommended to use a wagon or other equipment-carrying aid to transport your gear.
  • Safety Considerations:
    • Rocky Descent: The path down to the water involves descending rocks that may be loose or slippery. Exercise caution to avoid injury.
    • Post-Dive Walk: Be prepared for the 500-meter walk back to your car after the dive. For winter diving, carry spare clothes in case of a drysuit flood or other exposure issues.

CAUTIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS #

  • Conditions: Always check the weather and water conditions before diving, particularly in the summer when visibility may be reduced. Plan your dive accordingly, and consider rescheduling if conditions are unfavorable.
  • Equipment: Ensure your scuba gear is well-maintained and suitable for the dive. Adequate exposure protection is crucial, especially during colder months when water temperatures can be quite low.

CONCLUSION #

The Empty Scuba Park at Colonel Samuel Smith Park may be an unassuming name, but it offers a diverse and engaging underwater environment for divers. The impressive rock wall, varied formations, and thriving fish life provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re interested in underwater photography, marine biology, or just enjoying a unique dive in the heart of Toronto, this site has something to offer.

With its accessible shore entry, moderate depths, and interesting underwater features, the Empty Scuba Park is a hidden gem for intermediate to advanced divers seeking a rewarding and different dive experience in an urban setting.

Photogallery 2024CC Mark Trueski

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