West St Boat Ramp, Kingston ON

Dive Site: West Street Boat Ramp, Kingston, Ontario #

SITE IDENTIFICATION & LOCATION #

• Name: West Street Boat Ramp Dive Site
• Location: West Street, Kingston, Ontario (Part of the Marine Museum Dive Area)
• Coordinates: General area around the West Street Boat Ramp, Kingston, Ontario
• Depth: 33 feet (11 meters)

SITE DESCRIPTION #

The West Street Boat Ramp dive site is a unique and intriguing underwater location located in Kingston, Ontario. Part of the broader Marine Museum Dive Area, this site features a mix of historical and modern debris, making it a fascinating spot for divers interested in exploring both man-made and natural underwater environments.

The site is a very active boat launch area, so it is recommended to dive here when boats are out of the water, typically during off-seasons or at times of low boat traffic. The water depth reaches up to 33 feet (11 meters), offering divers a manageable yet interesting environment to explore.

DIVE SITE FEATURES #

1. Scow Remains:

   • Description: The remnants of a scow, a flat-bottomed boat used historically for transporting goods and materials, can be found at this site. The scow’s structure may be partially buried or broken apart, but it still provides a glimpse into the maritime history of Kingston.
   • Historical Context: Scows were commonly used in the Great Lakes region for construction and transport, making this a significant historical artifact.

2. Submerged Cars:

   • Description: There are two cars submerged at the site, likely placed there deliberately as part of underwater cleanup or dive site enhancements. These vehicles provide an interesting visual contrast to the natural underwater environment and serve as artificial reefs for marine life.
   • Exploration: The cars are popular with divers for their novelty and the marine life they attract, but caution should be taken due to potential sharp edges and entanglement hazards.

3. Barge Remnants:

   • Description: Parts of an old barge can be found near the scow remains. These remnants may include metal frames, wooden beams, or other structural components, adding to the site’s industrial feel.
   • Significance: Barges played a vital role in Kingston’s maritime trade, making these remnants an important part of the city’s underwater heritage.

4. Bike:

   • Description: A bicycle has found its way to the bottom near the boat ramp, adding a touch of urban detritus to the site. While not historically significant, it contributes to the diverse range of items found underwater here.
   • Exploration: The bike may be partially covered in algae and marine growth, making it an interesting find during a dive.

5. Laser Sailboat:

   • Description: A Laser sailboat, a popular small racing dinghy, is also submerged at the site. It might have been lost during a storm or deliberately sunk.
   • Significance: While relatively modern, the sailboat is a notable feature for divers, particularly those interested in recreational sailing.

6. Debris:

   • Description: The site includes various pieces of debris, ranging from construction materials to discarded objects, which have accumulated over time.
   • Exploration: Divers should navigate carefully, as debris can create entanglement risks and obscure visibility.

DIVE SITE CONDITIONS #

• Access: The site is easily accessible from the West Street Boat Ramp, making it convenient for both shore and boat dives. However, due to its active use as a boat launch, it is crucial to dive when boat traffic is minimal.
• Difficulty Level: The site is suitable for divers of all experience levels, though attention should be paid to the varying conditions caused by debris and the potential for entanglement.
• Visibility: Visibility can vary significantly depending on the weather, boat traffic, and time of year. It’s recommended to dive during calm conditions for the best experience.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS #

• Boat Traffic: Due to the busy nature of the boat ramp, it is imperative to dive when boats are not in the water to avoid potential hazards.
• Debris and Hazards: The site contains a mix of debris and submerged objects that could pose risks such as sharp edges, entanglement, and poor visibility. Diving with a buddy and carrying appropriate safety tools, such as a cutting device, is advisable.
• Depth Management: While the depth is manageable at 33 feet (11 meters), divers should be cautious of sudden changes in underwater terrain.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

1. Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston

   • Provides historical context and information about the Kingston waterfront, including dive sites like West Street.
   • Marine Museum of the Great Lakes

2. Ontario Underwater Council

   • Offers resources and guidelines for diving in Ontario, including safety tips and site descriptions.
   • Ontario Underwater Council

3. Save Ontario Shipwrecks (SOS)

   • Focuses on the preservation and exploration of Ontario’s underwater heritage, with insights into dive sites around Kingston.
   • Save Ontario Shipwrecks

4. Local Dive Shops and Clubs

   • Local dive shops and clubs in Kingston offer guided dives, equipment rentals, and site-specific information.
   • Dive Kingston

Chrysler Newport – Matthew Charlesworth 2023 cc