Underwater Chess, Dolime Quarry, Kitchener, Ontario

DIVE TYPE: Shore Dive #

A Unique Dive Adventure: The Underwater Chess Board #

The Dolime Quarry in Kitchener, Ontario, offers a unique and engaging dive experience with its famous underwater chess board. This former limestone quarry has been transformed into a popular dive site, attracting divers with its clear waters, intriguing underwater features, and of course, the fully functional underwater chess board. This dive site is perfect for both novice and experienced divers looking for an unusual and memorable underwater experience.

ACCESS #

Location:

• Dolime Quarry, Kitchener, Ontario
• Google Maps Location: Dolime Quarry

Steps for Entry:

1. Parking: Park at the designated area near the quarry entrance. Ensure that you have permission to dive, as access may be restricted or require prior arrangements.
2. Gearing Up: Gear up at the parking area. The entry point is a short walk from the parking lot to the water’s edge.
3. Entry: Enter the water from the shore. The quarry has a gradual descent, making for an easy entry and exit.
4. Dive Plan: Begin your dive by following the quarry wall, which will lead you to the underwater chess board. The chess board is located at a depth of around 30 feet (9 meters). Take your time to explore the surrounding area, as the quarry is home to various underwater features, including submerged trees and platforms.

VISIBILITY #

Conditions:

• Visibility in Dolime Quarry is generally good, ranging from 20 to 50 feet depending on weather conditions and the number of divers in the water. Early morning or weekday dives typically offer the best visibility.

ADDITIONAL TIPS #

Equipment:

• Dive Light: Bring a dive light to illuminate the chess board and other features, especially if diving on an overcast day or in lower light conditions.
• Thick Wetsuit or Drysuit: The water temperature in the quarry can be chilly, particularly at depth, so a 7mm wetsuit or a drysuit is recommended for comfort.
• Buoyancy Control: The quarry has a variety of depths and features, so good buoyancy control is essential, particularly when approaching the chess board to avoid disturbing the pieces.

Safety:

• Dive with a Buddy: As always, dive with a buddy for safety. The quarry is a controlled environment, but depth and cold water can still pose challenges.
• Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Consider using an SMB, especially if visibility is lower or if other groups are diving in the area.

YouTube Video #

RESOURCES & LINKS #

• Google Maps Location: Dolime Quarry, Kitchener, Ontario
• Local Dive Shops: Contact local dive shops in Kitchener for up-to-date information on conditions and access permissions.
• Wikipedia: No specific Wikipedia page for Dolime Quarry, but general information about quarry diving can be found here.
• Ontario Underwater Council: Ontario Underwater Council for further information on diving regulations and quarry dives in Ontario.

CONCLUSION #

The Dolime Quarry dive site, with its underwater chess board, offers a distinctive and enjoyable dive experience for those looking to explore something out of the ordinary. Whether you’re playing a submerged game of chess or simply marveling at the quarry’s underwater landscape, this site promises an engaging adventure. The quarry’s clear waters, combined with its unique underwater features, make it a must-visit location for divers in Ontario.

TAGS #

• Shore Dive
• Ontario Diving
• Recreational Dive
• Underwater Chess Board
• Freshwater Dive
• Quarry Dive