Consider New England Scuba Diving For An Experience With A Difference

By Ladonna Chambers


Many people think that the only great destinations for diving are tropical coral reefs like those of the Caribbean or the Pacific. These places are indeed wonderful for underwater explorers because they offer such a variety of colorful ocean creatures. However, cold-water diving is a wonderful experience too. New England scuba clubs know that their ocean and lakes offer unforgettable experiences.

Tourists usually visit New England for the beautiful colors of the foliage in fall. However, the region has a huge variety of dive sites where you can explore the worlds under water. Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Maine are obvious choices since they have a long stretch of Atlantic coastline and many islands offshore. However, Vermont is a great scuba destination too because of its many lakes.

The great thing about diving in the north-eastern part of the United States is that there are so many different types of diving you can do. There are caves and wrecks to explore and you can also try and get some lobster for the pot. In winter there is ice diving for the more adventurous and if you want to try diving at higher altitudes, you'll find plenty of mountain lakes to suit your needs.

If you're interested in saltwater diving, be sure to head for Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island or Connecticut. New Hampshire has a small stretch of Atlantic coastline too. In these waters, chances are good that curious seals will try to come closer and you might also see sharks or whales. There are about 150 shipwrecks to explore, among them the World War 2-era Coimbra off Connecticut and the German submarine U-853 off Rhode Island.

The inland parts has plenty of dive sites too. With about 2,500 lakes and smaller ponds and several quarries, you can take your pick of freshwater dive sites. One spot that you shouldn't miss out on is Lake Champlain in Vermont. Here, centuries of boat traffic across the lake has meant that there are age-old wrecks to explore.

Aquarium diving is an interesting option too. The region's largest aquarium dive club is located at the New England Aquarium. If you're looking for something more extreme, however, be sure to wait until winter and then go ice diving. There is a very special thrill to having a thick layer of ice above your head while you're under water.

The type of diving will dictate the equipment you will need. A wetsuit is essential, though, no matter where in the area you dive. Even in summer the water can be very chilly. In winter a drysuit over thermal undergarments is the best option. A dive light is indispensable in the murky water and you'll also need your usual safety equipment.

If you want to dive in the region, it's a good idea to search diving websites and online forums first to find out what your options are. New England scuba shops and clubs are located near most of the main dive sites and will be happy to help you with tips and advice. They may even arrange trips for you so all you need to do is bring your camera.




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