reef

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Cades Reef

Look, the Pacific Northwest isn't exactly known for coral reefs, so when we talk about Turnbull, we're really talking about a different kind of magic. This spot, sitting off the coast of British Columbia, delivers a truly unique cold-water experience. Forget the warm blue and think emerald greens and deep blues, filled with life that thrives in chillier temperatures. Our favourite thing about Turnbull has to be the sheer density of invertebrate life. Drop down and you’re immediately enveloped by the swaying fronds of kelp forests, creating an ethereal light show as sunlight filters through. You’ll find walls absolutely plastered with colourful anemones – we’re talking fields of white plumose anemones waving in the current, interspersed with vibrant orange and red varieties. Keep an eye out for the Dungeness crabs scuttling amongst the rocks, often with a curious Spotted Ratfish gliding past. We also frequently encounter enormous Puget Sound King Crabs here, making for some truly spectacular photo opportunities. We'd suggest hitting Turnbull on a slack tide, if possible. The currents can pick up, making it a more challenging dive, but even with a bit of a push, the drift can be exhilarating. It’s a site that really rewards a slow, deliberate exploration, letting your eyes adjust to the subtle beauty of the temperate reef. This is a dive for those who appreciate the intricate details of a cold-water ecosystem, a place where macro life reigns supreme and every crack and crevice holds a new discovery.