Diving in Newfoundland

Explore 30 dive sites in Newfoundland, Canada. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Newfoundland

The warmest water temperatures in Newfoundland occur in August, averaging 15.9°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 0.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 2.3°C
  • February: 1.1°C
  • March: 0.3°C
  • April: 1.3°C
  • May: 3.9°C
  • June: 7.3°C
  • July: 12.4°C
  • August: 15.9°C
  • September: 14.6°C
  • October: 11.9°C
  • November: 8.0°C
  • December: 4.6°C

Marine Life in Newfoundland

Home to 72 recorded species including 35 reef fish, 13 whales & dolphins, 7 sharks & rays, 5 seagrass & algae, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 soft corals.

Recommended Packing List for Newfoundland

Based on average water temperature of 7.0°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Drysuit - water at 7°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in Newfoundland

  • Terra Nova Migratory Bird Sanctuary - Migratory Bird Sanctuary (IUCN Category II)
  • Baccalieu Island Ecological Reserve - Ecological Reserve (IUCN Category II)
  • Funk Island Ecological Reserve - Ecological Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Witless Bay Ecological Reserve - Ecological Reserve (IUCN Category II)
  • Bellevue Beach Provincial Park - Provincial Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Deadman's Bay Provincial Park - Provincial Park (IUCN Category III)
  • Dungeon Provincial Park - Provincial Park (IUCN Category III)
  • Gooseberry Cove Provincial Park - Provincial Park (IUCN Category III)
  • Eastport – Duck Island Marine Protected Area - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Mistaken Point - World Heritage Site (natural or mixed) (IUCN Category Not Applicable)
  • Eastport – Round Island Marine Protected Area - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Lobster Area Closure (Gander Bay) - Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measure (IUCN Category Not Applicable)
  • Lobster Area Closure (Gooseberry Island) - Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measure (IUCN Category Not Applicable)

Getting to Newfoundland - Nearest Airports

  • St. John's International Airport (YYT), St. John's - 74 km away, approx 96 min travel time
  • Gander International Airport (YQX), Gander - 125 km away, approx 151 min travel time
  • Saint-Pierre Pointe-Blanche Airport (FSP), Saint-Pierre - 250 km away, approx 288 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water temperatures and visibility like for scuba diving in Newfoundland?
Scuba diving in Newfoundland offers cooler water temperatures, with the warmest months being August at approximately 15.94°C, September at 14.63°C, and July at 12.43°C. While specific visibility data isn't provided, divers should be prepared for cold water conditions. For more details on optimal diving times, visit our when to dive section.
What kind of unique marine life can divers expect to see in Newfoundland's waters?
Divers in Newfoundland can look forward to unique marine life encounters, most notably with humpback whales. While exploring the region's diverse underwater environments, keep an eye out for these magnificent creatures. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Where are the best dive sites in Newfoundland, especially for wreck diving or unique underwater features?
Newfoundland is renowned for its exceptional wreck diving, particularly the historic Bell Island WWII wrecks. Popular wreck sites include the SS Saganaga, HMS CALYPSO, and the Lord Strathcona Wreck. Beyond wrecks, divers can explore vibrant reef systems like PM-27 and East Reefs, offering a variety of underwater features.
What level of diving experience is recommended for diving in Newfoundland, particularly for popular sites like Bell Island?
Diving in Newfoundland, including its popular Bell Island WWII wrecks, is generally recommended for divers with an intermediate level of experience. The majority of listed dive sites, such as the SS Saganaga and HMS CALYPSO, are suitable for those with this certification level. It's always wise to dive with a local dive centre for guidance.
When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Newfoundland to experience optimal conditions and marine life?
The optimal time to go scuba diving in Newfoundland for the warmest water temperatures is during the summer months. August offers the highest average temperature at 15.94°C, followed by September at 14.63°C and July at 12.43°C. This period also increases your chances for exciting marine life encounters, including humpback whales.
Are drysuits required or highly recommended for diving in Newfoundland?
Given the cooler water temperatures in Newfoundland, with even the warmest months like August reaching only 15.94°C, drysuits are highly recommended for comfortable diving. While not explicitly stated as required, they will significantly enhance your experience and extend your bottom time in these conditions. You can find more information on cold water gear on our equipment page.
How can travelers get to Newfoundland for a diving trip?
Information regarding specific travel routes and transportation options to Newfoundland for a diving trip is not available in the current data context. We recommend checking general travel guides for Canada to plan your journey.
Are there opportunities for iceberg diving or snorkeling with whales in Newfoundland?
Yes, Newfoundland offers unique opportunities for both iceberg diving and snorkeling with whales. The region is specifically highlighted for its thrilling iceberg diving experiences and encounters with humpback whales. These activities provide unforgettable adventures in the North Atlantic.