FREDERICK L BLAIR - Newfoundland

The Frederick L Blair, stranded off Herring Neck, isn't your typical deep-water wreck. This wooden fishing vessel, beached after an engine room fire in 1971, sits in surprisingly shallow water. We love that it’s accessible to almost anyone, a fantastic shore dive if you’re exploring Newfoundland. What you'll find here is less about penetration and more about the skeletal remains of a working boat, slowly succumbing to the sea. The timbers are still largely intact, creating shadowy nooks and crannies that are home to sculpins and anemones. You can trace the outline of its 36-metre length, imagining the crew’s hurried escape. We’d suggest diving this one on a calm day; the visibility can drop quickly with a chop, but when it’s clear, the light filtering through the remains is striking. It’s an interesting contrast to the area's deeper, steel wrecks.

Location
Newfoundland, Canada, North America
Coordinates
49.650000, -54.583332
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Lobster Area Closure (Gander Bay)

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

Nearby Dive Sites in Newfoundland

Nearest Dive Centres to FREDERICK L BLAIR

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.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for FREDERICK L BLAIR

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Frederick L. Blair site?
The Frederick L. Blair dive site is notably shallow, with a reported depth of 0m. This suggests the wreck is located right at the surface or in extremely shallow water, making it accessible for various diving and snorkeling activities. Divers can explore the remains of this wooden fishing vessel in very close proximity to the surface.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Frederick L. Blair?
At the Frederick L. Blair site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a 36.3m x 7.9m wooden fishing vessel. This wreck, sunk in 1971, is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed, the structure of the wreck itself provides the primary underwater feature for exploration.
How difficult is the Frederick L. Blair dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Frederick L. Blair dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training can enjoy exploring this wreck. It offers a rewarding experience for those comfortable with intermediate conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at Frederick L. Blair for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at the Frederick L. Blair site for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in our current data. We recommend checking local dive reports or contacting a dive operator in Newfoundland for up-to-date seasonal insights. You can also explore general information on when to dive.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the Frederick L. Blair dive site?
Our current data does not specify any particular diving certifications required to explore the Frederick L. Blair dive site. However, given its intermediate difficulty, it is generally recommended that divers possess at least an Open Water certification with some experience. Always consult with local dive centers in Newfoundland for their specific recommendations and requirements.
What are the usual current and water conditions like at the Frederick L. Blair dive site?
Our available data does not provide specific details on the usual current or water conditions at the Frederick L. Blair dive site. For the most accurate and current information on local conditions, including currents and water temperature, it is best to consult with local dive operators or guides in Newfoundland.