Whales Back - Newfoundland

Snapper Reef, now this is a spot we genuinely enjoy, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed dive with a real sense of abundance. It’s not about dramatic drop-offs or swim-throughs here, but rather a sprawling, healthy coral garden that just pulses with activity. We've found the best way to dive it is a gentle drift along the main reef wall, letting the current do the work as you scan the bommies. What really grabs your attention are the schools of fusiliers and damsels – sometimes so thick they form shimmering curtains, momentarily blocking your view of the reef beyond. Peer closer into the coral and you’ll often spot those quirky Indo-Pacific Hairy Hermit Crabs, meticulously picking their way across the Montipora and Pagoda corals. Keep an eye out for the Greensnout Parrotfish, too; their vibrant colours really pop against the blues. For us, Snapper Reef is a perfect morning dive, usually calm enough that even less experienced divers can feel comfortable, but with enough going on to keep seasoned eyes happy. It’s a colourful, lively reef, a true snapshot of the GBR at its best, without being overwhelmingly deep or challenging.

Location
Newfoundland, Canada, North America
Coordinates
47.849890, -53.086970
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Baccalieu Island Ecological Reserve

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 Whales Back

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 Whales Back

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