

Best for advanced divers, 5-23m, boat entry, strong current.
Arbutus Point is a reef and wall dive site located in Victoria, Canada. The topography features shallow reef sections starting at 5 metres that drop to 23 metres along the wall. Due to strong currents and surge, this site is suited for advanced divers and requires boat access. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 5 to 25 metres. Water temperatures remain cold year-round, typically between 7 and 14 degrees Celsius, making a drysuit essential. Divers should be aware of boat traffic and use a surface marker buoy on every ascent. Plan dives around slack water to manage the strong currents effectively.
48.71380, -123.43140
Time your entry around slack water and plan your drift with the current rather than against it, as the flow here can be unforgiving if you misread the tide. Check locally for current boat traffic patterns before heading out, as there are no facilities confirmed at this site.
Accessible by powerboat, sailboat or kayak. The rest of the park is reached by car ferry from Swartz Bay to Mayne, Saturna or Pender Islands.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-23m
Visibility
5-25m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
7-14°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
The site ranges from 5 metres at the shallow reef sections to 23 metres along the wall, with an average depth of 10 metres.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to strong currents, surge, and cold water conditions.
Access is by boat only. There are no facilities confirmed at this site.
Snorkelling is not recommended due to the strong currents, surge, and depth of the wall.
Divers must contend with strong currents, surge, cold water, and active boat traffic. A surface marker buoy is required for all ascents.
Diving at Arbutus Point in Sidney requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Arbutus Point in Sidney. Water temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C.
Arbutus Point in Sidney can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Arbutus Point in Sidney typically ranges from 5 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.