

Best for beginner divers, 3-30m, shore entry, mild current.
Deep Cove, located at the northern tip of the Saanich Peninsula, offers a protected shore dive suitable for beginners. The site features a reef and artificial reef structure with depths ranging from 3 to 30 metres, averaging 15 metres. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including very common Ochre Sea Stars, Rock Crabs, and various other crabs. Less frequently, divers record East Pacific Red Octopuses, Bobtail Squid, Scorpionfish, Monterey Dorids, Egg-yolk Jellyfish, Toadfish, Grunt Sculpins, King Crabs, Pacific Lion's Mane Jellyfish, Nanaimo Dorids, and Leather Stars. Access is via stairs, and the site is sheltered from open ocean swells, though divers should remain aware of boat traffic and potential current.
48.68450, -123.48450
Divers should practice leave-no-trace principles and pack out all garbage as there are no receptacles on-site.
Accessible via Setchell Road on the northern Saanich Peninsula. Divers can enter the water using provided stairs and flat rock areas.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-30m
Visibility
9-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
7-14°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Divers regularly encounter Ochre Sea Stars, Rock Crabs, and various other crabs. Less common sightings include East Pacific Red Octopuses, Bobtail Squid, Scorpionfish, Monterey Dorids, Egg-yolk Jellyfish, Toadfish, Grunt Sculpins, King Crabs, Pacific Lion's Mane Jellyfish, Nanaimo Dorids, and Leather Stars.
Yes, Deep Cove is considered suitable for beginner divers due to its protected nature and easy stair access.
The site ranges from 3 to 30 metres in depth, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Deep Cove is a shore dive accessed via stairs.
Yes, the site has a snorkel rating of 3 out of 5.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Deep Cove in North Saanich. Water temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C.
Deep Cove in North Saanich typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Deep Cove in North Saanich typically ranges from 9 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.