

Best for advanced divers, 3-80m, shore entry, strong current.
MacDonald Bridge in Halifax Harbour is a challenging shore-accessible dive site featuring submerged bridge infrastructure that acts as an artificial reef. The site drops from 3 to 80 metres, with an average depth of 40 metres. Due to strong currents and heavy boat traffic, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Divers must time entries and exits precisely with slack water to manage the current. Visibility is variable, ranging from 0 to 10 metres. Water temperatures are cold, between 1 and 7 degrees Celsius, requiring a drysuit. Hazards include entanglement risks on the structure, active harbour traffic, and low visibility. Surface cover and a dive flag are essential.
44.66605, -63.58302
Slack water is the only realistic window for working the deeper sections of the structure, so check tidal tables carefully and plan to be in the water well before the current picks up again. Parking is available at the entry point, but surface cover and a dive flag are strongly advised given active harbour traffic above you.
Gear up at parking lot and walk down the road/pathway to the water approx 50m. Watch for trains as you cross the tracks. Small rocky beach at water's edge.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-80m
Visibility
0-10m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
1-7°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Species recorded around this area include rock crabs, common sea stars, European green crabs, sea squirts, snails, tube worms, wrasses, sea ravens, cod, gray seals, and harbor seals.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers only due to strong currents, deep water, and complex navigation requirements.
The site features depths ranging from 3 to 80 metres, with an average depth of 40 metres.
This is a shore-accessible dive located approximately 50 metres from the entry point.
Snorkelling is not recommended due to the significant depth, strong currents, and heavy boat traffic in the harbour.
Diving at MacDonald Bridge in Dartmouth requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at MacDonald Bridge in Dartmouth. Water temperatures range from 1°C to 7°C.
The best months to visit MacDonald Bridge in Dartmouth are January, February, March, and April. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
MacDonald Bridge in Dartmouth can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at MacDonald Bridge in Dartmouth can reach up to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.