dive site advice - Tobemory Aug 2017

[rick00001967]

hello
i am making my first trip to Tobemory at the start of August this summer. was there back when i was a kid but that doesn't count.

i have been trying to research some info on choosing dives sites. i will state upfront that yes, i am aware that the sites chosen for the day are usually dictated by the weather and over all conditions. but if you had your choice, what would be your top 5 picks ? btw....not interested in "the caves".....just sayin.

from what i have read, it seems the arabia, niagara 2, and forest city seem to be at the top of most lists. but i have concerns, as i have also read that particularly the arabia and forest city can be extremely hazardous dives depending on conditions. forest city also seems to be a dive that to fully appreciate, you must go well past the 100 foot mark (down to 150 feet max). this depth would be outside my normal range.

the cold water will not be a factor as i spend a fair bit of time in 45 to 50 degree water at home. and it seems the Tobemory area in general should have viz that far surpasses our average local conditions.

any advice welcome. especially from those who have multiple dives in this area.
thx
rick

 

[Stoo]

Hey Rick...

Tob is my second home and has been for the past 40 years. I've logged thousands of dives there so I guess I know it as well as anyone...

You have nailed the top 3 for sure. I disagree with your assessment of the "FC". Most folks hover over the back deck and you can do that at 125-130 and get a great view. I spend a lot of time pustzing about in the mud beyond the wreck, but that's just me.

Arabia is a classic wreck and shouldn't be missed. While she lies in about 105 - 110', you can do a nice flyover in less than 100'...

Niagara is a great wreck for playing about. I am generally not a fan on non-historic (i.e. fake) wrecks but there's no denying the appeal.

Be sure to check out the King, Scoville and Wetmore as well. The caves, in spite of your hesitation is nice, and the geology in the surrounding area is cool as well. The Caroline Rose is down that way as well.

Further afield, the San Jacinta and City of Cleveland are great dives. Divers Den often does Arabia/SJ/Cleveland full days which are excellent.

There are some decent shore dives as well... Lighthouse, Tugs, Dave's Bay. The Park staff or dive shop staff can assist with location.

Check out the wreck page on my website. Most images there are from Tobermory. Shipwrecks! - wetspot

There is also an article coming out in the next issue of Diver Mag that has some good info, so I've heard... ;-)

Here's a shot of Mrs Stoo on the Forest City on Saturday. Looks nice yes? It was hailing and pouring rain up above. We extended our deco so we didn't get wet. If you feel we are too far apart, I shoot with a 10 mm lens, and her buddy is just below her, behind the hull, on a rebreather.