Great Slave Lake – Arctic & Northern Canada

Dive Briefing

"Great Slave Lake offers diving to 50 metres with an average depth of 30 metres in the freshwater and wall environment. The site features moderate biodiversity with Lake Trout, Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, and Arctic marine organisms. Access is by boat with a 25-minute boat ride. The extreme Arctic conditions provide a unique diving experience unlike anywhere else in Canada. Divers should plan their descent carefully, monitoring depth and air consumption throughout the dive. The site rewards patient divers who take time to explore the smaller features and crevices where marine life shelters. Buoyancy control is essential for protecting the delicate marine ecosystems and maximising bottom time in the cold water environment. Communication with dive buddies is important given the cold water conditions and potential for rapid environmental changes. Safety stops should be planned conservatively given the cold water exposure and potential for thermoclines at depth. The dive plan should include careful assessment of entry and exit points, particularly for shore dives where rocky terrain requires appropriate footwear and caution. Underwater navigation follows the natural contours of the reef or wreck structure, with divers maintaining close buddy contact throughout the dive. Emergency procedures should be reviewed before entry, including the location of the nearest exit point and the availability of surface support. Post-dive warming is essential given the cold water exposure, with hot beverages and warm clothing readily available on the boat or at the shore base."