Very few people have the opportunity to explore the Arctic. Even fewer have the chance to explore beneath the Arctic. The magical ecosystem below the surface is home to many different animals, such as narwhals, walruses and beluga whales.
Apart from experiencing one of the most unique oceans in the world, you’ll also take home memories and stories to last a lifetime from your incredible diving adventure.
So, if you’re adventurous enough to consider Arctic diving, here are some questions you may have before booking your arctic diving trip.
What’s It Like to Dive in Arctic Conditions?
Diving in Arctic conditions is one of the most adventurous and unique diving scenarios you can experience — a must if you want to fill up your dive passport with something unforgettable.
When’s the Best Time of Year To Go Arctic Diving?
The Arctic offers the best diving conditions from April to September as the weather begins to warm up.
How Cold Is Arctic Water?
The average temperature in Baffin Island in the summer ranges from 32-60 degrees Fahrenheit, dropping as low as 22 degrees in the winter. The average water temperature during the diving season — April to September — is 28 degrees.
How Do Arctic Divers Stay Warm?
Arctic divers must wear a drysuit, hood and gloves. These will keep you dry and warm, leaving you to enjoy the wonders around you.
What Can You See Diving in the Arctic?
The Arctic is home to fascinating marine mammals, ocean plants and jaw-dropping ice formations. During Arctic diving trips, you can expect to see:
- Beluga whales
- Narwhals
- Ringed seals
- Walruses
- Polar bears
- Polar sea stars (starfish)
- Phytoplankton
- Jellyfish
What’s the Visibility Like in Arctic Water?
Since the water is warming up at the beginning of the diving season in April and May, the visibility is excellent for divers. Depending on other conditions, you can expect the visibility to range from five to 50 feet, giving you a clear view of some of the planet’s most spectacular ice formations.
What Is the Floe Edge?
The floe edge is where open water meets ice still attached to the shoreline. It’s the central spot for common marine mammals, making it an ideal location for diving. It also has strong historical ties to the local Inuit, who have a vast knowledge of the area.
What Kind of Diving Is Available in the Arctic?
The classic Arctic diving experience involves seeing breathtaking ice formations and impressive marine animals native to the region.
What Wreck Diving Is There in the Arctic?
There's a wreck diving opportunity at the site of the recently discovered HMS Terror shipwreck. Located near King William Island in Nunavut, the wreck is one of two ships that disappeared in Canada during an expedition in the 1840s.
What Certifications Do You Need for Arctic Diving?
To be legally allowed to complete an Arctic dive, you must complete the PADI Ice Diver Course. The course is available to Advanced Open Water divers.
Which Instructors Will I Be Safest With?
Diving in the Arctic can be very dangerous and challenging if you’re not under the guidance and supervision of someone capable of ensuring your safety.
Arctic Kingdom diving expeditions are led by a skilled Arctic dive master with vast experience of the area.
What Diving Skills Should I Be Familiar With?
All the skills you learn in your PADI Ice Diver course are sufficient to stay safe during Arctic diving. Make sure you’re familiar with:
- Types of ice
- Effects of cold temperatures
- Emergency procedures
- Handling equipment issues
To make the most of your Arctic diving experience, be honest about your preparedness. Taking a refresher course through PADI is always an option should you need it.
Check Out Our Baffin Island Dive Safari
As experts in Arctic diving, Arctic Kingdom can take you to the ultimate dive site located in the Canadian territory of Nunavut.
On our Baffin Island Expedition, you’ll be guided by local experts above and below the Arctic, enjoying Northern Canada’s natural beauty.
If you’re looking for an elite diving experience alongside an exhilarating above-ground expedition of the Arctic, this trip is for you. Click below to see what you can expect from our Arctic diving trip.
