Divers Den
Divers Den
4.5
Scuba & Snorkelling • Fishing Charters & Tours
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9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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About
Tobermory, Ontario, Canada
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Travelers' Choice
2022
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(66 reviews)
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
857 reviews
Excellent
700
Very good
95
Average
24
Poor
21
Terrible
17
Arek C
4 contributions
Sep 2020
For the 7th year, I travelled with my son to Tobermory to explore local shipwreck with Divers Den. 2020 brought upon many unexpected changes, but Divers Den stood up to the challenge of ensuring the safety of their staff and guests.
Some may find the new rules annoying, but they are necessary, so suck it up. Masks are required on a boat while travelling to dive sides, and I highly recommend baklava vs. standard face mask as they are way more convenient to use.
Expect a slightly longer wait time when entering the shop due to the limited number of people allowed inside, so plan accordingly.
Divers Den is well organized to manage a high number of reservations and rentals. The fleet offers a verity of boats that will safely take you to various dive sites. The staff is very security-focused and provides a detailed briefing on each dive site, with the history of the wreck and water conditions. This year, Divers Den offers only advanced dives, so make sure your skills up to date. Expect very cold water below the thermocline ( < 50 ft) and “balmy” conditions above it and some currents. It is always fun and a pleasure to dive with Divers Den.
Thank you, Kelly and the team, for another memorable weekend.
Some may find the new rules annoying, but they are necessary, so suck it up. Masks are required on a boat while travelling to dive sides, and I highly recommend baklava vs. standard face mask as they are way more convenient to use.
Expect a slightly longer wait time when entering the shop due to the limited number of people allowed inside, so plan accordingly.
Divers Den is well organized to manage a high number of reservations and rentals. The fleet offers a verity of boats that will safely take you to various dive sites. The staff is very security-focused and provides a detailed briefing on each dive site, with the history of the wreck and water conditions. This year, Divers Den offers only advanced dives, so make sure your skills up to date. Expect very cold water below the thermocline ( < 50 ft) and “balmy” conditions above it and some currents. It is always fun and a pleasure to dive with Divers Den.
Thank you, Kelly and the team, for another memorable weekend.
Written September 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hubbachick
Montreal, Canada28 contributions
Jul 2021
Snorkeling over a shipwreck is really something. The wrecks are well preserved due to the cold water, and close to the surface. I would definitely do this again and recommend it to anyone.
Going in is a shock, but you can keep relatively warm by holding your hands above water. We had plenty of time to spend at the wreck, and ended up returning to shore early as all of the guests had seen enough.
There were scuba divers at the same wreck and it was really cool to peer down on them going into the ship and see the bubbles floating up from their tanks.
The dock is a short walk from "home base".
Staff were courteous and helpful. We could have done with a little more advance instruction, like which way round to wear the wetsuits, whether to put the boots on the outside or inside, the fact that they are bouyant so no life jacket is needed, how long it will take to get to and from the wreck.
Only real minus point: the equipment is stored outside so the wetsuits get or stay wet when it rains, meaning big struggles to get into them.
Going in is a shock, but you can keep relatively warm by holding your hands above water. We had plenty of time to spend at the wreck, and ended up returning to shore early as all of the guests had seen enough.
There were scuba divers at the same wreck and it was really cool to peer down on them going into the ship and see the bubbles floating up from their tanks.
The dock is a short walk from "home base".
Staff were courteous and helpful. We could have done with a little more advance instruction, like which way round to wear the wetsuits, whether to put the boots on the outside or inside, the fact that they are bouyant so no life jacket is needed, how long it will take to get to and from the wreck.
Only real minus point: the equipment is stored outside so the wetsuits get or stay wet when it rains, meaning big struggles to get into them.
Written July 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark T
2 contributions
Jul 2020 • Friends
Last July my brother and I went to the Divers Den to get our padi open water diver certification. We were really nervous about it and we had an instructor that was not able to calm our nerves. We ended up panicking once we put the gear on and ended up bailing on the entire experience. We left feeling defeated and like failures. We reached out a week ago to the Divers Den to try for our Open Water certification again. They happily welcomed us back and honored our payment from last year. On the drive up Tobermory my brother and I were 90% convinced that wouldn't be able to do it and that our nerves would get the best of us again. That is when we met Bastien and Alex. They completely changed our diving experience. They could tell we were nervous and Alex told us not to worry we are in great hands with Bastien. Everyone talks about that wow moment when you first scuba dive and Bastien was able to make that happen for us. Right from the time the door opened at the shop to our final dive Bastien was able to not only calm our nerves but also understand all our worries and concerns. He was extremely patient with us especially knowing our experience from the year before. From his in depth explanations to his underwater fist pumps and hugs he knows how to keep you calm and guide you in pushing yourself to the the next level with zero pressure. His knowledge of diving is insane and he knows how to answer any question you ever possibly have. Bastien goes to your schedule and only as fast you as you want to go. It was an amazing experience and we never would have gotten to the finish line without Bastien. If he can teach us he can teach you too. Bastien is amazing along with the entire staff at the Divers Den. I would highly recommend asking for Bastien for your instructor. Thanks so much Bastien we couldn't have gotten to where we are without you. Friends for life. Mark and Tim.
Written July 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GuyDiver2014
Dominican Republic53 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
We did reserved the afternoon dive, Open Water Divers, as we did’n know if you were only OWD if they would let us dive the morning site. First time diving with Divers Den. We paid 125$ each and were happy to dive the Carolina Rose and the Cave. But once on the boat there was a change in plans as there was Junior Scuba Diver that are limited to 12 meters. Half the divers felt robbed as they thought they were going for 17 meters and ended up doing two dives in 2.5 meters that could have been done snorkeling. For the price paid it was not worth it. By the time we arrived to dive the OWD was now Advance and I am an instructor Trainer Evaluator. In my book the junior shouldn’t has been on the boat.
For the second day of diving we (4 divers) change for the morning Advance dives and it was as promised and everyone was happy and it was worth the money paid
For the second day of diving we (4 divers) change for the morning Advance dives and it was as promised and everyone was happy and it was worth the money paid
Written August 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dirk262
Sarnia, Canada6 contributions
Jul 2021
We just completed 2 days of boat diving in the afternoon. Although the wind was strong and as a result dive sites were limited it was still very disappointing to do the same dive site on 2 consecutive afternoons - especially since the dive site max death was only 6 meters and is more of a snorkel site than a dive site.
The captain of the boat was very friendly and professional but it would appear that the owners is trying to safe some money by not outfitting the boats properly? No place for your gear, tanks except under the seat you sit on with very little space between people. Maybe we're just used to the Neptune dive boats that is properly set up for divers?
Some of the staff at Divers Den was friendly and answered all our questions but some staff could not even bother getting up from their chair.
Overall I would have to give an average rating but unfortunately they are the only dive shop in Tobermory. I would guess that if another dive shop open in Tobermory then they would see a definite decline in business as people would rather go to a better set up.
The captain of the boat was very friendly and professional but it would appear that the owners is trying to safe some money by not outfitting the boats properly? No place for your gear, tanks except under the seat you sit on with very little space between people. Maybe we're just used to the Neptune dive boats that is properly set up for divers?
Some of the staff at Divers Den was friendly and answered all our questions but some staff could not even bother getting up from their chair.
Overall I would have to give an average rating but unfortunately they are the only dive shop in Tobermory. I would guess that if another dive shop open in Tobermory then they would see a definite decline in business as people would rather go to a better set up.
Written August 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Devanshi S
1 contribution
Jul 2021 • Family
We had a great experience with Diver's den. We went snorkeling with an 8 year old and they take good care of everyone's safety. My only suggestion is that they should have a smaller group so less tike is wasted. We saw only 1 shipwreck in 2 hours because most time was wasted in waiting for everyone and coordination.
Written July 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda T
26 contributions
Jul 2022
Our Captain on the Bruce Isle, Brian, and our snorkel guide, Justin, were amazing. The first step, getting our wetsuits and other snorkeling gear, was easy and fun. The ride out to our site was great. Because we were ready early, we had more time to snorkel above the sunken ship to see the different sections as Justin guided us around the cove. Definitely worth the time and braving the cold water (in July the lake water hasn't warmed up much even in the coves).
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike
Toronto, Canada3 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
I’ve been diving Tobermory for close to 10 years. It’s a great environment to sharpen your skills. Shipwrecks at various sites and depths for divers of all skills. Some sites are even accessible for snorkeling.....that’s where the problem exists. The charter we had arranged was supposed to visit the Grotto (a great spot for all diving levels). On the day of departure the trip was changed without informing the passengers. We visited the Minch and Sweepstakes. Both sites are good spots if you’re a brand new diver. Otherwise, both are snorkeling adventures. The sites are full of people slashing around on the surface, you’re dodging fins the whole time. Make sure you confirm with Diver’s Den prior to departure that the dive you requested is the dive you’re doing. Plans change on the day with NO communication. My recommendation: shore dive the Alice G and Lighthouse. Both offer the same experience but save the cost of charter $110 pp
More advanced sites: Niagara II / Arabia / Forest City.....well worth the price
More advanced sites: Niagara II / Arabia / Forest City.....well worth the price
Written August 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lara Azevedo
1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Friends
The whole experience was very disappointing to say the least. For starters, we got there one hour early as recommended, but the group that was going before us was still waiting for their suit and gear.
After waiting for pretty much 1 hour, we were given stinky and soaked wet boots, ripped and extremely big suits (my husband is 5'6" and 162 pounds, and was given an XL to wear) after they insisted an XS would fit him (what's the logic here?). They did the same with two friends that were with us (given suits that were nowhere near the right size and insisted it was a perfect fit)
It was clear they did not have enough equipment to everyone, and most of the staff had no training whatsoever.
We both also received kids snorkels and masks (which I noticed and asked to be exchanged, but my husband didn't, so he ended up in the boat with it)
The suit was absolute garbage. All ripped and glued together in the corners, there was a rip in the back so big I could fit my whole hand in it. There were 4 of us, and only one ended up with a decent suit.
After that whole thing, we went to the boat over 40 minutes late. Luckily there was an extra adult mask and snorkel in the boat, but the snorkel they gave him was broken, so he ended up not even using it.
When arriving to see the boats. The instructor failed to inform everyone where the first ship was located, so we went straight to the second one and when asking about it. We were said to "go look for it. It's somewhere over there" he had a bad attitude the whole trip. The end of the story is that none of the 17 passengers were able to find the ship, and we ended up seeing just one in the first location.
The second location had one ship, but I think everyone was already done with that "experience" and were in and out of the water in about 5-10 min. It was raining and super cold, so it was a bit hard to see anyways.
My advice is: Do not waste your money.
After waiting for pretty much 1 hour, we were given stinky and soaked wet boots, ripped and extremely big suits (my husband is 5'6" and 162 pounds, and was given an XL to wear) after they insisted an XS would fit him (what's the logic here?). They did the same with two friends that were with us (given suits that were nowhere near the right size and insisted it was a perfect fit)
It was clear they did not have enough equipment to everyone, and most of the staff had no training whatsoever.
We both also received kids snorkels and masks (which I noticed and asked to be exchanged, but my husband didn't, so he ended up in the boat with it)
The suit was absolute garbage. All ripped and glued together in the corners, there was a rip in the back so big I could fit my whole hand in it. There were 4 of us, and only one ended up with a decent suit.
After that whole thing, we went to the boat over 40 minutes late. Luckily there was an extra adult mask and snorkel in the boat, but the snorkel they gave him was broken, so he ended up not even using it.
When arriving to see the boats. The instructor failed to inform everyone where the first ship was located, so we went straight to the second one and when asking about it. We were said to "go look for it. It's somewhere over there" he had a bad attitude the whole trip. The end of the story is that none of the 17 passengers were able to find the ship, and we ended up seeing just one in the first location.
The second location had one ship, but I think everyone was already done with that "experience" and were in and out of the water in about 5-10 min. It was raining and super cold, so it was a bit hard to see anyways.
My advice is: Do not waste your money.
Written June 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amol K
2 contributions
Aug 2021 • Solo
I went for the Discover Scuba Dive and had a pretty disappointing experience. I was given a mask that did not fit properly and kept leaking. I told them the same at the very start when we got into the water and they just asked me to adjust it. It just kept leaking and filling up water up my nose. I tried to get accustomed to it, but I had to pump water out of mask every couple of breaths which made it incredibly hard to be underwater. They did not advice how much time we had left remaining, and while I thought we were still practicing and getting used to it - we were asked to get out after I had spent only a few struggling minutes underwater.
I gave them the feedback afterwards, and they said they just have generic masks & I should just buy a better fit next time, and one other instructor said it was because of the little mustache I had. So people with mustaches can't Scuba dive? Are your for real? Why wasn't this mentioned before? Overall, they showed little interest in understanding the problem and I was like meh because it was all done anyway.
They seemed cool in their interactions for sure, but didn't really care about the experience of an individual after they're paid. You might get lucky, I didn't. Will definitely pursue Scuba as a serious hobby, but don't think I'll go here again if I can avoid.
I gave them the feedback afterwards, and they said they just have generic masks & I should just buy a better fit next time, and one other instructor said it was because of the little mustache I had. So people with mustaches can't Scuba dive? Are your for real? Why wasn't this mentioned before? Overall, they showed little interest in understanding the problem and I was like meh because it was all done anyway.
They seemed cool in their interactions for sure, but didn't really care about the experience of an individual after they're paid. You might get lucky, I didn't. Will definitely pursue Scuba as a serious hobby, but don't think I'll go here again if I can avoid.
Written August 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Soni
Mississauga, Canada
Are there any snorkeling tours? How deep is the water? Can kids do that?
George W
Oakville, Canada3 contributions
Divers Den offers snorkelling tours for all ages, and there are other company’s in Tobermory that also offer snorkelling tours. There are shipwrecks that you can snorkel over that are as shallow as 10’. The water visibility is great, however it can be cold. Most of the tours rent wetsuits along with the mask, fins and snorkels.
Sana Shah
Sarnia, Canada4 contributions
Hi,is it important to know how to swim to scuba dive? And do you have to book in advance?
mrsrand
kenora30 contributions
Yes you need to book in advance, and also i don't know why you'd even want to scuba dive if you cannot swim? you could take a certification course at tobermorey to learn to scuba dive, they won't just liet you jump and in do it!
George B
Marathon, Canada2 contributions
I love diving in Tobermory. The water is clear but be aware the water is much colder than you will find in the Caribbean. I have not been snorkeling but have heard many positive comments from those who have. There are a variety of snorkeling sites that Diver's Den will take you to for a fresh water experience. Come and enjoy.
jkrushelnicki
St. Catharines, Canada163 contributions
There are several great snorkelling spots up in tobermory. I highly reccomend using divers den as a way to see these snorkeling sites. send them an email and they should be more than happy to set you up with a fun experience!
explorergal
toronto canada51 contributions
Hi, I am certified but my bf is not. I am also used to hot beautiful weather and seas of the Caribbean. Bf is from the Caribbean. Our friends are doing a dive, thinking of going snorkelling, will will be disappointed? Or is it worth it?
OurWorldAdventures
Collingwood, Canada55 contributions
Agreed with the responses above -- chat with Diver's Den, they'll be able to answer all your questions. Having logged some dives in the Caribbean and Tobermory -- I'd say go for it. IMO here are the highlights:
- Visibility in Tobermory is incredible. We were there a week ago and it was 60ft of amazing blue water. I find the water up there to be unlike I've seen elsewhere.
- The wrecks you'll see in these waters are in amazing condition b/c of the freshwater. Saltwater eats away at wood, fresh water keeps it whole.
- There is a wreck you can see in ~20ft of water, where you could snorkel/dive together (I think)
- Yes, the water is colder, but that just goes with diving up here. Enjoy it for what it is!
MelvilleMaciel
Toronto, Canada1 contribution
Hi there Ted T. I understand thru your review that you have just stayed at the DiversDen cottage. Your review is helpful but if possible can you give me a bit more as we are a party of 6 going up tomorrow Aug 14 for a few days & it would be helpful to know about the place as to what we do need to take with us. How are the Kitchen gadgets, BBQ, etc. & do you have pictures you would like to share.? Kindly reply ASAP. Thanks in advance. MM.
George B
Marathon, Canada2 contributions
My family and I have stayed at the Diver's Den cottage a number of times. It is an older house with character. On every occasion we have found it to be comfortable, clean, good beds with a large kitchen and ample equipment for preparing all of our own meals.
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