Bamberton, Saanich Inlet

[diverkim]

I read an academic report that stated Bamberton in Saanich Inlet has the highest concentration and number of species.
I tried to get access to the shore (I know it is not the provincial site), but was unsuccessful.
Does anyone know about diving at Bamberton and access to the shore?

 

[MarkH]

I read a similar report (maybe the same one). It said Bamberton had the highest diversity and concentration of seaweed, etc in the shallow zone of Saanich Inlet. Of course since it's Saanich Inlet, that doesn't mean much. I've tried driving down there a couple of years ago. It's all part of the construction site for that development. They don't like visitors without permission. The developer is Three-Point Properties (they have a website). There's an office in a house near the end of the road. You might want to try stopping by and asking permission. They're also doing guided tours of the site (I think there';s a schedule on their site). I think Hyperlimits has done that area from a boat (much deeper than that study covered).

 

[diverkim]

"The Bamberton site had the highest species diversity (76 spp.) among those sites assessed in Saanich Inlet. ..."
Saanich Inlet Study
I came to the gate, but there was no one to talk to when I was there. But I sure am curious.

 

[Hyper-limits]

I think Hyperlimits has done that area from a boat (much deeper than that study covered).

Last year I did a boat dive from North of McCurdy to Bamberton, we spend about 50-60 minutes between 100 to 160ft exploring Cloud Sponges follow by an hour of deco, probably spend about 30 minutes between 40 and the surface. From what I can remember the sea life there was very good for the Inlet. Too bad there is no shore access (that I know of). Sorry I don't have any pictures I will take my favorite cameraman with me next time

Cheers

Al

 

[DryGear]

There is the Provincial Campground at Bamberton which has shore access, I don't know if anyone would try and stop you from diving there? I've always wanted to try it out. Bamberton Provincial Park - BC Parks

 

[diverkim]

The provincial park beach access is extremely shallow for a long way out. And getting from the parking lot to the beach is a bit of a walk with equipment.
Unfortunately.