Reels and SMBs

Reels and surface marker buoys are not optional accessories in cold-water diving, they are core safety tools. Around Nanaimo and Central Vancouver Island, currents, boat traffic, depth, and wreck environments all make SMBs and reels essential pieces of equipment for many dives.

At Nanaimo Dive Outfitters, we stock a wide range of reels, spools, and SMBs suited for recreational, wreck, and technical diving.

Why SMBs matter

An SMB makes you visible to surface traffic and dive boats, especially during ascents and safety stops away from shore or anchor lines. In many cases, local and charter boats require each diver to carry their own SMB.

SMBs are used to:

• • Signal your position to boats during ascent and at the surface
  • Mark decompression or safety stops when drifting or away from a fixed line
  • Improve safety in areas with current or limited visibility
  • Help boat crews track divers during pickup

We carry:

• • Closed-bottom and open-bottom SMBs
  • SMBs designed for deployment from depth
  • High-visibility colors for cold-water conditions

Our team can help you choose the right style based on how and where you dive.

Reels and spools for control and safety

Reels and finger spools are used to deploy SMBs, maintain reference during ascents, and manage lines in overhead environments. They are especially important for wreck diving, where controlled line use is critical.

Reels are used for:

• • SMB deployment from depth
  • Maintaining position during decompression or safety stops
  • Safe navigation inside wrecks
  • Establishing a continuous guideline for penetration dives

We stock:

• • Compact finger spools for recreational and SMB use
  • Medium reels for general wreck and training dives
  • Large-capacity reels for advanced wreck or technical diving

Wreck diving and line discipline

Local wrecks such as the HMCS Saskatchewan, HMCS Cape Breton, and Rivtow Lion are incredible dives, but they demand proper training and equipment. Penetration without a reel and proper technique is unsafe and strongly discouraged.

Reels are a required safety item for wreck penetration, allowing you to:

• • Maintain a continuous path to open water
  • Avoid disorientation in low visibility
  • Exit safely in the event of silt-out or equipment failure

If you’re interested in learning proper reel use, line handling, and wreck safety procedures, we offer wreck diving training that covers these skills in detail.

Required gear for many charters and courses

Many local dive charters and advanced courses require:

• • A personal SMB
  • A reel or finger spool appropriate for the dive
  • Knowledge of safe deployment techniques

We can help you select gear that meets charter requirements and is appropriate for your training level.

Choosing the right setup

Not every diver needs the same reel or SMB. The right choice depends on:

• • Depth and current
  • Shore vs boat diving
  • Wreck penetration vs exterior exploration
  • Recreational vs technical diving

Our staff dive these waters year-round and can recommend equipment that fits your experience level and future goals.

Whether you’re preparing for your first boat dives, planning wreck training, or building a technical setup, Nanaimo Dive Outfitters has the reels, SMBs, and experience to help you dive safely and confidently.