Club dives at Nanaimo Dive Outfitters
Club dives are one of the best ways to build experience, meet other local divers, and feel at home in Nanaimo’s dive community. These are relaxed, divemaster-led shore dives that run every second Saturday and are open to all certified divers.
If you are new to cold water diving, new to the area, or just looking for people to dive with, our club dives are a great place to start.
What are club dives?
Club dives are guided local dives led by a Nanaimo Dive Outfitters divemaster. The focus is on safe, enjoyable diving, learning our local sites, and giving divers the chance to gain confidence in real ocean conditions.
Typical dive sites include:
Locations are chosen based on conditions and the experience level of the group. Dive announcements, meeting times, and site details are posted on our Facebook page, so be sure to follow us to stay in the loop.
Who can join an NDO club dive?
All certified divers are welcome. You do not need to be a Nanaimo Dive Outfitters student or alumni to participate.
These dives are especially popular with:
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- Newer divers looking to gain experience outside of training
- Divers who are new to Nanaimo or Vancouver Island
- Warm-water divers learning cold-water skills
- Experienced divers who enjoy relaxed, social local dives
How the dives are run
Each club dive is divemaster led and structured to match the group that shows up that day.
Divers are buddied up with someone of similar or compatible experience whenever possible. If the group includes a wide mix of experience levels, dives may split into smaller groups so everyone gets a comfortable and enjoyable dive.
Dive profiles, depth, pace, and objectives are adjusted to suit both newer and more experienced divers. There is no pressure to push limits. The goal is good dives, good habits, and a good time.
Gear and rentals
Rental gear is available through Nanaimo Dive Outfitters, including drysuits and full scuba packages. Club dives can be busy, especially during peak seasons, so we strongly recommend booking rental gear early to avoid missing out.
If you are still dialing in your cold-water setup, club dives are a great way to try gear, ask questions, and learn from both staff and fellow divers.
More than just a dive
The community at Nanaimo Dive Outfitters is a big part of what makes this shop special. Club dives are not just about getting in the water. They are about meeting people, sharing experiences, and building confidence together.
Many long-term dive buddies and friendships have started on our club dives.
Whether you are fresh out of your Open Water course or have logged hundreds of dives elsewhere, you will find a welcoming, supportive group that is happy to have you.
Join us on the next one
Club dives run every second Saturday. Follow our Facebook page for upcoming dive announcements, locations, and details.
If you have questions about gear, experience level, or whether a club dive is right for you, stop by the shop or get in touch. We are always happy to help you get involved and get underwater.
Start Your Adventure
Would you like to reserve rental gear for the next club dive? Reach out today!
