Cold-water reefs, wrecks and coastal mountains on the Sea to Sky corridor.
Overview
Porteau Cove gives certified divers a rare combination of designated shore entries, marked artificial reefs and sunken vessels beside Howe Sound. The park manages depths of roughly 6 m to 18 m, but chilly water, silty visibility, tide changes and strong inlet winds make local skill and equipment essential. Commercial guiding inside the park requires a park-use permit, and diving from boats inside the park is prohibited. Separately, operators advertise experienced-diver day-boat outings in Howe Sound, including the HMCS Annapolis area, rather than overnight liveaboards. Vancouver, Lions Bay and Squamish are sensible road-access bases; non-divers can use the same trip for waterfront views, waterfalls, the Squamish Estuary, museum visits and mountain trails. Book actual services and check park notices, tides, marine forecasts and Highway 99 conditions before leaving. See BC Parks and operator charter requirements.
Porteau Cove has publicly documented dive steps, a buoy-marked area, artificial reefs and two sunken vessels. Shore entry only inside the park. BC Parks.
Quick shortlist before you jump into the full planning page.
Top species linked to approved dive spots in Vancouver and Howe Sound.
Horseshoe Bay charter listings reach experienced-diver Howe Sound locations, including the Annapolis area, without crossing to the Sunshine Coast. Operator listing.
Artificial structures and rocky habitat support fish and invertebrates; octopus, nudibranchs and seals are possibilities, not promises. BC Parks.
Porteau Cove picnics and views combine with Squamish trails, a museum, an estuary and a gondola. Shannon Falls; estuary WMA.
3 linked spots
