Explore Fathom Five National Marine Park, Canada's first National Marine Conservation Area, located in Ontario. Discover its crystal-clear waters, historic shipwrecks, and unique Flowerpot Island. Perfect for diving enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers.
Fathom Five National Marine Park, situated at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula and surrounded by the waters of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, is Canada's first National Marine Conservation Area. Established in 1987, it's renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse ecosystems, and rich marine heritage.
Getting There: The park is about 300 kilometers from Toronto, Ontario, and is accessible via Highway 6. For those coming from the north, the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry operates during the spring, summer, and fall, offering a scenic route to the park.
Activities and Attractions:
Diving: The park is famous for its diving sites, with over 20 shipwrecks and several geological formations like sea caves and cliffs. The clear waters make these sites visible even from the surface. All divers must obtain a dive tag from the Visitor Centre.
Boat Tours: Boat tours from Little Tub Harbour in Tobermory take visitors over shipwrecks and to Flowerpot Island, a key attraction of the park.
Hiking and Paddling Tours: Guided hiking along the Bruce Trail and paddling tours provide a great way to experience the park and learn about its unique biosphere.
Camping: Flowerpot Island offers camping opportunities with six campsites near Beachy Cove. It's advisable to book in advance due to the popularity and limited availability.
Key Features:
Flowerpot Island: Known for its namesake rock formations, Flowerpot Island also features marked trails and rough camping facilities. It's only accessible by boat.
Rare Flora and Fauna: The park is home to rare orchids and ferns, ancient cedar trees, and various animal species, making it a haven for naturalists.
Lighthouses and Shipwrecks: The park protects several historic lighthouses and shipwrecks, which are popular attractions for visitors and divers.
Facilities and Services: Fathom Five offers accessible parking, toilets, a gift shop, and picnic areas. The park's Visitor Centre in Tobermory provides important information, brochures, and maps for visitors.
Seasonal Considerations: The best time to visit the park is during the summer and fall when the weather is conducive for outdoor activities. However, due to its popularity, especially during peak season, planning ahead is recommended.
For more detailed information and for making reservations, you can visit the official Parks Canada website for Fathom Five National Marine Park.
