![]() A Review I had already enjoyed Paul’s first children’s book, “Harry Hawksbill helps his friends”, and now I have the opportunity to read Paul’s second book, “Gracie Green Turtle finds her beach” with my little granddaughter. Paul’s colourful underwater photography illustrates the story for the reader, and while you read about poor Gracie’s plight looking for a beach so she can lay her eggs, you learn a little bit about sea turtles and the challenges they are facing as they share this planet with us humans. It is a wonderful and playful way for a little one to learn about ocean conservation and the impact we humans have on marine life and the health of the marine eco system. My granddaughter was mesmerized by the photos of the sea turtles, and peppered me with question after question about them! Thank you for another sweet tale to share with the kids, Paul; the more we learn, the more we love, the more we can help, because: “People protect what they love…” Jacques Cousteau ![]() You can find Paul’s children’s books here (along with some of his scuba-thriller novels): https://www.milabooks.com/ Paul’s local paper recently interviewed him about his diving, underwater photography, and books: https://thewestburytimes.com/2020/01/deep-dive-into-the-writing-life/ Happy Reading! by Jill Smith
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Author: Taylor AbreuMany people don't understand just how big the Bahamas is. When comparing it to countries like Canada and the United States on the map, is does indeed appear to be quite small...however, Bahamas is made up of 700 islands & islets (small islands), and approximately 2000 cays spread over 100,000 square feet of ocean. The country experienced a huge and unimaginable devastation when Hurricane Dorian hit. Lives were lost, hundreds of people are still missing, homes were destroyed and two of their largest islands were flooded. As a Category 5 Hurricane, Dorian was the strongest on record to ever hit the Bahamas.
Dorian wiped out everything and left the island's residents with nothing. Some families were separated, and some families still are. They wake up every day to the realization that this still isn’t a bad dream. They’re thankful every day for all that is being done to help, but we as surrounding communities need to understand the importance of continuing to travel to Bahamas right now. As mentioned above, several people don’t realize the true size of the Bahamas, or just how many islands make up the whole country. Two of the 700 islands were majorly affected by Hurricane Dorian in September... TWO! Nassau, for example, remains a beautiful destination to enjoy a week-long vacation by the pool, by the beach, or even underwater - diving! There is no better way to support the country in this crucial time of need, than to go there. If everyone puts their travels to the Bahamas on pause, their economy will continue to sink. The reason I’m writing this is because it saddens me every time someone mentions avoiding Bahamas in their upcoming travels. “Why would you go there?” “Is it even safe yet?” “But everything is destroyed!” The Bahamas is one of the most incredibly beautiful Caribbean countries I’ve ever had the fortune of visiting… and it still is exactly that. The water is this beautiful, crystal-clear turquoise blue. The sand is soft and warm from the sun. The sunsets and sunrises vary from deep reds and oranges, to bright pinks and purples. The underwater world is full of life, from sharks to schools of squid. It’s an absolutely breathtaking country, and it needs your help.
What better way to support a country, than to book a vacation down south? We love visiting Tobermory, Ontario! It is one of our favourite places to scuba dive, due to the incredibly clear water; visibility is fantastic! But there is even more to Tobermory than just scuba diving. Top 9 things to do in Tobermory Ontario ![]() 1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Naturally, this is a favourite, and one of the activities Tobermory is most famous for. Fathom Five is Canada's First National Marine Park, boasting clear, clean water, submerged geological formations (cliffs, caves, overhangs), and over 20 historic shipwrecks for scuba divers and snorkelers to explore. Adventure Sports Newmarket Inc. and our dive club, “Tank Jockeys” meet-to-dive in Tobermory several times throughout the spring/summer season - no need to explore this beautiful area on your own; join us for the laughter and love of scuba here! Practice your underwater photography in the clear waters around the shipwrecks, and join us for some debriefing and fun afterwards! Adventure Sports Newmarket Inc. and our dive club, “Tank Jockeys” meet for diving together in Tobermory several times throughout the spring/summer season - no need to explore this beauty on your own, join us for the laughter and love of scuba here! Practice Underwater photography in the clear waters around the shipwrecks. Afterwards, you will often find the Adventure Sports Newmarket gang enjoying some BBQ, or strolling the town of Tobermory with ice-cream in hand! Mmmmmmm!!! ![]() Jody and I love to incorporate a mini-family vacation on our dive excursions up to beautiful Tobermory. A very kid-friendly town, complete with Sweet shop heaven, makes our son a very happy boy, and it's popular with dogs too - we often call it dog-town! Pooches are often welcome on patios and even served fresh water! They WUFF it! Divers must register and purchase diving permits for the Fathom Five Marine Park. An annual tag will run roughly $20, and allows you to dive the park all year long. A daily wristband is about $5. The Parks Canada Visitor Centre is in town, and should be one of your first stops in preparation for your awesome shipwreck adventure! You're going to love it! ![]() - All divers must be trained and certified - Waters here are very cold and diver’s should take necessary precautions -Divers must register with the Fathom Five National Marine Park. How to get to the Visitor's Centre - and buy your scuba diving pass - they do check: Travelling north on Highway 6 into Tobermory
Fathom Five National Marine Park P.O. Box 189 Tobermory, Ontario Canada N0H 2R0 Phone: 519-596-2233 Fax: 519-596-2298 Email: bruce-fathomfive @pc.gc.ca ![]() 2. Take a Hike! No really, take a hike; The 894 km Bruce Trail starts in Tobermory and this region is reputed to have the most gorgeous views of the entire trail. Hiking from Halfway Log Dump to Cave Point on the Bruce Trail is challenging, but the Niagara Escarpment will reward you with some of the most breath-taking views Ontario has to offer! How to Get There: Halfway Log Dump trailhead can be accessed by taking Hwy 6 about 3K south of Cyprus Lake Campground to Emmett Lake Rd (dirt road, 8K long). Follow the blue trail blazes from the parking lot until just before the boulder beach where you will turn left onto the Bruce Trail. ![]() Bicycles, motorized vehicles, and horses are not allowed except along road sections of the Trail and in those few areas where explicit permission is posted. This applies to both the main Trail (marked with white blazes) and Side Trails (blue blazes). There are three compelling reasons for this: 1) Respecting landowner wishes More than half the Bruce Trail is on private land with the permission of the landowner. This permission is for pedestrian use only. Any other use could cause the landowner to require removal of the Trail from his or her land. 2) Safety The Trail has many bends, twists and steep hills. Sharing it with bicycles, vehicles or horses can be dangerous. Our priority is the safety of hikers so that they don't have to worry about what is coming around the next bend. 3) Ecological protection Bicycles, vehicles, and horses can damage the Trail which has been created and maintained for pedestrian use. These uses can also have negative ecological effects on the soil, plants and animals along the Trail. ![]() 3. Visit the Grotto The grotto is a beautiful Georgian Bay Cave where you can really appreciate the majesty of nature and its power. It's hard to "Fathom"! Squeeze around the rocks and climb over boulders to be rewarded with stunningly clear turquoise water in the caves; what an amazing feeling! Make sure you bring your camera for this; photo enthusiasts will have the time of their lives here, and return home with amazing photos to share! ![]() 4. ICE CREAM!!! Peninsula Supply ice cream has an amazing selection of soft and hard ice cream along with fudges, chocolate, and a variety of sweet treats! We kind of feel we deserve it after diving. Every. Day. Mmmmm! Check it out! ![]() 5. Singing Sands Beach Singing Sands is a beautiful beach on the Bruce Peninsula. There is a large sandy beach area, and the water is shallow with a sandy bottom for yards and yards! Great for families with small children - or not! This water will be a little bit (a heck of a lot) warmer than Georgian Bay where we dive. Good fun! Singing Sands facts:
How to get there: 1. From Tobermory, turn south-east onto Highway 6. 2. Turn right onto Dorcas Bay Road. 3. Turn right onto the Singing Sands driveway. ![]() 6. Visit the Flowerpots Flowerpot Island is named after its shoreline rock pillars, narrow at the bottom, and wide at the top. You can view these million year old flowerpots on an enjoyable Flowerpot Island boat tour from Tobermory provided by Blue Heron cruises and Bruce Anchor cruises. This is a conservation area, and you should note that you may NOT leave any garbage here. Bathrooms are "modern" outhouses with wood shavings for "flushing", lol! There are various boats departing all day long with additonal shuttles that take you directly onto the 6.5-km-long island to explore. Features on the island include well marked trails, assessable shorelines, campsites (must be booked ahead of time), outhouses, and picnic shelter areas. The island is also well know for being part of the Fathom Five National Marine Park that highlights sunken ships during a glass bottom boat cruise. ![]() Flowerpot Island features some of the best places for swimming in the Fathom Five National Marine Park; the water is crystal clear, and extremely "refreshing" (brrrrr)! We had a wonderful afternoon walking the trails here, stopping for a swim, and enjoying the glass bottom boat ride to and from the island. Lovely day! ![]() 7. Little Cove Adventures 7111 Highway 6 Tobermory, ON, N0H 2R0 Add a challenging activity to your visit to Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula! You can enjoy climbing on either the High or Low Ropes Course, both providing thrill and excitement on various challenges. You will be facing different obstacles traversing between trees or poles. The Ropes Courses require balance, planning, problem solving, and communication. You can improve these essential skills while having fun with your friends and families. The programs are open for public and start three times a day. Reservation is recommended. ![]() Equipment and Safety There is no experience needed. Our highly trained guides provide orientation, support and safety for all participants. We supply all of the necessary equipment including helmets and harnesses. Closed-toe and closed-heel shoes are mandatory (available for rent). You can bring gloves for your own comfort. All participants must complete a Waiver and a Healty & Safety Form. We are definitely looking forward to spending a morning on the ropes this summer! ![]() 8. Eat the White fish! The white fish in Tobermory is reputed to be amazingly delicious; a must try! Mmmmmm, melts in your mouth! White fish Reviews: 1. Shipwreck Lee's - Route 6, Tobermory, Ontario N0H 2R0 Review Trip advisor: "Typical Great Lakes whitefish and fries, very good. Always a stop when we visit the harbor at Tobermory." 2. Crow's Nest Pub - 5 Bay St, Tobermory, Ontario N0H 2R0 Review Trip advisor: "I am not a big fish eater, in fact I eat it grudgingly only a couple of times through the year. But this bustling little pub had the most awesome whitefish that I have ever had. And the best fries in the world - they are to die for. Who knew such a simple meal as fish and chips could taste so good! My kids also said that they had the best chicken fingers that they had ever tasted. Worth a trip back to this wonderful little port!" 3. The Fish and Chip Place - 24 Bay Street S. Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0 Review Virtual Tourist: "We chose this restaurant for its great location overlooking the Tobermory Harbour and for its inexpensive menu of fish and chips. They serve fresh local whitefish in a basket with chips or wrapped in a tortilla as a fish taco. Both of these options were delicious. You can even takeaway your dinner and sit across the street at the public picnic tables with an even better view of the harbour." 4. Grandview Inn Dining Room - 15 Earl St, Tobermory, Ontario N0H 2R0 Review Trip Advisor: "Based on reviews we decided to try this restaurant and were pleasantly surprised with the different options for preparing the whitefish dinners. I had the blackened and it was just right with the cajun spices coming thru nicely. My wife had prepared Mediterranean style and she really liked it. We were there before the actual summer season, so there were only 5 other tables occupied and only one server, but he kept everything moving and was attentive to all of us. Althoug more pricey than some of the other locales in town, definitely worth a try." 9. Bring your canine fur-baby! Yes, your pup is welcome in dog-town (Tobermory), provided you keep your furry friend leashed, and clean up after him/her. Be courteous to others so that Toby will always welcome our beloved dogs! We have listed accommodations below with an * , if they allow your pet. ![]() Accommodations We have booked at Bruce's Anchor Motel, and at Wireless Bay Cottages many times. Our puppy has enjoyed the hospitality at Wireless Bay a great deal. No matter where you choose to stay, you are bound to find the owners and staff to be very helpful and friendly. Here is a list of commonly used accommodations when we visit Tobermory (* pet friendly): Rooms and Cottages Bruce's Anchor Motel Princess Motel The Blue Heron Company Wireless Bay Cottages* Harbourside Motel This Earth Day let’s make it about our favorite 70 percent- the ocean. As scuba divers, we are the fortunate few that get to experience its beauty. Beneath the waves we are exposed to a whole other world, one most of us share a common love for... It's beautiful, but it needs to be protected. The colourful coral cannot defend itself from damaging chemicals. The sharks cannot defend themselves from their human predators. Whales cannot defend themselves from the plastic they are mistakenly consuming. The ocean cannot protect itself from us. We are too technically advanced- too comfortable with our current practices. The inconvenience that comes with wanting to eliminate the ocean’s threats scares people. To many, it seems unachievable and unrealistic... But when you find worth in something, anything is achievable. Our love for this magical place covering a vast majority of our Earth can go as far as we wish.
The day I arrived back from my first scuba diving excursion, was the day my family agreed to stop using plastic bags. After discovering that sea turtles often mistaken these bags for their favorite treat, jellyfish, I was devastated. That was the start to my journey of protecting the ocean, and all it took was exposure and understanding. The exposure created a bond... The ocean became my safe place, and I wanted to return the favor. My generation of divers will see it. Over time, we'll notice the differences. We'll remember the ocean how it was, and live through what it will become. We'll remember the creatures we've seen, that will no longer be with us. We'll remember the colors of the coral, that will bleach overtime. We'll remember taking a giant stride through the blue waves, that will fill with beds of floating plastic. We will remember it, we will see it, and we will live through it- if it doesn't change. Every article I've read and every petition I've signed, will make a difference. Every plastic bag I've refused and every straw I've avoided, will make a difference. Every photo or video I've posted of the beauties of our deep blue sea, will make a difference. My voice and yours, will make a difference. No single person can doing everything there is to protect the ocean, but all together, each of us can do what we can until the ocean’s threats are eliminated. I personally believe, that one of the simplest actions you can take as a scuba diver to protect our ocean is sharing your voice and ideas. The ocean’s biggest threat is the belief that someone else will save it. Spreading your voice, opinions, and ideas is the best way to spread awareness and suggestions to those that are not yet on board with the movement of protecting our water. - EARTH DAY ANNOUCEMENT - Finally... Adventure Sports is happy to announce that this summer we will be putting together an Eco-Dive Club! Our hope is to create a group of divers with a strong passion to save the ocean, who will have opportunities to arrange different fundraisers and events, geared towards supporting Project Aware's efforts to protect underwater environments and species. Monthly meetings will consist of brainstorming creative ideas and putting together interactive activities for other divers to participate in. Our job will be to engage as many people as possible in the steps towards a healthy, happy ocean... The sky is the limit! As we continue to expand, with a new location in the near future, we wish to also expand our impact. We are a dive shop that values all that's living within all waterways. We pledge to protect our ocean by doing what we can moving forward, starting with this. We need your creativity, your ideas, your passion and most importantly your love for the water. If "Ocean Activist" screams your name, this club will offer you the chance to expand just how much you can do! Contact the shop for more information on getting onboard. |
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