Scuba Diving in New Hampshire: A Deep Dive into Duck Island, The Isles of Shoals, and The Lady of The Lake

New Hampshire, with its picturesque landscapes and rich history, might not be the first place that comes to mind for scuba diving adventures. However, it offers some hidden gems that are popular among local divers. Duck Island, The Isles of Shoals, and the underwater site known as The Lady of The Lake are prime spots for those looking to explore beneath the surface. Here's what you need to know about these sites, complete with local insights and travel tips.

Duck Island

• Interesting Facts: Duck Island is renowned for its seal encounters, which provide an unparalleled underwater experience. The island is part of the Isles of Shoals, sitting about 6 miles off the coast. Its underwater landscape is rich with marine life, offering divers a unique opportunity to interact with seals in their natural habitat.

• Things to Know:

  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall is the ideal time for diving here, when water temperatures are more comfortable.
  • Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to the potential for strong currents and deeper water.

The Isles of Shoals

• History: This group of small islands and ledges situated about 6-8 miles off the New Hampshire/Maine coast has a storied past, from being a fishing community in the 1600s to becoming a popular tourist destination. For divers, the Isles offer a glimpse into underwater ecosystems and historical shipwrecks.

• Visitor Information:

  • Access: Boat charters from Portsmouth or Rye Harbor are the primary means to reach these diving spots.
  • Diving Attractions: Expect to see a variety of marine life, including lobsters, crabs, and an array of fish species.

The Lady of The Lake

• Overview: This intriguing dive site is actually a shipwreck in Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake. The Lady of The Lake was a side-wheel passenger steamer that sank in 1895 and now rests in about 30 feet of water.

• Why It's Special:

  • Preservation: The cold freshwater conditions have helped preserve the wreck, making it an exciting site for history buffs and underwater explorers alike.
  • Accessibility: Being in relatively shallow water, it's accessible to divers of all skill levels.

Travel Tips

• Getting There: From central New Hampshire, driving to the coastal towns for a charter boat or to Lake Winnipesaukee for The Lady of The Lake takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. Direct routes from Manchester or Concord offer scenic drives that are part of the adventure.

• Local Knowledge: Always check weather conditions and consult with local dive shops for the latest information on dive sites, especially for The Isles of Shoals and Duck Island, where conditions can change.

• Conservation: Respect marine life and historical sites. Remember to look, not touch, and take only memories (and photos) with you.

This guide offers just a glimpse into the underwater adventures that await in New Hampshire. Whether you're drawn by the allure of seal encounters, the mystery of historic shipwrecks, or the beauty of marine ecosystems, these dive sites offer something for every diver to explore.