Kanata Diving Supply

Set in the west end of Ottawa, Kanata Diving Supply is a PADI 5 Star IDC (Instructor Development Center) — and, by its own account, the largest and longest-serving diving facility in the capital region. The shop joined PADI on April 26, 1989 and earned its 5 Star IDC status on March 7, 1996.

Courses and what to expect

With a roster of 33 PADI Instructors, the centre runs PADI Scuba Diving courses alongside PADI Mermaid and PADI First Aid (EFR) training. An onsite classroom, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi keep the learning side comfortable, while air fills, nitrox, equipment sales and both adult and kids' scuba rentals cover everything you need in the water.

Closer to home, divers head out to Lock 28, where the freshwater setting turns up freshwater fish, eels and echinoderms among other life. With a retail shop, parking, a dive club and a travel desk, Kanata Diving Supply suits new divers, families and anyone in the Ottawa area looking for a full-service base. Instruction is offered in English.