Blue Heron Adventures Dive & Snorkel Centre Holds Grand Opening 

166
Photo L-R: Jack Salen, Ashley Salen, Griffin Salen, Szilvia Jones Mervyn, and Rick Salen cutting the ribbon at the Grand Opening of Blue Heron Adventures on May 31st.
Submitted by Szilvia Jones Mervyn, General Manager 

The grand opening of Blue Heron Adventures Dive and Snorkel Centre took place on May 31st, right here in the heart of breathtaking Tobermory, Ontario—beloved shipwreck diving capital of Canada 

The event marked an exciting chapter, not only for Blue Heron, but for the entire diving and outdoor adventure community across Ontario and beyond. Tobermory is a place like no other—where crystal-clear waters meet history, adventure, and a deep respect for our natural surroundings. It’s a destination that stirs the imagination and draws people from all corners of the world to experience the magic that lies just off shore and beneath the surface. 

Blue Heron is proud to officially welcome this dive and snorkel centre as part of the Blue Heron family of companies—an organization rooted in a passion for nature, exploration, and providing unforgettable experiences to all who seek adventure. With this new centre, we’re expanding not just a brand, but a community—one built on safety, stewardship, and a shared love of the Great Lakes and all things Northern Bruce Peninsula.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver searching for historic shipwrecks, a first-time snorkeler exploring the shallows, or a curious visitor eager to learn more about the underwater world, Blue Heron Adventures is here to guide your journey with expertise, warmth, and enthusiasm. Our team is made up of professionals who don’t just work in the water—they live for it. They bring decades of experience, local knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

From guided tours and certified dive instruction, to gear rentals and marine education, this centre will be a hub for discovery and connection. We would like to thank everyone who made this dream possible—the town of Tobermory, our incredible staff and partners, and of course, our guests and adventurers, past, present, and future. You are the reason we’re here today, and you are the heart of this growing Blue Heron family. 

This opening was not just a celebration to launch a new business but the beginning of countless new memories, friendships, and underwater adventures. Together, we’ll explore the past beneath the waves—and build a vibrant future above them. 

The opening event included talks by Kayla Martin of 3DShipwrecks.org and followed by words from Michael Marcotte, previous Owner of Divers Den, and PADI Staff Instructor who has been diving in Tobermory for 26 years. The keynote speaker was Jill Heinerth — a world-renowned cave diver, filmmaker, author, and explorer-in-residence for the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. Heinerth talked about her life as an explorer and how Tobermory holds a special place in her heart as it is where her career in SCUBA diving began!

The event was followed by a special screening of Diving into the Darkness, at the National Park Visitor Centre, a film written about Jill Heinerth’s life and based on her book Into the Planet. The film goes live on streaming services June 6th!