So now you're ready to come to Nanaimo and dive our world famous wrecks and explore our award winning underwater bounty. But where are you going to stay and who are you going to dive with?

For the past 11 years, The Buccaneer Inn has hosted many of the thousands of divers coming to dive in our beautiful waters. For more information on current package rates and to book visit Ocean Explorers website now or call 1-800-233-4145 or contact Sundown Diving or call them at 1-888-773-3483. Please note that at The Buccaneer Inn we no longer directly sell dive packages however we will gladly offer you diver-friendly accommodation!

So what makes us the most popular hotel, motel or guesthouse to stay at while diving in Nanaimo? Our diver specific amenities are second to none. We offer 2 heated, indoor, secure dry rooms, outdoor rinse station and an after-checkout shower. Our location is outstanding. We're directly across from both Ocean Explorers and Sundown Diving's boats and the Harbourside Walkway with great ocean views of Newcastle Channel. Across from us are 5 restaurants and pubs including waterfront dining. We have a complimentary BBQ on our group meeting deck. If you'd like to have a get together in one suite, our Deluxe Oceanview Fireplace Suite doubles as a large meeting room! (surcharge applies).

What makes Ocean Explorers and Sundown Diving the right shops to charter with? They are both Nanaimo’s longest running full time dive charter operations. They have each logged tens of thousands dives on their charter boats making them the most experienced, knowledgeable and reliable dive charter operators in Nanaimo. They have fully staffed offices open 7 days a week. Nitrox and Argon are available on site. They can handle groups with ease. They offer all levels of Diver Education programs with various agencies.

Ocean Explorers Diving and Sundow Diving are both founding members of the award-winning Nanaimo Dive Association (NDA) which guarantees that you are diving with professionals. The NDA, and it's members are committed to protecting and enhancing the dive sites we use. The NDA's spear fishing and harvesting policy is strictly enforced to ensure that the marine environment is protected for all to enjoy. Their artificial reef program, wolf eel den enhancements and mooring buoy program are part of a commitment to foster a better marine habitat for the fabulous 'critters' we have. For all members of the NDA, diver safety is of paramount importance. You can rest assured that the staff of Ocean Explorers are some of the industry’s most qualified and experienced. The dive boats they use are Coast Guard Canada marine safety inspected and certified and fully insured. The Buccaneer Inn also follows the same code of business practices and work to ensure that our property, amenities and services meet the same high standards set by The NDA.

Our community’s dedication to becoming the world’s most popular temperate water dive destination is evident throughout Nanaimo. Future plans include Marine Parks, wolf eel den enhancements, park developments which will include shore-side diver-friendly facilities, mooring buoy program and the addition of more artificial reefs. 

We look forward to welcoming you to The Buccaneer Inn and the start of one of the world's great dive adventures!

Your hosts,

Dave, Marlene and Christopher