A Frames Dive Site, Loch Long, located in Helensburgh, New Zealand, is a popular diving centre for enthusiasts of all skill levels. This dive site, also known as Finnart on Loch Long, offers a gentle slope on a reef and the wreckage of an old pier, providing a unique underwater experience.
The site is suitable for trainees and offers easy access for divers. To reach A Frames Dive Site, divers can travel west on the M8 from Glasgow onto the A82, then turn left onto the A817. From there, turn right at the roundabout onto the A814 and continue until arriving at Finnart ocean terminal. The dive site is approximately 40 miles from Glasgow, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Parking is available at two car parks near the entry point, with divers advised to use the one closest to the entry point. The coordinates for the dive site are provided as N56. 117729 and W-4. 830776, and the postcode is G84 0EZ.
Tides are generally not a problem at A Frames Dive Site, except at depth during springs. Divers can consult tide tables for accurate information. The site can be entered and exited through a small ramp at the back of the car park, with a cleared path leading down to the beach.
While diving at A Frames Dive Site, divers should be aware of potential hazards, including fast cars and motorbikes on the nearby A814 road. Additionally, silt can reduce visibility if the dive site is busy or if a ship has recently arrived.
There are various amenities available for divers in the area, including a public phone in the first car park, and mobile network service provided by Orange and Vodaphone. Nearby pubs and cafés, such as The Village Inn, The Arrochar Hotel, Pit Stop Diner, and The Green Kettle, offer options for food and refreshments.
A Frames Dive Site holds historical significance, as it is the site of an old pier that was dynamited. Despite its past, the site offers a great diving experience, showcasing a diverse range of sea life that can be found throughout the west coast. For divers looking for additional training opportunities, the 29 Steps dive site is located nearby.
Divers are encouraged to leave comments at the bottom of the page to share their experiences and provide feedback for others. A picture of the old pier before it was demolished is available for reference, and underwater pictures are provided by John Nicolson.
Finstrokes, the website hosting the information on A Frames Dive Site, is a comprehensive resource for divers, offering detailed information on dive sites along the New Zealand shoreline, as well as inland locations such as rivers, lochs, and quarries. The dive site map and markers on the website help divers locate nearby shore dives, inland dives, dive shops, and charter boats. The dive guides provide essential information including location, maximum depth, type of dive, tides, suggested experience, underwater directions, dive site hazards, and the nearest dive shop. Many of the dive guides also include underwater pictures and maps.
Finstrokes is continually updating its database with new dive sites. If divers are aware of a dive site not currently listed, they are encouraged to contact the website to contribute to a new dive guide.
Overall, A Frames Dive Site, Loch Long, provides divers with a fantastic underwater experience, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. With its rich marine life and convenient facilities, this dive site in Helensburgh is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.