What is 'Beneath BC' & 'Beneath Canada'?

Beneath BC was created by Russell Clark, but it's not a project that belongs to anyone. It is a hashtag, an idea, a concept of promotion that others can, and are using to help promote the underwater side of British Columbia and Canada.

Where is this taking place?

British Columbia has an astonishing 27,000 kilometres of coastline. Recreational divers explore the top 130 feet or so, just a teeny fraction of what our oceans offer. Some divers and snorkelers also explore lakes and rivers, an incredible freshwater resource to in British Columbia. 

Why are we doing this?

You think those British Columbian mountains stop at the water level? You think BC wildlife is confined to the forests? You think that cold, dark water couldn't possibly be home to anything interesting? Well then, that's why we're doing it. We want to show people that there is an incredible world, right on their doorsteps - well, under it to be exact. 

How are we doing this?

We are only doing a little. We're hoping everyone else will do the work for us! We want to help create a little bit of a movement within the local recreational diving community. We want others to contribute on social media using the #BeneathBC hashtag. Together we have a strong voice that other, non divers can learn something new from, and maybe be inspired to join us.

How often will you be producing updates?

Whenever we can! A non-specific, but accurate answer. We'll be adding content to our site and social media pages when we can. We're always active in BC and will try our best to produce regular updates. Always keep an eye on our social media pages too!

Who pays for this?

We do. This is a passion project that we hope will keep swimming for a long time. We make our money through Seaproof.tv our professional video production business. But Beneath BC is paid for out of our own pockets. This is our hobby, our lives, and our passion. 

I think you should visit here...

The BC coast is huge. HUGE! There's no way we can know it all. So if you know of a place you think we should dive and document, let us know! Use the contact page and send us some information, we'd love to hear from you!

What's our favourite underwater place?

Sheesh. That's a tough one. The underwater realm offers many different experiences. It's impossible to compare diving with sea lions to watching comedic shrimp jump around, or the salmon run take over the rivers. A place you've never been, or a sight you've never seen is always an exciting adventure. So anywhere would have to be the answer. Anywhere underwater in BC is our favourite place!

I want to scuba dive, what do I do?

Scuba diving is incredibly accessible in BC. There are dive stores all over the Lower Mainland, Interior, and Vancouver Island. All these stores offer training and certification, they can help guide you, and get you underwater in no time at all!

I don't want to dive, what else can i do?

Heh, diving isn't for everyone, nothing is. But, living in BC you have some adventurous options. Snorkeling is enormous fun, cheap, and hugely accessible. Whale watching and marine tours are available all over BC, and if that's too much - how about  a walk along the coastline? Beach combing is fun, educational, and can show you a new side to BC.

How do you video underwater?

We use the same cameras above water, as we do below. But we put them inside waterproof housings; solid cases that keep the water out, but allow us to use all the camera's functions. 

Can I donate to your mission?

Well, that's very kind, but not necessary! We'd much rather any financial donations be given to the Royal Canadian Geographical Society - they do wonderous things, support expeditions and education all over Canada. We do however take donations in the form of coffee and donuts (editing fuel!).

What can I do to help?

Spread the word - that's the big one. BC has an incredible sub aquatic world waiting to be explored. The more people that know about Beneath BC, about diving, snorkeling and all of that stuff, the better!

CAN I be an EXPLOREr?

Of course! Anyone and everyone can be an explorer. No matter what age, what level of financial income, where you live, or even if you're not keen on the ocean. There's plenty to do, to discover, and to learn. Training is required for some things though: scuba diving, freediving, and even snorkeling training is essential for safe exploration of our oceans. We also recommend you talk to people in dive stores, adventure shops, tourist centres, or friends that know certain areas and conditions before heading out on an adventure. ​

What's with the # - hashtag?

Hashtags are used online and on social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Hashtags # are a way of identifying specific subjects. Think of it like indexing, if you see something that you feel represents what lays beneath BC, use the hashtag #BeneathBC in your online post, then others will be able to see it too! If you're outside of BC and want to contribute - #BeneathCanada is the one to use!