Brownstone Quarry is a shore accessible fresh water dive site, located at 161 Brownstone Avenue, Portland, CT 06480. This dive site has an average rating of 3.56 out of 5 from 9 scuba divers. The average visibility is 16-20ft/5-6m. Training platforms are available.
Scuba Diving at the Quarry
Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park contains two freshwater quarries. Currently the north quarry is open to scuba diving activities on a regular basis. The south quarry will be available in the future for more technical and specialized training opportunities as the park grows.
The north quarry is a 27 acre brownstone quarry with beautiful views of 80 to 100-foot brownstone cliffs. Water depths range to 85 feet. An easy walk-in entry is available.
Visibility
Visibility varies depending on the portion of the quarry is being dived. Reports frequently range from 10 to 30 feet. This depends on many factors and can never be guaranteed. Many areas of the bottom contain silt and can stir up easily if one gets too close.
Water Temperatures
Water temperatures vary depending on the time of year. Surface temperatures are in the mid-70s in the late summer and low to mid-30s in the winter. Bottom temperatures in the deepest areas of the quarry drop to the low-40s year round. Temperatures above 30 feet are usually comfortable for divers in 7mm wetsuits, but many divers dive dry year round.
Wild Life
Fish frequently seen include Large Mouth Bass, Carp, Bluegills, Perch and an occasional American Eel.
Underwater attractions
Training platforms are installed at various depths. A navigation course has been constructed with surface and underwater markers for practicing compass skills. A number of abandoned vehicles and other items can be found. Several of the abandoned motor vehicles will be removed and other attractions will be submerged for your diving pleasure. We will announce additions as they are added.