## Is There Scuba Diving in New Orleans?
While New Orleans is not known for its world-class scuba diving opportunities, there are a few spots where you can explore the underwater world.
### Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Pontchartrain is a large, shallow lake located just north of New Orleans. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including flounder, speckled trout, and redfish. There are also a few shipwrecks that can be explored by scuba divers.
**Visibility:** The visibility in Lake Pontchartrain is typically poor, ranging from 5 to 15 feet. This is due to the high levels of sediment in the water.
**Depth:** The average depth of Lake Pontchartrain is only about 12 feet. This makes it a good place for beginner scuba divers to explore.
**Access:** There are a few dive shops located on Lake Pontchartrain that offer guided tours and equipment rentals.
### The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is another option for scuba diving in New Orleans. The river is home to a variety of fish, including catfish, bass, and paddlefish. There are also a few shipwrecks that can be explored by scuba divers.
**Visibility:** The visibility in the Mississippi River is typically poor, ranging from 5 to 10 feet. This is due to the high levels of sediment in the water.
**Depth:** The depth of the Mississippi River varies depending on the location. In some areas, the river is only a few feet deep, while in other areas it can be over 100 feet deep.
**Access:** There are a few dive shops located on the Mississippi River that offer guided tours and equipment rentals.
### The Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico is located about an hour’s drive from New Orleans. The Gulf is home to a variety of fish, including tuna, marlin, and sailfish. There are also a few shipwrecks that can be explored by scuba divers.
**Visibility:** The visibility in the Gulf of Mexico is typically better than in Lake Pontchartrain or the Mississippi River, ranging from 20 to 50 feet.
**Depth:** The depth of the Gulf of Mexico varies depending on the location. In some areas, the Gulf is only a few feet deep, while in other areas it can be over 1000 feet deep.
**Access:** There are a few dive shops located on the Gulf of Mexico that offer guided tours and equipment rentals.
### Tips for Scuba Diving in New Orleans
* Be aware of the poor visibility in most of the dive sites in New Orleans.
* Use a dive light to improve your visibility.
* Be aware of the strong currents in the Mississippi River.
* Stay close to your dive buddy at all times.
* Get certified before you go scuba diving.
### Conclusion
While New Orleans may not be the best place in the world to go scuba diving, there are a few spots where you can explore the underwater world. Just be sure to do your research and be aware of the conditions before you go.
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