Three Tree Point, located in Puget Sound, Washington, is a renowned dive site celebrated for its diverse marine life and challenging conditions. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of this popular dive location, addressing common questions and concerns divers might have. Experienced divers appreciate its unique attributes, while newcomers should approach it with caution and proper preparation.
What Makes Three Tree Point Unique?
Three Tree Point's notoriety stems from its dramatic underwater topography. The site features a steep drop-off, strong currents, and abundant marine growth, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem. Visibility can vary greatly depending on tidal conditions and the season, ranging from near-zero to excellent clarity. The three trees that lend their name to the site, although mostly submerged, still provide a distinctive landmark for divers navigating the area.
What Marine Life Can I Expect to See at Three Tree Point?
The diverse ecosystem at Three Tree Point supports a wide array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter:
- Fish: Various species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and sculpins are common sightings. Occasionally, larger fish like halibut or even seals may grace divers with their presence.
- Invertebrates: The site boasts a plethora of invertebrate life, including anemones, sea stars, nudibranchs, and various crustaceans. Careful observation will reveal a surprising variety of smaller creatures.
- Kelp Forests: The underwater landscape is often characterized by healthy kelp forests, providing shelter and food for a multitude of species. These forests also create intriguing navigational challenges for divers.
What is the Best Time of Year to Dive at Three Tree Point?
The best time to dive at Three Tree Point often depends on individual preferences and experience levels. Summer months generally offer calmer conditions and better visibility, although currents can still be significant. Winter diving presents challenges due to colder water temperatures, reduced visibility, and potentially rougher seas. Experienced divers might appreciate the unique challenges of winter diving, while beginners are strongly advised to choose the calmer summer months.
What is the Visibility Like at Three Tree Point?
Visibility at Three Tree Point is highly variable. It can range from extremely poor (near-zero visibility) during periods of strong currents and sediment disturbance to excellent clarity on calm days with favorable tidal conditions. Divers should always check current conditions and recent dive reports before embarking on their dive.
What Kind of Diving Experience is Needed for Three Tree Point?
Three Tree Point is not a site for novice divers. The strong currents, changing visibility, and potentially challenging conditions demand experience and excellent buoyancy control. Divers should possess advanced open water certification or equivalent experience and be comfortable navigating in challenging underwater environments. Buddy diving is absolutely essential.
What Gear Should I Bring for a Three Tree Point Dive?
Proper gear selection is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive at Three Tree Point. This includes:
- Exposure protection: A wetsuit or drysuit is necessary, depending on the season and water temperature.
- Dive computer: Essential for monitoring depth, dive time, and ascent rate.
- Dive lights: Useful for navigating and exploring the underwater landscape, especially in lower visibility conditions.
- Navigation tools: A compass and a dive reel can be helpful for navigating the challenging currents and maintaining orientation.
- Appropriate buoyancy control device (BCD): Crucial for maintaining proper buoyancy in the strong currents.
Remember to always prioritize safety and check your gear thoroughly before each dive.
How Do I Get to the Three Tree Point Dive Site?
Access to the Three Tree Point dive site is typically via boat. Divers often arrange boat charters or utilize their own vessels to reach the site, as shore access is limited and potentially hazardous.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for planning a dive at Three Tree Point. However, it is crucial to remember that conditions can change rapidly. Always consult with experienced local divers, check current weather and sea conditions, and dive within your limits. Safe diving practices are paramount for enjoying this challenging yet rewarding dive site.
