Blackwater River Dive

Blackwater River Dive

In just a few hours, you can find dozens of fossilized shark teeth, including the very large teeth of the megalodon, the largest shark to have ever lived. There are plenty of other fossils, too. We’ve found the bones of mammoths, giant sloths, even saber-toothed cats! The shores of rivers like the Cooper, the Ashley and the Edisto are also rich in Civil War and Revolutionary War-era artifacts.

River diving can be very rewarding, but it’s not for the faint of heart. River diving has been likened to jumping into a cold cup of coffee. Because of low visibility, you need a powerful light (and a back-up light) to look for fossils. You also need to be comfortable by yourself in the water, since keeping track of a buddy can be nearly impossible. That’s why we require divers on this charter to have at least their Advanced Open Water certification, or to have a logbook demonstrating solo diving experience.

Additional Licensing Requirement

Before joining this charter, you must obtain a Hobby Diver License from the Maritime Research Division of the University of South Carolina. This license is not expensive, but is required by the state to collect anything from the rivers. Collecting without a license can result in fines of up to $500. Follow this link for information on obtaining a license. (Tip: Allow at least two weeks for the state to process your payment and remit your license.)