About Hornby Island Diving

History

Hornby Island Diving is a family run business that has been in operation for over thirty years. It was started by Robert (Bob) Zielinski, a dedicated and experienced diver who extensively explored the British Columbia coast with his wife Ann, before settling on Hornby in 1972.

Although equipment and amenities weren't as comfortable as they are today, diving was growing in popularity in BC, and people were looking for a place to dive and to "get away from it all" for a few days. Hornby Island Diving is one of the original SCUBA charter operations on this coast. Bob has since retired (again), and the business is now operated by his son, Rob.

Over the years Hornby Island Diving has provided guiding and expertise to various projects such as television documentaries, books, magazines and research.

The Zielinski family has long been concerned with marine conservation, and their efforts contributed to the designation of the marine component of Helliwell Provincial Park. This area is closed to the taking of marine life by divers, and is currently under consideration for further protection, due to its significant populations of bottom fish and invertebrates.

Owners

Rob and Amanda Zielinski are the owners and operators of Hornby Island Diving. We are full-time residents of Hornby Island, and we are avid divers. We look forward to introducing you to 'our back yard'.

Rob Zielinski

Rob has lived on Hornby all his life. He began diving with his father as a small child, and he grew up assisting with dive charters. He has operated Hornby Island Diving since 1994.

As a lifelong resident of Hornby, he has strong ties with the community and environment, and an extensive knowledge of both.

Rob is a PADI Divemaster.

Amanda Zielinski

Amanda been a resident of Hornby since 1997, before which she was a resident of 'The Big Island' (Vancouver Island).

She grew up surrounded by the unique Gulf Islands ecosystem and has always been interested in terrestrial and intertidal biology. This expanded to include a fascination with the underwater world when she started diving in 1996.

Amanda is a PADI Open Water SCUBA instructor.

Our Philosophy

Hornby Island sustains our lives and our livelihood. We strive to keep the island and its surrounding waters a healthy place.

We do not allow collecting of marine life.

We actively support increased protection for the marine environment of Hornby and beyond.

We make education about the natural world a part of every experience with us.

We are proud to employ island residents to help us with diving operations, housekeeping, and food services.