Renowned explorer Joe MacInnis reminisces about his lifelong dedication to undersea exploration. His passion for the ocean was ignited at 17 during his initial scuba dive off Fort Lauderdale in 1954. MacInnis, now 88, has delved into the depths of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans for over 6,000 hours, even assisting filmmaker James Cameron in researching the film “Titanic.”
Born in Toronto, MacInnis initially pursued a medical career before embracing the call of the sea during a transformative era in ocean science advancements. He merged his medical background with his love for underwater exploration, contributing to the U.S. Navy’s Sealab project and aiding in drafting Canada’s inaugural national ocean policy.
MacInnis established Sublimnos, Canada’s first underwater research station, beneath Lake Huron, fostering studies on marine life and oceanic phenomena. In 1972, he spearheaded the creation of Sub-Igloo, the world’s first manned underwater station in the Arctic Ocean, marking his historic dive beneath the North Pole.
His endeavors included discovering shipwrecks like the Breadalbane and the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, as well as collaborating with James Cameron on various expeditions, including the exploration of the Titanic. MacInnis’ mentorship and partnership with Cameron have been enduring, leading to Cameron’s acclaimed film “Titanic” and their shared commitment to oceanic exploration.
Reflecting on his experiences, MacInnis emphasizes the profound respect and humility he holds for the ocean, describing it as a source of both fear and reverence. Despite his numerous achievements, MacInnis remains eager to continue his journey of exploration and share his remarkable life through projects like a memoir and documentary to inspire positive change globally.