Western Cape, the southernmost province of South Africa, offers diverse and magnificent diving experiences. From the stunning kelp forests of the Cape Peninsula to the enchanting caves and swim-throughs of Mossel Bay, Western Cape serves up some truly remarkable underwater landscapes.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
Shark Alley, Gansbaai: Famed for its Great White Shark cage diving, Shark Alley in Gansbaai offers an adrenaline-fueled experience that isn't for the faint-hearted. Given the nature of the activity, prior scuba experience is beneficial though not mandatory, as the cage often floats on the surface.
The Aster Wreck, Cape Town: A shipwreck dive located off the coast of Cape Town, The Aster sank in 1900 and now lies in 30 meters (98 feet) of water. The wreck, encrusted with corals and sponges, has attracted an abundance of marine life.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
Long Beach, Simon's Town: With a maximum depth of around 18 meters (59 feet), Long Beach is perfect for beginners. The site is teeming with diverse marine life including octopuses, nudibranchs, rays, and occasionally, seals.
A-Frame, Cape Town: This shallow dive site is well-protected from wind and currents, making it suitable for novice divers. It's home to kelp forests, gorgonian fan corals, and a wide variety of fish species.
Marine Life
Western Cape's underwater world is vibrant and varied. Among the kelp forests, divers can spot a plethora of fish species, including the iconic Cape Fur Seals. At Gansbaai, divers can observe the majestic Great White Shark, while a myriad of critters like octopus, nudibranchs, and lobsters can be found at most dive sites.
Dive Conditions
The water temperature in the Western Cape varies greatly depending on the season, ranging from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer. Visibility can be up to 25 meters (82 feet) on a good day, but averages around 10-15 meters (33-50 feet). Due to its location at the convergence of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, the area can have strong currents and conditions can change quickly.
Cost
The cost of diving in the Western Cape can range from $50 to $100 per dive, including gear rental, depending on the dive site and operator. Shark cage diving trips tend to be more expensive, costing around $150 to $200. A PADI open water certification course can cost between $350 and $450. It's recommended to check with the dive center for exact pricing.
Whether you're embarking on your first dive or seeking to expand your dive log, Western Cape offers a variety of marine experiences that cater to all levels of diving expertise.
