Explore The Best Scuba Diving Spots in the Western Cape, South Africa
Known for its picturesque landscapes of dramatic mountain ranges, spectacular beaches, and mountain vineyards, the Western Cape’s coastal areas are also well known for its world-class scuba diving opportunities. Every year advanced and recreational scuba divers are attracted to the Western Cape to explore its beautiful underwater seascape bursting with diverse marine life.
The western cape is surrounded by pristine, clear waters. The nutrient-rich currents of the two oceans feeding off its coast creates an abundance of marine life, perfect for scuba diving.
Scuba Diving Destinations
No matter if you’re a beginner or professional scuba diver, the below breathtaking scuba diving locations are must-dive spots that the Western Cape is renowned for.
1. Seal Island, Hout Bay
Seal Island, just off the coast of Hout Bay, is one of the best locations for shark cage diving in the world. It is home to thousands of Cape Fur Seals, creating a playground for magnificent great white sharks. Perfect for the more experienced divers, it’s only accessible by boat and offers one dive a day. Booking a dive is highly recommended as this once-in-a-lifetime experience is one of the Cape’s most popular scuba diving locations.
2. Long Beach, Simon’s Town
Long Beach, also known as Boulders Beach, is perfect for any experienced or beginner divers. Also known as a safe beach to sunbathe, as it is located in a protected bay. Formidable granite boulders line the beach creating an ideal home and playground for hundreds of African penguins. Within the bay, two shipwrecks and an underwater cave offer an exciting range of exploration that’s sure to add some excitement to any scuba diving adventure.
3. Cloof Wine Estate
It’s not just the land at Cloof Wine Estate that’s worth a visit, the undersea world here is just as vibrant. Apart from the beautiful wineries and breathtaking views, the estate hosts some of the best dive spots and is located on the same property as the iconic Cape Columbine Lighthouse. At the estate, divers can experience an amazing array of tropical fish, stripy sea snakes, shallow and deep undersea caves, and wonders from 4 to 28m.
4. Waterworld, Beervlei
If it’s adventure you’re after then Waterworld, located in Beervlei, is the spot for you. This location offers a surreal, other-worldly experience with its spectacular shipwrecks, underwater sculptures, and wrecked cars. Take the plunge and explore the old holiday village underwater and the wreck of a military truck that’s 24-metres underwater. Be sure to look out for the big fish that inhabit the area, notably coelacanth, batfish, reef sharks, and rays.
5. Gansbaai
Gansbaai is considered one of the greatest, and most thrilling, dive spots in the world. Near to the world’s largest breeding site of the Great White Shark, divers can experience one of the world’s rarest, most thrilling, and most memorable shark dives. Here you can see a wide variety of fish species, playful seals, and of course, the Great Whites who often come right up to the cage.
Don’t be worried, cage diving and scuba diving in Gansbaai is safe and dive masters are with the group at all times, ensuring the dive is both enjoyable and safe. It’s highly advised that experienced scuba divers head to Gansbaai, with all the gear and plenty of air. The water here is very cold, so dry suits are highly recommended.
Prepare for Your South African Scuba Diving Adventure with Qiktruck
For anyone looking for the extra convenience of having everything ready when visiting the best scuba diving spots in South Africa’s Western Cape, QikTruck has you covered. QikTruck provides an on-demand truck and driver hire service for the specified travel duration you will need. So, if you’re a pro or an amateur, don’t be afraid to dive into this thrilling experience.
QikTruck’s safety protocol and high standards will provide you with the peace of mind you’re after. Professional drivers offer safe and experienced off-road navigation with first class customer service so you can make the most of exploring the best scuba diving sites the Western Cape has to offer.
In addition, they offer a variety of 4x4 or off-road vehicles to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re planning multiple dives or need enough room for a family scuba diving adventure, QikTruck has a truck for every scuba diving occasion.
Make It Happen
The South African Western Cape is home to some of the most spectacular dive sites in the world. With QikTruck, discovering South Africa’s most stunning underwater seascape is made effortless. QikTruck strives to provide South African’s with access to the beautiful underwater world this magnificent country has on offer, allowing you to take the plunge!
Whether it’s taking on a cage dive with a great white shark in Gansbaai, or enjoying the seal playground off Seal Island, the Western Cape has it all. Don’t forget to check the best scuba diving spots in the area, and to book your Qik