While Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is justifiably famous for its shipwrecks, the Cape of Storms has done its fair share to bring aquatic voyages to an end in Cape Town. What’s more, if you are the proud owner of a Scuba Dive Certification Card, you could get to see these sunken masterpieces up close during your southern African safari.
These shipwrecks have become incredible habitats for countless aquatic lifeforms over the years, making for thrilling and beautiful dives during a trip to the Mother City.
See the Shipwrecks
You’ll need help finding these hidden treasures, so get in touch with us and we will arrange thrilling excursions with one of the local dive schools to see some of these thriving undersea neighborhoods.
The packages usually include two guided dives, all the necessary equipment, lunch and refreshments as well as the necessary permit for diving in protected waters. All you need to bring along are your Dive Certification Card, sunblock, warm clothing and a towel.
These are some of the shipwreck sites you need to put on your bucket list right now if you’re planning a trip to Cape Town:
The Lusitania 1911
The wreck of this Portuguese twin-screw passenger liner is accessed from Miller’s Point and lies on the eastern side of Bellows Rock, about 4km off Cape Point. While this wreck is home to a large variety of invertebrates and large fish, it’s not to be attempted by the inexperienced. The site lies deep beneath the ocean, with a strong surge near the surface.
Don’t even think about attempting it in less-than-perfect conditions.
Clan Stuart 1914
This 3 500-ton British turret steamship is now home to shy sharks, pyjama sharks, red roman, zebra’s, octopus and cuttlefish.
With a maximum depth of 9 meters, it’s a wonderful dive for beginners and the perfect introduction to wreck diving along the Cape Coast. You might even get to see a seal swimming around as you descend.
SAS Pietermaritzburg 1994
This battle worn ship was laid to rest in 1994 about 2km north of Miller’s Point. The ship is perfectly intact and an excellent place to see a great variety of marine life. The SAS Pietermaritzburg once held the title of HMS Pelorus and is famous for being at the forefront of the Normandy invasion on D-Day.
After the war, the ship was sold to the SA Navy and that is how she came to be resting beneath the Atlantic waters of Cape Town after being retired from service as a minesweeper.
Go Down in Cape Town
If you would like to join the hundreds of divers who’ve enjoyed the aquatic delights of the Atlantic Ocean in False Bay, get in touch. We can arrange a full itinerary to all of the best dive sites during your Southern African safari.
