Eastern Cape Diving

The Eastern Cape Province of South Africa spans over 800km of rugged coastline. Due to the currents, the variance between the tropical north and chilly southern end of the province means that there is a wide variety of diving to be enjoyed here, particularly for the more adventurous diver.

Info We don't currently have any dive centers or liveaboards in Eastern Cape, but that might change. In the meantime, take a look at other dive experiences nearby in South Africa.

Diving in Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape region of South Africa has a range of coastal dive sites, from tropical coral reefs in the north to the rock-based kelp forests of the south. There are many different places you can dive in Eastern Cape as there are dive centres spread down the coastline, more concentrated in large cities like Johannesburg and East London.

There are a few wrecks which you can explore, spread up the coast. Many are known to have sunk in the area but have exact locations still unknown - maybe you’ll find the next one! Inland, there is a selection of lakes at altitude if you wish to further push your diving skill set. These dives are popular for training and technical dives, with some lakes featuring a cave or tunnel too.

The diving around South Africa’s coast is not usually suited to the inexperienced diver. The conditions can be physically challenging with large swells, cold water, strong currents and entries into surf. Weirdly enough, if you want a more beginner friendly dive, you can dive at two aquariums!

Typically the north has a tropical climate, with water temperatures ranging from 28oC in the summer to 24oC in the winter. The southern areas of the province range from 22oC to around 16oC.
 

Best places to dive

The world-famous African sardine run spans the length of the Eastern Cape and moving up the coast Mayl through June. The huge mass of fish brings in predators large and small in one of the greatest wonders of the world. They whip the fish into a tight bait ball and gorge. A very humbling sight to watch. 

The chokka (or squid) spawning event is much less famous but is no less impressive. Many thousands spawn simultaneously, also drawing in predators but with less chasing involved. It is tricky to get the time right though, hence why it is so elusive.

In East London, one of the most famous sites in Three Sisters. It is best dived in the summer and features beautiful pinnacles, bright corals, crevices and ledges. The macro life is stunning here and you can also find ragged-tooth sharks and big game fish. 

In Port Elizabeth, Orange Walls is famous for the abundant Spirastrella sponges that grow. It has a large pinnacle and an interesting swim through filled with life.