KLIPFONTEIN - Bazaruto Archipelago

Klipfontein, a passenger liner that went down in 1953, offers something genuinely special for wreck lovers in Bazaruto. At 152 metres long, she’s a huge structure resting upright at 40 metres. You descend into a deep blue, and gradually this massive silhouette resolves beneath you, growing larger and larger. The sheer scale is what grabs you first. We love exploring the forward sections, where the bridge structure is still largely intact, allowing for some interesting swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. Keep an eye out for potato groupers lurking in the shadows; they're huge here. We’ve also seen big schools of snapper and fusiliers swirling around the main deck, so thick they almost block out the light filtering down from above. The stern, while deeper, is equally impressive, with the propellers still discernible. It’s a dive best suited for experienced wreck divers comfortable with depth and potentially strong currents, as the open ocean exposure means conditions can vary. This isn't just a metal hulk; it's a living reef, completely colonised, and a proper adventure.

Location
Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-24.531944, 35.266666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Best Time to Dive in Bazaruto Archipelago

The warmest water temperatures in Bazaruto Archipelago occur in January, averaging 28.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 23.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C
  • February: 28.3°C
  • March: 27.6°C
  • April: 27.0°C
  • May: 25.9°C
  • June: 24.8°C
  • July: 23.8°C
  • August: 23.3°C
  • September: 23.6°C
  • October: 24.5°C
  • November: 25.8°C
  • December: 27.4°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Bazaruto Archipelago

Nearest Dive Centres to KLIPFONTEIN

Marine Life in Bazaruto Archipelago

Home to 99 recorded species including 70 reef fish, 14 sharks & rays, 4 other, 3 sea cucumbers, 3 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for KLIPFONTEIN

Based on average water temperature of 25.9°C, currents 35 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Klipfontein shipwreck dive site in Mozambique?
The Klipfontein shipwreck dive site in Mozambique reaches a maximum depth of 40 meters. This makes it a fascinating deep wreck dive within the Bazaruto Archipelago.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at the Klipfontein wreck?
Based on the provided data, specific details about the marine life and corals at the Klipfontein wreck are not available. However, wreck dives in the Mozambique region often become artificial reefs, attracting various fish species and soft corals over time. For general information on marine life, you can explore our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Klipfontein dive site, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
The Klipfontein dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a maximum depth of 40 meters, it is certainly suitable for advanced divers who are comfortable with deeper wreck diving and have appropriate training.
What is the best time of year to dive the Klipfontein shipwreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Klipfontein shipwreck. General information about diving seasons in Mozambique can often be found on our When to Dive page.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Klipfontein wreck?
Given the Klipfontein wreck's maximum depth of 40 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers would typically require an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, along with specialized deep diving training. It is always recommended to dive within your certification limits and with an experienced guide.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Klipfontein dive site off Zavora Beach?
The provided data does not include specific information about typical currents or water conditions at the Klipfontein dive site. Furthermore, the Klipfontein wreck is located in the Bazaruto Archipelago, not off Zavora Beach.