Albatross Rock - Cape Town & Western Cape

Albatross Rock is a solid dive when you're in the Cape Town area, offering a look at a fairly rugged sandstone reef. The top of the reef is mostly flat, but as you drop deeper, you’ll find gulleys and undercuts, bottoming out to sand around 12 metres. These gulleys generally run north to south, creating interesting swim-throughs and places for fish to shelter. We've seen plenty of local reef fish here, along with the occasional catshark tucked into the crevices. It’s a good spot for divers looking for a relaxed exploration rather than a high-octane drift.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.275450, 18.370167
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Cape Town & Western Cape

The warmest water temperatures in Cape Town & Western Cape occur in January, averaging 18.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 18.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.9°C (air: 20.8°C)
  • February: 18.9°C (air: 20.7°C)
  • March: 18.9°C (air: 19.5°C)
  • April: 18.9°C (air: 17.3°C)
  • May: 18.9°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • June: 18.9°C (air: 15.0°C)
  • July: 18.9°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • August: 18.9°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • September: 18.9°C (air: 13.9°C)
  • October: 18.9°C (air: 16.5°C)
  • November: 18.9°C (air: 17.8°C)
  • December: 18.9°C (air: 19.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cape Town & Western Cape

Nearest Dive Centres to Albatross Rock

Marine Life in Cape Town & Western Cape

Home to 271 recorded species including 176 reef fish, 45 sharks & rays, 28 whales & dolphins, 5 hard corals, 4 other, 4 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Albatross Rock

Based on average water temperature of 18.9°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • 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 for diving at Albatross Rock?
The maximum depth for diving at Albatross Rock is currently unknown based on available data. However, divers can expect to find sand bottoms in the gullies below approximately 12 meters, with deeper gulleys and undercuts extending further into the reef structure.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Albatross Rock?
Divers exploring Albatross Rock can expect to encounter a fairly rugged profile sandstone reef, characterized by relatively flat tops and deeper gulleys. These gulleys, which appear to run approximately north/south, feature undercuts in deeper water and transition to a sand bottom below about 12 meters. While specific marine life is not detailed, the reef structure provides a rich habitat for various species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Albatross Rock, considering currents and overall conditions?
Diving at Albatross Rock is considered to be of intermediate difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some experience and be comfortable with varying conditions. While specific details on currents and overall conditions are not provided, an intermediate rating typically implies potential challenges that experienced divers can manage.
When is the best time of year to dive Albatross Rock for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Albatross Rock for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the current data. We recommend checking local dive operators or our general when to dive guide for the region for more specific seasonal insights.
Are there any specific certifications or permits required to scuba dive at Albatross Rock?
The provided data does not specify any particular certifications or permits required to scuba dive at Albatross Rock. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers or authorities in Cape Town & Western Cape to ensure you meet all necessary requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Albatross Rock?
Details regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at Albatross Rock are not provided in the available data. As diving here is rated intermediate difficulty, divers should be prepared for potentially variable conditions. We recommend checking with local dive operators for real-time updates before your dive.