Ark Rock - Cape Town & Western Cape

Ark Rock is a classic for a reason. Just outside Simon’s Town, the big, unmistakable rock is our go-to when we want to just enjoy the ocean. The maximum depth is only 12 metres, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's not worth the trip. The star attraction here, of course, is the Cape fur seals. Usually, a group of youngsters will greet you as you drop in, zipping past, nibbling fins, and generally putting on a show. We’ve spent entire dives just watching their antics, feeling the brush of their whiskers as they dart by. Beyond the seals, the rocky reef here is covered in common brittlestars. They’re everywhere, little purple and orange arms waving from every crevice. You’ll also find some of our endemic shark species tucked away – look for shysharks under ledges. Visibility averages around 6 metres, which is decent for the area, but we’ve had days where it stretched to 10 metres and the light just streamed through the kelp. It’s a lovely, easy dive, perfect for knocking out a couple of cylinders without too much fuss.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.192000, 18.453600

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 Ark 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 Ark 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 typical depth range for diving at Ark Rock?
The maximum depth for diving at Ark Rock is 12m. This makes it a relatively shallow dive, suitable for various experience levels. It's an excellent site for enjoying the underwater scenery without extreme depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ark Rock?
Divers at Ark Rock can explore a vibrant reef environment. You'll almost always encounter playful young Cape fur seals, and brittle stars are very common. Additionally, keep an eye out for endemic shark species that inhabit this area.
Is Ark Rock considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginners?
Ark Rock is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not typically recommended for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it enjoyable and manageable. Its maximum depth of 12m makes it accessible for those with foundational dive skills.
What are the best conditions or time of year to dive at Ark Rock?
The provided data does not specify the best conditions or time of year to dive at Ark Rock. For more detailed information on seasonal diving in the Cape Town & Western Cape area, you might consult local dive operators or our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Ark Rock?
While the data doesn't specify exact certification requirements, given that Ark Rock is an intermediate dive, an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended. Divers should have some experience to comfortably navigate the site and enjoy the marine life.
How are the currents and visibility typically at the Ark Rock dive site?
The average visibility at Ark Rock is typically around 6m. The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents at this dive site. It's always a good practice to check local conditions before planning your dive.