Boardroom pinnacle - Cape Town & Western Cape

Cape Town’s Boardroom pinnacle is a solid dive, not always the showstopper, but consistently interesting. It’s essentially a large, domed swim-through formed by huge granite boulders, typical of the False Bay coastline. You drop down to about 19 meters, navigate through the structure, and sometimes find a small air pocket at the top around 16 meters. We've seen shy red Romans poking their heads out, and the rock walls are often dusted with colourful sponges. It’s a good spot for divers comfortable in overhead environments, and a nice change of pace from the kelp forests.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-33.979350, 18.357517
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Duikerklip Provincial Nature Reserve

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 Boardroom pinnacle

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 Boardroom pinnacle

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 and average depth for diving at Boardroom Pinnacle?
While the overall maximum depth for Boardroom Pinnacle is not explicitly stated, the rocky bottom within the domed swim-through is found at about 19 meters. The top of the air space inside this unique feature is probably situated at about 16 to 17 meters depth. Divers should be prepared for depths in this range when exploring the site.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Boardroom Pinnacle?
Divers at Boardroom Pinnacle can expect to explore a fascinating granite reef characterized by large corestone boulders. The main attraction is a unique domed swim-through, approximately 33 meters long and 14 meters wide, located under a huge boulder. This site also features a rocky bottom and an intriguing air space within the swim-through.
What is the recommended skill level or difficulty rating for diving Boardroom Pinnacle, especially considering its swim-throughs and air trap?
Diving at Boardroom Pinnacle is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. This rating is particularly relevant due to the site's distinctive features, including a domed swim-through and an air space. Divers should possess the necessary skills and experience for navigating such underwater environments.
When is the best time of year to dive Boardroom Pinnacle for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Boardroom Pinnacle for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive seasons, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific dive certifications or permits required to dive at Boardroom Pinnacle, particularly for exploring the cave and air trap?
The provided data does not specify any particular dive certifications or permits required to dive at Boardroom Pinnacle, especially for exploring its cave-like swim-through and air trap. Divers are always encouraged to ensure they have appropriate training and experience for intermediate-level dives and overhead environments.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Boardroom Pinnacle?
Details regarding the typical current conditions and visibility at Boardroom Pinnacle are not included in the available information. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.