MEISHO MARU NO.38 - Cape Town & Western Cape

Cape Agulhas is known as the "Graveyard of Ships" for good reason, and the Meisho Maru No. 38 is one of its most accessible residents. This Japanese fishing trawler ran aground in 1982, and today, its broken shell lies scattered across the reef in just 4 metres of water. We love a shallow wreck, especially one with such a dramatic story, and the Meisho delivers a surprisingly atmospheric dive. You’re really exploring the skeleton of a ship here, rather than a fully intact wreck. Twisted metal plates and beams form swim-throughs, while the engine block sits exposed, encrusted with anemones and soft corals. Keep an eye out for octopus tucked into crevices and schools of hottentot darting between the rusted ribs. Our favourite time to visit is on a calm, sunny morning, when the light penetrates the shallow water, illuminating the vibrant growth and making the whole scene shimmer. It's a fantastic site for photographers, and perfect for snorkelers or newer divers wanting a true wreck experience without the depth. Just be mindful of surge, as it can get choppy out here.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.833332, 20.000000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Quoin Rock 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 MEISHO MARU NO.38

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 MEISHO MARU NO.38

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