ROMELIA - Cape Town & Western Cape

The Romelia wreck sits just off Llandudno, a tanker that went down in 1977 on its way to the scrapyard. What's left lies mostly broken up in around 10 metres of water, so it’s a good spot for newer divers or for a longer, shallower dive. We often find playful seals zipping around the mangled metal, darting between sections of the hull. Look closely and you’ll spot colourful nudibranchs clinging to the rusty plates, and sometimes a shy octopus tucked into a crevice. It’s not the most intact wreck, but it’s full of life and an easy dive if you’re in the area.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.011528, 18.331667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

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 ROMELIA

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 ROMELIA

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 typical depth range for diving the Romelia wreck?
The Romelia wreck is found at a depth of 10m. This makes it an accessible dive for many certification levels, offering a relatively shallow wreck experience. Divers can expect to explore the site primarily at this depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Romelia dive site?
Divers exploring the Romelia can expect to see the impressive features of a large tanker vessel, measuring 202.4m x 26.5m. This substantial wreck, sunk in 1977, offers a fascinating structure for exploration, with portions of its hull and superstructure still visible. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species that colonize the structure.
How difficult is the Romelia dive site, and are there any specific challenges like surge or entanglement?
The Romelia dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While the provided data does not specify challenges like surge or entanglement, divers should always be prepared for typical wreck diving conditions. It's advisable to consult with local dive operators in Cape Town & Western Cape for the most current site conditions and potential hazards.
What is the best time of year or specific weather conditions for diving the Romelia wreck to ensure good visibility and calmer seas?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or specific weather conditions for diving the Romelia to ensure good visibility and calmer seas. For optimal diving conditions, we recommend checking local weather forecasts and consulting with local dive centers in Cape Town & Western Cape. They can provide up-to-date information on seasonal variations and current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the Romelia wreck?
Given its intermediate difficulty and a depth of 10m, the Romelia wreck is generally accessible to divers with an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. For those interested in more advanced exploration or potential wreck penetration, specialized wreck diving certifications would be highly beneficial. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort level.
What are the typical current and water conditions, including visibility, at the Romelia dive site?
The provided data does not detail the typical current, water conditions, or visibility at the Romelia dive site. For up-to-date information on these crucial conditions, it is best to contact local dive operators in the Cape Town & Western Cape region. They can provide the most accurate insights into current conditions and what to expect during your dive.