SHIR YIB - Cape Town & Western Cape

The Shir Yib, a diesel-electric floating crane that went down near Dias Beach in 1970, lies broken up in about 15 metres. This isn't a wreck you'll penetrate, but rather an interesting jumble of metalwork scattered across the seabed, making for an enjoyable rummage. We’ve found the remains attract plenty of localised reef fish – think hottentot and strepies – and the occasional shy octopus tucked away in a crevice. It’s an easy, shallow dive, good for newer divers keen to explore a wreck site without the complexities of deeper or intact structures. The exposure to the open ocean means conditions can be variable, so pick a calm day.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.357777, 18.498333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

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 SHIR YIB

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 SHIR YIB

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 the SHIR YIB shipwreck?
The SHIR YIB shipwreck is found at a typical depth of 15 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it an accessible dive for many certified divers. You can find more details about this site on its DivePlnr page.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the SHIR YIB dive site?
The SHIR YIB is a fascinating wreck dive, classified as a wreck showing any portion of hull or superstructure. Divers can explore the remains of this mobile crane vessel, a diesel-electric floating crane that sank on July 29, 1970. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is the SHIR YIB shipwreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The SHIR YIB shipwreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for divers with some experience, rather than absolute beginners. Divers should possess the necessary skills and comfort level for an intermediate-level wreck dive at 15 meters.
What is the best time of year to dive the SHIR YIB shipwreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the SHIR YIB shipwreck. For general guidance on diving in the region of Cape Town & Western Cape, you might consult when to dive resources or local dive operators.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the SHIR YIB shipwreck?
Given its intermediate difficulty and classification as a wreck dive at 15 meters, divers should ideally hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty wreck diving certification. While specific requirements aren't listed, having experience with wreck diving equipment and techniques is highly recommended for exploring the SHIR YIB safely.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the SHIR YIB shipwreck dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical currents or water conditions at the SHIR YIB shipwreck dive site. Divers planning to visit this Cape Town & Western Cape dive site should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions and any potential challenges.