Target Reef - Cape Town & Western Cape

West Mansuar gives you a good cross-section of Raja Ampat’s charm. We usually start our dive in the sand and rubble, looking for those tiny Finescale Dottybacks or a well-camouflaged Jumping Blenny in the seagrass beds. It's a relaxed macro hunt until you drift towards the tip. That's where the current picks up, bringing in the schooling fusiliers and jacks. If you’re lucky, you might spot a Reef Manta Ray gliding by. The coral garden up top is truly healthy, a vibrant finish to a dive that suits intermediate divers who appreciate both the small and the grand.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.177000, 18.453800
Type
reef

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 Target Reef

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 Target Reef

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 diving depth at Target Reef?
The maximum diving depth at Target Reef is 25 meters. Divers exploring the site's concrete structures can typically reach depths around 22 meters. This depth range makes it suitable for divers with intermediate experience.
What kind of marine life and coral can be seen when diving at Target Reef?
When diving at Target Reef, you can expect to encounter a variety of marine life. Species such as Red Bait, Horse fish, Clown fish, reef fish, and kelp fish are commonly found here. Be aware that stone fish may also be present, particularly within the swim-throughs, but there is no mention of coral at this site.
Is Target Reef suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered a difficult dive site?
Target Reef is classified as an intermediate dive site, meaning it is not typically recommended for absolute beginner divers. Divers should be prepared for potential challenges such as large swell and strong currents. Experience with these conditions is advisable for a safe and enjoyable dive.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Target Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at Target Reef for optimal conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal conditions, we recommend checking the When to Dive section or consulting local dive operators in Cape Town & Western Cape.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Target Reef?
While the specific certifications required are not detailed in the provided information, given that Target Reef is an intermediate dive site, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures you are adequately prepared for potential strong currents and deeper sections. Always check with local dive centers for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Target Reef?
Divers at Target Reef should be aware of potentially strong currents and large swell, which can impact diving conditions. The average visibility at this site is typically around 4 meters. It's always recommended to check the latest conditions with local dive operators before planning your dive.