THOMAS T. TUCKER - Cape Town & Western Cape

The Thomas T. Tucker, a Liberty Ship run aground in 1942, sits in just three metres of water off Olifantsbosch Point. It’s not a deep dive, obviously, but what it lacks in depth it makes up for in character. You’ll find its scattered remains, a tangle of metalwork and twisted plates, providing shelter for plenty of local critters. Expect to see schools of hottentot and strepies darting through the structure, with the occasional shy octopus tucked into a crevice. It’s a great spot for a relaxed snorkel or an easy dive, especially on a calm day when the Atlantic swell isn't making things too bouncy.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.273335, 18.380000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

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 THOMAS T. TUCKER

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 THOMAS T. TUCKER

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 of the SS Thomas T. Tucker dive site?
The maximum depth of the SS Thomas T. Tucker dive site is 3 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique wreck experience close to the surface.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Thomas T. Tucker wreck?
Divers exploring the Thomas T. Tucker wreck can expect to see the impressive remains of a liberty ship vessel, built in 1942 and sunk on November 28, 1942. The wreck features a triple expansion engine of 339NHP and significant dimensions of 134.4m x 17.4m. As a classified wreck showing portions of its hull or superstructure, it offers a fascinating historical exploration.
How challenging is diving the SS Thomas T. Tucker wreck, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving the SS Thomas T. Tucker wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort with wreck diving or similar conditions. It's an excellent site for those looking to advance their skills beyond beginner levels.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions to dive the Thomas T. Tucker wreck?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or specific conditions for diving the Thomas T. Tucker wreck. For up-to-date information on local conditions and optimal diving periods, it's always best to consult local dive operators in Cape Town & Western Cape.
Are there any specific certifications or permits required to dive the SS Thomas T. Tucker?
The provided data does not specify any particular certifications or permits required to dive the SS Thomas T. Tucker. However, given its intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended for wreck dives. Always check with local dive centers in Cape Town & Western Cape for the most current requirements.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the Thomas T. Tucker dive site?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding the typical currents or visibility at the Thomas T. Tucker dive site. For the most accurate and current information on these conditions, we recommend contacting local dive operators in the Cape Town & Western Cape area.