Two Oceans Kelp Tank - Cape Town & Western Cape

Oasis is a quick boat ride from Natadola Beach, a good spot if you’re looking to get wet without a long commute. It’s a wall dive, bottoming out around 17 meters, though we’ve seen divemasters push a little deeper here for training. Around the 22-meter mark, you might find some small caves and, if you’re lucky, a sleeping nurse shark tucked away. The shallower section has healthy corals and sponges, a nice contrast to the potential for turtles, eagle rays, and nudibranchs down deeper. It’s a decent training ground, particularly for deep dives or night dives, with average visibility usually around 19 meters.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-33.907900, 18.417500
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Robben island 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 Two Oceans Kelp Tank

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 Two Oceans Kelp Tank

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 for diving in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank?
The maximum depth for diving in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank is 8 meters. This 6-meter deep aquarium tank offers a unique controlled environment for divers to explore.
What marine life and features can divers expect to see in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank?
Divers exploring the Two Oceans Kelp Tank can expect to encounter a diverse array of captive wildlife, including fascinating Sleeper Sharks and Pajama Sharks. Unique to this environment, you might even spot Rockhopper Penguins enjoying a cool-off. The tank itself features live kelp, simulating a natural kelp forest ecosystem.
How difficult is it to dive in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank, considering currents and potential entanglement?
Diving in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank is considered to be of intermediate difficulty. While the tank simulates the natural ebb and flow of waves, the live kelp is tied down, which may help manage potential entanglement risks. Divers should be prepared for a controlled environment with some simulated movement.
What are the typical water temperatures and best times to dive the Two Oceans Kelp Tank?
The provided data does not specify the typical water temperatures or the best times to dive the Two Oceans Kelp Tank. For information on general diving conditions in Cape Town & Western Cape, you might consult additional resources.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank?
The available data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required to dive in the Two Oceans Kelp Tank. Given its intermediate difficulty, it is advisable to contact the facility directly for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like inside the Two Oceans Kelp Tank?
Inside the Two Oceans Kelp Tank, the current conditions are designed to simulate the natural ebb and flow of waves, providing a dynamic yet controlled environment. Divers can expect excellent visibility, with an average of 13 meters, offering clear views of the marine life and kelp forest.