Waters Edge - Cape Town & Western Cape

Amphorafield, just off Bodrum, is exactly what it sounds like. You’ll find pottery scattered across the seabed, remnants of ancient trade routes. It’s a gentle dive, generally calm, so it’s a good spot for newer divers or those who prefer a relaxed pace. We often spot octopus and moray eels tucked into the rocks near the amphorae, making for some interesting photo opportunities.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.195100, 18.449400

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 Waters Edge

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 Waters Edge

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 scuba diving at Waters Edge?
The maximum depth at Waters Edge is 6m, making it a relatively shallow dive site. Divers can expect to explore depths up to this limit, enjoying the unique features of this Cape Town & Western Cape location.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Waters Edge?
Divers at Waters Edge can expect to encounter a diverse reef environment. The site features a flat, gently shelving sand bottom with occasional low rock outcrops, as well as a line of high reef close inshore and large shoreline boulders and gullies. This combination of habitats supports various marine species, making it an interesting site for exploration.
How challenging is the Waters Edge dive site for different levels of divers?
The Waters Edge dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This is partly due to its exposure to swell and winds from the southeast, which can influence conditions. Divers should have some experience to comfortably navigate this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Waters Edge for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Waters Edge for optimal conditions. For more information on seasonal diving, you might consult general resources on when to dive in the Cape Town & Western Cape region.
Are there any specific certifications or permits required to dive at Waters Edge?
Yes, a permit is explicitly required to dive at Waters Edge. This site is located within a Marine Protected Area (established in 2004) and is entirely inside the Boulders Restricted Zone, necessitating proper authorization for diving activities.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at the Waters Edge dive site?
At Waters Edge, divers can expect an average visibility of 4m. The site is also noted for being exposed to swell and winds from the southeast, which can influence water movement and overall conditions.