WUTA - Cape Town & Western Cape

The WUTA is a fascinating dive for those interested in a bit of history along with their wreck exploration. Sitting at 29 meters, this motor vessel went down back in 1968 after engine failure and a heavy list. We’ve found her to be a manageable dive, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of depth and have good buoyancy control. The wreck itself, at just over 30 meters long, is nicely broken up, offering cool swim-throughs and lots of nooks for looking into. Keep an eye out for shy shy sharks tucked amongst the twisted metal and the occasional octopus peeking from a dark corner. It’s a solid pick for divers looking for a proper wreck dive without being too overwhelming.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-33.058613, 17.963888
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
29m

Marine Protected Area: Marcus 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 WUTA

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 WUTA

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 maximum depth for recreational diving at WUTA?
The typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the WUTA dive site is 29 meters. This depth makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at WUTA?
Divers at WUTA can expect to explore the remains of a motor vessel, measuring 30.8m x 6.1m, which sank on November 20, 1968. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. For more general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging are the dive conditions at WUTA for different skill levels?
The dive conditions at WUTA are classified as intermediate difficulty. This site is considered a dangerous wreck, indicating that it requires a certain level of experience and caution from divers. It is best suited for divers who are comfortable with wreck diving and have the necessary skills for such environments.
What is the best time of year to dive at WUTA for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Our current data for the WUTA dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. We recommend checking our general When to Dive resource for broader guidance on diving in the region.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at WUTA?
Given that WUTA is an intermediate difficulty dive with a maximum depth of 29 meters and classified as a dangerous wreck, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is highly recommended. Additionally, specialized training in wreck diving would be beneficial to safely navigate and appreciate this site.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the WUTA dive site?
Our current data for the WUTA dive site does not include specific information regarding typical currents or visibility conditions. Divers should consult with local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.