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Aliwal Shoal

Aliwal Shoal really shines as a big animal destination, particularly for shark lovers. We've spent many a dive here, hanging in the blue, just waiting for the next shape to emerge from the deeper water. It's a fossilized sand dune, now a rocky reef, sitting about 5km offshore, and that exposed position means you often get big currents. Don't let that put you off, though; it’s usually what brings in the action. Visibility can swing wildly, from glorious 30m days to a more challenging 8m, especially if there's been some weather. But even in murkier conditions, those ragged-tooth sharks (we call them 'raggies' here) are impossible to miss during their winter aggregation, a truly spectacular sight. You’ll also bump into honeycomb stingrays patrolling the sandy patches and the occasional oceanic manta ray gliding past. On the reef itself, look out for the vibrant Red Sea Half-and-half Chromis darting amongst the cauliflower corals and the inquisitive Talang queenfish. We'd suggest aiming for a morning dive; the light is better, and the boat traffic is usually a bit lighter. This spot is definitely one for the intermediate diver, comfortable with some chop and the possibility of a strong drift.