Sodwana Bay, South Africa

[scubaculture]

I didn't see a section for African dive sites, hope its ok here. There are some awesome dive sites in South Africa and with the exchange rate the diving is very cheap there.

SODWANA BAY Sodwana is situated 400 km north of Durban near the Mozambique border and as such enjoys a tropical climate. The combination of tropical sunshine and the warm Aughlas current which flows over the reefs, has allowed the formation of a unique coral reef dominated by colourful soft corals. Over 1200 species of reef fish have been identified in the area and the reefs are often visited by the animals such Mantas, Whale sharks, Zambezi sharks, Humpback whales and dolphins.


Some sightings are seasonal, such as the Whales, which are only seen during their migration from June to September. Loggerhead turtles are common year round, but from November through to January they can been seen laying eggs on the beaches at night. During this time you can also see the elusive giant Leatherback turtles.


Sodwana also has safe beaches for swimming in the sea. Weatherwise the best time to visit Sodwana is from March through to June when the weather is mild. July to September is regarded as the windy season, although pleasant. Although October through to February is hot with thundershowers, if you can handle the heat it is also a good time to visit as this is when the visibility is best.


Sodwana Bay is one of the most popular of the dive sites – means "little one on its own" in Zulu, is easily accessible, only three and a half hours – 4 hours drive from Durban by tar road. Temperatures are always above 21° C (70° F) and avergering 24° C – 28° C. There are many shallow coastal pools, which are suitable for snorkeling with interesting reef formations and fish life


Anton’s Reef – 2 Mile Reef
Average depth is 15m. A fantastic variety of residential tropical fish and dense shoals of Big-eyes, Moorish Idols and Snappers hover above the coral. Scorpionfish, moray eels, big potato bass, marbled rays and triggerfish are a common sight. The coral is dense and varied, excellent for photography.


Pinnacles
Average depth 10 -15m. The formation of the corals resembles that of gullies and caves, sandy patches flanked by over-hangs, walls and swim throughs. Occasionally a visit from a passing shoal of dolphins, whale shark or large pelagics may be seen.


Gullies, Caves and Overhangs
Average depth is 10 -15 m. Resident potato bass are up to 1.5 m long. Sea turtles and rays are often seen here. A wide range of coral and invertebrates occur in this zone because of the shallow depths and good light penetration. Small sharks can be sighted.


Seven and Nine Mile Reef
The drop-offs and mushroom-shaped pinnacles, characteristic of this wonderful ref with its great diversity of marine life, make it a favourite among divers.

Some pics:

[gibson1525]

have you ever done the sardine run? i've been curious about it.

[scubaculture]

Yeah I just replied to your thread. I can pass on some dive operator info if you like

[gibson1525]

oh, just saw it. sounds like a good time. yea, any info you have would be great. it sounds like a neat experience. what's the best time of year to go?

[lovesmexico615]

I've been looking at SA for a trip. I have a friend working in Swaziland, and am trying to put together something to see her, travel around SA and check out the area. Now that I've seen this, I'm ready to go!!!

[robjoubert]

A map of dive sites in South Africa and Mozambique:- Map of scuba dive sites in South Africa and Mozambique

Another link is - SCUBA DIVING in SOUTH AFRICA - Dive sites, diving conditions, equiptment and diver safety

[kyfriedchipper]

ever done the cages @ Dyer Island?