Inside Edge - Aliwal Shoal
Aliwal Shoal's diverse pinnacles and marine life
Boat Access
10m Avg Depth
20m Max Depth
About this dive site
This dive site, Inside Edge at Aliwal Shoal, is renowned for its stunning underwater topography. The site is characterized by a series of dramatic pinnacles, gullies, swim-throughs, and caverns rising from the sandy seabed, creating a complex and exciting environment to explore. Divers can navigate through a labyrinthine network of underwater features, discovering hidden crevices and dramatic drop-offs. The shoal's formation is a result of ancient coral reefs and natural geological processes.
Marine life is incredibly abundant at this site. Clownfish inhabit vibrant anemones, while colorful nudibranchs crawl among the coral. A wide variety of fish species, including reef fish, pelagic fish and larger animals can be observed. Sharks, rays, and turtles are regular visitors, while the surrounding waters may occasionally host whale migrations (depending on the season).
The best time to visit Aliwal Shoal is during the warmer months (October to April), when visibility is typically excellent and marine life is most active. For freedivers, the shallower sections of Inside Edge offer opportunities for breath-hold dives, while divers can explore the deeper parts, always keeping in mind the moderate currents that can be present. Always check local weather and current conditions before entering the water.
DivingFreedivingSnorkeling
Plan Your Visit
drift divesharkturtlecoral reefswim-throughcavernmacro photographywide anglesouth africaumkomaas
Things to Note
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Moderate currents and varied depths require experience.
Hazards:
strong currentsmarine life
Current Strength:
Moderate
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