Target Reef

About this dive site

This dive site, known as Target Reef, has a fascinating history rooted in its origins as disused naval gunnery targets. The reef is located on a small, nearly circular structure approximately 40 meters across, constructed primarily of rubble, boulders, and granite bedrock rising to about 22 meters, with a substantial reinforced concrete block at the center standing around 18 meters below the surface. This block, measuring about 12 meters high and 10-12 meters along each side, is identical to blocks used in the Simon's Town naval dockyard’s new harbor wall. The top of the structure has been severely damaged by gunfire, leaving steel reinforcing bar exposed and large chunks of debris held together by these bars – a testament to its past use. Two significant sections of the concrete structure have fallen down to the reef; one located at the base to the north-west, and another slid down to the sand edge on the south-west. The surrounding seabed is covered in similar benthic invertebrates as seen at Castor Reef. Shoals of small Hottentot fish are frequently observed hovering above the structure. Notably, there’s a significant accumulation of redbait at approximately 18 meters, which is considered quite deep for this type of organism. Visibility might be limited due to the rubble and encrustation. Photography isn't ideal on this site – it lacks substantial biological diversity and is relatively small. Macro photography would likely yield the best results. The average depth is approximately 15 meters, with a maximum depth of around 22 meters.