© Shutterstock-Robert Harding Video

Explore KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal province is the most north-easterly province of South Africa and enjoys warm, tropical temperatures - both in and out of the water. The region’s biggest city is Durban and it boasts several towns which are renowned for their diving - these include Sodwana Bay and Umkomaas. 

The marine biodiversity here is some of the highest in the world with over 1,200 species of fish found in these waters. The region has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. 

The ocean life here has huge variety - from tiny macro species to migrating humpback whales and whale sharks, there is something for everyone. Critically endangered species like loggerhead and leatherback turtles are frequent visitors and manta rays are not uncommonly found. 

One of the most famous marine phenomenons in the world is the African Sardine Run. The annual migration of millions of fish up the eastern African coast draws in huge numbers of predators who whip the fish into tight bait balls. This is a bucket list dive for most divers and hanging in the blue watching the feeding frenzy is unforgettable. 

The most popular areas for diving are Aliwal Shoal, Durban, Umkomaas and Sodwana Bay. Within these locations, you can find any dive you desire. There are large pelagic encounters to enjoy as well as drift dives, muck dives and wreck dives.

Top Regions to Explore

Upcoming Events

Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Tucked right on Scottburgh’s golden sands, ScubaXcursion at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and world-class diving into an unforgettable adventure destination. Set just steps from the warm Indian Ocean, this dive centre is perfectly located for anyone wanting to explore one of the world’s most thrilling scuba spots — Aliwal Shoal — without sacrificing easy access to welcoming accommodation and resort amenities. A Hub for Adventure and Comfort Located on the beachfront of the picturesque Premier Resort Cutty Sark Hotel, ScubaXcursion places you literally on the doorstep of your diving adventure. After surfacing from colourful reefs or thrilling shark encounters, you can stroll back to comfortable resort rooms with sweeping ocean views, rest by the pool, or enjoy the hotel’s relaxed coastal atmosphere. Dive the Legendary Aliwal Shoal Aliwal Shoal is consistently ranked among the top dive sites in the world — a marine protected reef system teeming with life, dramatic topography and thrilling encounters beneath the surface. From vibrant coral gardens and dramatic canyons to shipwrecks and high-energy reef walls, each dive offers something new and spectacular. Highlights of diving with ScubaXcursion include: Daily charters from Scottburgh beach out to the Shoal — giving easy access to both the famed northern reefs and the adventurous southern sites. Wildlife encounters with an astonishing range of species from tropical reef fish and turtles to seasonal visitors like humpback whales, dolphins and whale sharks. Shark diving opportunities, with ragged-tooth sharks (“raggies”), blacktip sharks and, in season, even the awe-inspiring tiger shark. Ideal for Divers of All Levels Whether you’re a certified diver making bucket-list dives or a newcomer wanting to try scuba for the first time, ScubaXcursion caters to all. As an internationally recognised SSI Instructor Training Centre, they offer courses from Open Water certification to advanced specialties under experienced guidance — and in one of the most rewarding marine environments on Earth. Easy Access & Local Convenience Conveniently positioned along the scenic KZN South Coast, the resort and dive centre provide shuttle services to and from Durban and King Shaka International Airport — making your dive trip seamless from arrival to water entry. In short: staying at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel and diving with ScubaXcursion means waking up steps from the ocean, diving some of the richest and most dynamic reefs in the world, and returning to comfort and community each day. It’s the perfect blend of exhilaration and relaxation — the ideal base for anyone passionate about discovering Aliwal Shoal.NON DIVING FAMILY:  Offer includes Cylinder and Weights rental , Non diving Family member @ R1960 per person sharing MEALS: Offer includes Breakfast 

ScubaXcursion, Aliwal Shoal, Green Lane, 4180, Scottburgh, ZAF
August 15, 2026 +107 More
$257.10
ZAR 4,160.00
Scuba Skills Update

Scuba Skills Update

Scuba Skills Update with ScubaXcursion – Refresh, Rebuild, RediscoverGet back in the water with confidence through the Scuba Skills Update with ScubaXcursion, perfectly based at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel on the stunning KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.Whether you haven’t dived in a while or simply want to fine-tune your buoyancy and core techniques, this structured refresher program is designed to rebuild your comfort, safety awareness, and enjoyment underwater — before heading out to one of South Africa’s most iconic dive sites, Aliwal Shoal. 1. Classroom Session – Reconnect with the FundamentalsYour experience begins with a guided theory session led by a professional instructor. This interactive classroom component covers:Dive safety principles and equipment setupDive planning and buddy proceduresAir management and emergency protocolsUpdates on best practices and local diving conditionsIt’s the perfect opportunity to ask questions, refresh knowledge, and mentally prepare for your return to the ocean. 2. Pool Session – Regain Confidence in a Controlled EnvironmentBefore heading into open water, you’ll enter the pool to practise essential scuba skills in a relaxed, supervised setting.You’ll review:Buoyancy control and weightingMask clearing and regulator recoveryControlled ascents and descentsBasic underwater communicationThis session rebuilds muscle memory and ensures you feel completely comfortable before your ocean dive. 3. Ocean Dive – Explore the Magic of Aliwal ShoalThe highlight of your Skills Update is a guided ocean dive on Aliwal Shoal — one of the world’s premier reef systems.Expect:Dramatic reef topography and swim-throughsVibrant marine life including reef fish, rays, turtles, and seasonal shark sightingsProfessional supervision with small dive groupsA safe, enjoyable reintroduction to open-water divingThis final dive brings everything together — theory, practice, and adventure — in one unforgettable experience. Why Choose ScubaXcursion?Beachfront convenience at Cutty SarkExperienced, safety-focused instructorsIdeal location just minutes from launch to Aliwal ShoalA welcoming environment for both returning and travelling divers

ScubaXcursion, Aliwal Shoal, Green Lane, 4180, Scottburgh, ZAF
August 17, 2026 +123 More
$148.32
ZAR 2,400.00
Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Tucked right on Scottburgh’s golden sands, ScubaXcursion at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and world-class diving into an unforgettable adventure destination. Set just steps from the warm Indian Ocean, this dive centre is perfectly located for anyone wanting to explore one of the world’s most thrilling scuba spots — Aliwal Shoal — without sacrificing easy access to welcoming accommodation and resort amenities. A Hub for Adventure and Comfort Located on the beachfront of the picturesque Premier Resort Cutty Sark Hotel, ScubaXcursion places you literally on the doorstep of your diving adventure. After surfacing from colourful reefs or thrilling shark encounters, you can stroll back to comfortable resort rooms with sweeping ocean views, rest by the pool, or enjoy the hotel’s relaxed coastal atmosphere. Dive the Legendary Aliwal Shoal Aliwal Shoal is consistently ranked among the top dive sites in the world — a marine protected reef system teeming with life, dramatic topography and thrilling encounters beneath the surface. From vibrant coral gardens and dramatic canyons to shipwrecks and high-energy reef walls, each dive offers something new and spectacular. Highlights of diving with ScubaXcursion include: Daily charters from Scottburgh beach out to the Shoal — giving easy access to both the famed northern reefs and the adventurous southern sites. Wildlife encounters with an astonishing range of species from tropical reef fish and turtles to seasonal visitors like humpback whales, dolphins and whale sharks. Shark diving opportunities, with ragged-tooth sharks (“raggies”), blacktip sharks and, in season, even the awe-inspiring tiger shark. Ideal for Divers of All Levels Whether you’re a certified diver making bucket-list dives or a newcomer wanting to try scuba for the first time, ScubaXcursion caters to all. As an internationally recognised SSI Instructor Training Centre, they offer courses from Open Water certification to advanced specialties under experienced guidance — and in one of the most rewarding marine environments on Earth. Easy Access & Local Convenience Conveniently positioned along the scenic KZN South Coast, the resort and dive centre provide shuttle services to and from Durban and King Shaka International Airport — making your dive trip seamless from arrival to water entry. In short: staying at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel and diving with ScubaXcursion means waking up steps from the ocean, diving some of the richest and most dynamic reefs in the world, and returning to comfort and community each day. It’s the perfect blend of exhilaration and relaxation — the ideal base for anyone passionate about discovering Aliwal Shoal.

ScubaXcursion, Aliwal Shoal, Green Lane, 4180, Scottburgh, ZAF
August 15, 2026 +776 More
On Request
Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Aliwal Shoal South Africa - 2 Night 3 Dive

Tucked right on Scottburgh’s golden sands, ScubaXcursion at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and world-class diving into an unforgettable adventure destination. Set just steps from the warm Indian Ocean, this dive centre is perfectly located for anyone wanting to explore one of the world’s most thrilling scuba spots — Aliwal Shoal — without sacrificing easy access to welcoming accommodation and resort amenities. A Hub for Adventure and Comfort Located on the beachfront of the picturesque Premier Resort Cutty Sark Hotel, ScubaXcursion places you literally on the doorstep of your diving adventure. After surfacing from colourful reefs or thrilling shark encounters, you can stroll back to comfortable resort rooms with sweeping ocean views, rest by the pool, or enjoy the hotel’s relaxed coastal atmosphere. Dive the Legendary Aliwal Shoal Aliwal Shoal is consistently ranked among the top dive sites in the world — a marine protected reef system teeming with life, dramatic topography and thrilling encounters beneath the surface. From vibrant coral gardens and dramatic canyons to shipwrecks and high-energy reef walls, each dive offers something new and spectacular. Highlights of diving with ScubaXcursion include: Daily charters from Scottburgh beach out to the Shoal — giving easy access to both the famed northern reefs and the adventurous southern sites. Wildlife encounters with an astonishing range of species from tropical reef fish and turtles to seasonal visitors like humpback whales, dolphins and whale sharks. Shark diving opportunities, with ragged-tooth sharks (“raggies”), blacktip sharks and, in season, even the awe-inspiring tiger shark. Ideal for Divers of All Levels Whether you’re a certified diver making bucket-list dives or a newcomer wanting to try scuba for the first time, ScubaXcursion caters to all. As an internationally recognised SSI Instructor Training Centre, they offer courses from Open Water certification to advanced specialties under experienced guidance — and in one of the most rewarding marine environments on Earth. Easy Access & Local Convenience Conveniently positioned along the scenic KZN South Coast, the resort and dive centre provide shuttle services to and from Durban and King Shaka International Airport — making your dive trip seamless from arrival to water entry. In short: staying at the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel and diving with ScubaXcursion means waking up steps from the ocean, diving some of the richest and most dynamic reefs in the world, and returning to comfort and community each day. It’s the perfect blend of exhilaration and relaxation — the ideal base for anyone passionate about discovering Aliwal Shoal.NON DIVING FAMILY:  Offer includes Cylinder and Weights rental , Non diving Family member @ R1960 per person sharing MEALS: Offer includes Breakfast 

ScubaXcursion, Aliwal Shoal, Green Lane, 4180, Scottburgh, ZAF
August 21, 2026 +12 More
$257.10
ZAR 4,160.00

Dive Activity

Diving in KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal, a diver's paradise, offers diverse underwater experiences. Aliwal Shoal, renowned for its vibrant marine life, features the wreck of the "Produce," an oil tanker providing thrilling exploration opportunities. Protea Banks is another highlight, offering exhilarating shark diving encounters, making it a magnet for adrenaline seekers.

For those who prefer shore diving, Sodwana Bay is a top choice, known for its coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems. Night dives in this area reveal a different underwater world, with nocturnal creatures and bioluminescence. The region balances shore dives with liveaboard options, offering flexibility for divers to explore multiple sites with ease.

Dive Centers

Dive Sites

The best Months to Dive in KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal offers year-round diving opportunities with its sub-tropical climate. Water temperatures range from 22°C in winter to 28°C in summer, providing comfortable conditions for divers. Visibility often exceeds 10 meters but can vary based on local weather and sea conditions.

Diving is possible throughout the year, though summer months (November to March) may bring stronger winds and currents, occasionally affecting dive plans. Winter generally offers calmer seas and clearer waters, making it an ideal time for diving enthusiasts.

Top Wildlife Sightings in KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, especially along its coral reefs. Divers here frequently encounter common reef fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, which are abundant year-round. The Aliwal Shoal and Sodwana Bay are popular diving spots, teeming with vibrant marine life and boasting diverse coral structures.

Seasonal highlights include the annual sardine run, attracting large predators like sharks and dolphins between June and July. During this time, divers can witness ragged-tooth sharks, known locally as "raggies," and various ray species. Loggerhead and leatherback turtles are also a common sight, especially during their nesting seasons from November to January. These encounters not only provide thrilling experiences but also offer insights into the dynamic marine ecosystem of KwaZulu-Natal.

Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 200

Moray Eel

Moray Eel

3.8k Sightings
J
435
F
353
M
264
A
344
M
345
J
210
J
254
A
253
S
267
O
260
N
291
D
568

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3

Sand Tiger Shark

Sand Tiger Shark

2.9k Sightings
J
186
F
67
M
28
A
40
M
240
J
298
J
352
A
317
S
296
O
301
N
359
D
384
Green Turtle

Green Turtle

1.7k Sightings
J
181
F
139
M
170
A
137
M
134
J
133
J
134
A
123
S
81
O
116
N
124
D
252

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 600

Wrasse

Wrasse

1.4k Sightings
J
143
F
128
M
59
A
107
M
181
J
85
J
135
A
108
S
89
O
92
N
122
D
196
Loggerhead Turtle

Loggerhead Turtle

1.4k Sightings
J
157
F
159
M
142
A
168
M
87
J
71
J
99
A
97
S
59
O
60
N
48
D
221
Hawksbill Turtle

Hawksbill Turtle

1k Sightings
J
130
F
99
M
83
A
109
M
77
J
65
J
36
A
47
S
48
O
62
N
95
D
162

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 25

Eagle Ray

Eagle Ray

867 Sightings
J
98
F
105
M
114
A
57
M
46
J
23
J
54
A
29
S
22
O
71
N
84
D
164
Bottlenose Dolphin

Bottlenose Dolphin

828 Sightings
J
104
F
87
M
97
A
58
M
62
J
43
J
55
A
22
S
38
O
52
N
74
D
136

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 300

Octopus

Octopus

605 Sightings
J
74
F
42
M
46
A
40
M
69
J
72
J
27
A
34
S
43
O
38
N
38
D
82
Humpback Whale

Humpback Whale

434 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
1
A
0
M
0
J
40
J
92
A
75
S
102
O
100
N
24
D
0
Bull Shark

Bull Shark

367 Sightings
J
30
F
41
M
30
A
28
M
26
J
22
J
24
A
20
S
12
O
21
N
34
D
79
Reef Manta Ray

Reef Manta Ray

339 Sightings
J
34
F
16
M
12
A
14
M
28
J
35
J
51
A
35
S
44
O
31
N
26
D
13
Giant Oceanic Manta Ray

Giant Oceanic Manta Ray

150 Sightings
J
2
F
8
M
0
A
8
M
18
J
11
J
21
A
20
S
19
O
17
N
13
D
13

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 100

Parrotfish

Parrotfish

4.2k Sightings
J
448
F
394
M
309
A
390
M
365
J
240
J
303
A
253
S
257
O
287
N
313
D
644

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 90

Angelfish

Angelfish

4.2k Sightings
J
425
F
399
M
319
A
355
M
367
J
245
J
281
A
240
S
293
O
320
N
302
D
612

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 130

Butterfly Fish

Butterfly Fish

3.9k Sightings
J
384
F
351
M
271
A
326
M
378
J
205
J
305
A
276
S
261
O
321
N
295
D
543

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 28

Clownfish

Clownfish

3.4k Sightings
J
355
F
282
M
233
A
298
M
310
J
162
J
254
A
221
S
228
O
285
N
293
D
525

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 80

Stingrays

Stingrays

3.3k Sightings
J
429
F
293
M
237
A
223
M
193
J
170
J
150
A
175
S
175
O
238
N
275
D
708

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 250

Grouper/Basslets

Grouper/Basslets

3.1k Sightings
J
334
F
309
M
213
A
280
M
302
J
156
J
206
A
220
S
147
O
195
N
224
D
498

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 40

Triggerfish

Triggerfish

2.8k Sightings
J
300
F
280
M
188
A
248
M
270
J
155
J
184
A
203
S
163
O
183
N
216
D
433

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 85

Surgeonfish

Surgeonfish

2.4k Sightings
J
253
F
243
M
105
A
206
M
264
J
122
J
178
A
153
S
165
O
197
N
185
D
356

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 8

Bannerfish

Bannerfish

2.3k Sightings
J
211
F
195
M
104
A
174
M
256
J
169
J
219
A
188
S
161
O
164
N
197
D
297

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 130

Pufferfish

Pufferfish

2.1k Sightings
J
243
F
201
M
104
A
134
M
220
J
124
J
136
A
114
S
101
O
151
N
189
D
338

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3

Trumpetfish

Trumpetfish

2k Sightings
J
213
F
209
M
130
A
183
M
162
J
136
J
145
A
115
S
116
O
130
N
168
D
289

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 25

Boxfish

Boxfish

2k Sightings
J
233
F
200
M
137
A
158
M
158
J
129
J
136
A
117
S
104
O
144
N
172
D
283

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3000

Nudibranch

Nudibranch

1.6k Sightings
J
224
F
116
M
76
A
66
M
159
J
100
J
111
A
129
S
105
O
84
N
133
D
301

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 250

Scorpionfish

Scorpionfish

1.5k Sightings
J
180
F
151
M
109
A
89
M
125
J
123
J
68
A
80
S
76
O
159
N
142
D
191

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 110

Snapper

Snapper

1.4k Sightings
J
114
F
107
M
63
A
88
M
200
J
78
J
78
A
99
S
88
O
119
N
132
D
232

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 90

Goatfish

Goatfish

1.3k Sightings
J
134
F
77
M
76
A
72
M
205
J
89
J
99
A
103
S
89
O
88
N
130
D
146

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 150

Sweetlips and Grunts

Sweetlips and Grunts

1.3k Sightings
J
131
F
141
M
64
A
60
M
178
J
87
J
118
A
117
S
51
O
77
N
71
D
161

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Soldierfish

Soldierfish

1.2k Sightings
J
95
F
135
M
61
A
76
M
170
J
67
J
74
A
123
S
77
O
84
N
111
D
157

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 350

Damselfish

Damselfish

1.1k Sightings
J
98
F
104
M
38
A
81
M
152
J
80
J
85
A
76
S
54
O
104
N
93
D
129
Whitetip Reef Shark

Whitetip Reef Shark

857 Sightings
J
97
F
130
M
94
A
92
M
64
J
29
J
39
A
48
S
38
O
38
N
62
D
126

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 12

Lionfish

Lionfish

828 Sightings
J
69
F
65
M
59
A
88
M
57
J
87
J
55
A
70
S
63
O
80
N
56
D
79
Oceanic Blacktip Shark

Oceanic Blacktip Shark

602 Sightings
J
76
F
90
M
61
A
44
M
57
J
14
J
46
A
32
S
7
O
18
N
49
D
108

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 80

Emperor

Emperor

524 Sightings
J
27
F
48
M
4
A
15
M
89
J
47
J
40
A
38
S
13
O
58
N
63
D
82

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Squirrelfish

Squirrelfish

370 Sightings
J
23
F
25
M
12
A
26
M
69
J
16
J
21
A
24
S
25
O
46
N
40
D
43

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 40

Jackfish

Jackfish

332 Sightings
J
17
F
15
M
14
A
6
M
84
J
21
J
46
A
38
S
4
O
11
N
27
D
49

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3400

Shrimp

Shrimp

245 Sightings
J
6
F
6
M
2
A
13
M
34
J
23
J
18
A
27
S
19
O
9
N
27
D
61
Blacktip Reef Shark

Blacktip Reef Shark

223 Sightings
J
23
F
16
M
13
A
26
M
23
J
16
J
19
A
9
S
10
O
11
N
22
D
35

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Spiny Lobster

Spiny Lobster

154 Sightings
J
14
F
25
M
1
A
2
M
34
J
35
J
2
A
2
S
13
O
0
N
8
D
18

Curated by Interest

Events by Lifestyle Category

Underwater Beginner