Explore Rocky Bay/Landers

Rocky Bay and Landers Reef, located on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, offer a unique and mesmerizing diving experience. Accessible by a boat ride from the charming town of Park Rynie, this dive spot is renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. The underwater terrain is nothing short of spectacular, with a dramatic array of pinnacles, boulders, crevices, and gullies. Divers can explore intricate sand patches that intersperse the reefs, providing a beautiful blend of textures and colors beneath the waves.

What sets Landers Reef apart is the sense of discovery it offers. With its deep caves and overhangs, the site invites adventurous exploration and is often regarded as one of South Africa's most picturesque dive locations. Despite its rich natural beauty, the area remains a hidden gem, often undisturbed by the typical crowds of recreational divers. This serenity allows divers to fully immerse themselves in the aquatic splendor, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a curious novice, Rocky Bay and Landers Reef promise an enchanting journey into the marine wonders of South Africa.

Courses and Events

Divemaster

Why Doing Your Dive Master with ScubaXcursion Will Make You the Best Dive Master PossibleBecoming a Dive Master is more than earning a title — it’s about mastering the skills, confidence, and leadership to guide others safely and inspire their love of the underwater world. With ScubaXcursion, your Dive Master journey is built on world-class dive sites, expert instructors, and real-world ocean experience.Based at the beachfront Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark Hotel and diving the legendary Aliwal Shoal, ScubaXcursion gives you the tools, mentorship, and environment to become a confident, skilled, and sought-after Dive Master.1️⃣ Real Ocean Experience in a Premier Dive PlaygroundAliwal Shoal isn’t just beautiful — it’s diverse, challenging, and dynamic:Reef pinnacles, drop-offs, and swim-throughs for advanced navigationDaily encounters with ragged-tooth sharks, turtles, rays, and pelagic speciesSeasonal opportunities to lead dives during the Sardine Run and shark migrationsTraining here ensures you gain real leadership experience in a wide variety of dive conditions, preparing you for any environment worldwide.2️⃣ Mentorship from Experienced, Safety-Focused InstructorsScubaXcursion instructors are passionate professionals who focus on:Developing your safety awareness and decision-making skillsTeaching effective diver supervision and group managementSharing local knowledge about currents, reefs, and marine lifeProviding hands-on guidance in both training dives and real-world situationsSmall group mentorship ensures you receive the attention and feedback necessary to excel.3️⃣ Comprehensive Training Across All Key Dive Master SkillsThe Dive Master program covers:Advanced dive planning and managementRescue skills and emergency responseLeading certified divers and assisting instructorsEnvironmental awareness and marine stewardshipSpecialty skills like deep, drift, and night divingWith ScubaXcursion, you practice these skills in a real-world ocean environment — not just a classroom.4️⃣ Launches from Beachfront ComfortLearning to manage dives and supervise groups requires seamless logistics. With ScubaXcursion:Launch straight from the Premier Beach Resort Cutty Sark HotelAccess multiple Aliwal Shoal sites dailyFocus on training rather than travel stressEverything you need is right where you need it. 5️⃣ Become a Dive Master Who Inspires ConfidenceGraduates from ScubaXcursion leave with more than a certification:✔ Strong leadership and supervision skills ✔ Exceptional dive knowledge in real conditions ✔ Confidence guiding divers of all levels ✔ Experience in one of the world’s top reefs and unique marine eventsBy training in this professional, ocean-focused environment, you’ll emerge as a Dive Master capable of leading dives anywhere in the world — confident, competent, and respected.

30 March +193 More
€557.69
ZAR 11,000.00

Advanced Open Water Diver

Aliwal Shoal – The Ultimate Destination for Your Advanced Open Water Diver CourseIf you’re ready to take your diving to the next level, there’s no better classroom than Aliwal Shoal. Located off South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, this world-renowned reef system offers the perfect combination of adventure, skill development, and unforgettable marine encounters — making it an exceptional place to complete your Advanced Open Water Diver Course. Why Aliwal Shoal is Perfect for Advanced Training Depth & Topography for Real ProgressionAdvanced training requires varied depth profiles, navigation challenges, and diverse underwater environments — and Aliwal Shoal delivers it all.Dramatic reef pinnacles and drop-offsSand channels ideal for navigation exercisesWreck dives such as the MV ProduceDepth ranges perfect for deep dive trainingInstead of practising skills in a simple reef setting, you’ll apply them in dynamic, real-world dive conditions. Incredible Marine Life EncountersTraining here doesn’t feel like “just a course.” It feels like an expedition.Depending on the season, you may encounter:Ragged-tooth sharks (Raggies)Blacktip sharksRays and turtlesLarge game fishSeasonal pelagic activityLearning advanced buoyancy, navigation, and situational awareness while surrounded by big marine life builds true confidence and composure underwater. Ideal Conditions for Skill DevelopmentAliwal Shoal offers:Warm Indian Ocean temperaturesGood visibility throughout much of the yearLaunch access from the South CoastA mix of sheltered and exposed sitesThese conditions allow instructors to tailor dives to your comfort level while progressively challenging your abilities. More Than Certification – Real ExperienceAn Advanced Open Water course at Aliwal Shoal typically includes:Deep DiveUnderwater NavigationPeak Performance BuoyancyDrift or Shark DiveWreck or Photography specialty diveHere, you’re not just ticking off skills — you’re building experience in one of the most exciting dive environments in the world. A Destination That Feels Like an Adventure HolidayCompleting your Advanced Open Water at Aliwal Shoal means:Diving one of the world’s top reef systemsGaining confidence in bigger water conditionsExperiencing pelagic marine lifeTraining in a marine protected areaIt’s the difference between completing a course… and completing it somewhere extraordinary.

29 March +217 More
€324.48
ZAR 6,400.00

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

30 March +183 More
€121.68
ZAR 2,400.00

Dive Activity

Diving in Rocky Bay/Landers

Rocky Bay and Landers offer some of the most thrilling dive experiences for enthusiasts. Among the top dive sites is the famous wreck dive at the "Emerald Ship", where divers can explore a sunken vessel teeming with marine life. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the wreck are home to colorful fish and occasional visits from dolphins, making it a must-see for underwater photographers. For those who prefer shore dives, "Turtle Cove" presents an excellent option. Known for its gentle sloping reefs, this site is ideal for observing turtles and tropical fish. The area is also popular for night dives, where divers can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of bioluminescent plankton. Both liveaboard and shore dive options are available, providing flexibility for travelers keen to explore the underwater wonders of Rocky Bay and Landers.

Top Wildlife Sightings in Rocky Bay/Landers

Rocky Bay/Landers is a vibrant marine habitat that attracts divers with its diverse reef life. Common reef fish include parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish, which can be seen year-round. The bay's rocky structures provide shelter for these species, making them a frequent sight for divers.

Seasonal highlights in Rocky Bay/Landers include sightings of graceful sea turtles, predominantly during the warmer months when they come to feed and nest. Reef sharks and rays are also notable visitors; although less common, they are typically encountered during late spring and summer. These larger species enrich the dive experience, offering thrilling encounters for those visiting at the right time of year.

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: 200

Moray Eel

104 Sightings
J
16
F
28
M
8
A
6
M
7
J
8
J
1
A
6
S
10
O
5
N
7
D
2

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

Total number of species: 3

Sand Tiger Shark

74 Sightings
J
4
F
0
M
1
A
0
M
2
J
5
J
8
A
11
S
7
O
16
N
14
D
6

Green Turtle

56 Sightings
J
8
F
6
M
1
A
4
M
0
J
7
J
5
A
3
S
6
O
3
N
1
D
12

Loggerhead Turtle

50 Sightings
J
2
F
13
M
2
A
6
M
3
J
6
J
0
A
2
S
3
O
2
N
0
D
11

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

Total number of species: 600

Wrasse

45 Sightings
J
2
F
14
M
1
A
0
M
2
J
12
J
0
A
4
S
3
O
4
N
1
D
2

Humpback Whale

25 Sightings
J
0
F
1
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
7
J
9
A
5
S
3
O
0
N
0
D
0

Hawksbill Turtle

21 Sightings
J
1
F
7
M
0
A
0
M
2
J
1
J
1
A
2
S
4
O
0
N
0
D
3

Bottlenose Dolphin

17 Sightings
J
0
F
5
M
9
A
0
M
0
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
0
N
3
D
0

Bull Shark

13 Sightings
J
0
F
5
M
3
A
0
M
0
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
0
N
2
D
3

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

Total number of species: 25

Eagle Ray

10 Sightings
J
0
F
4
M
0
A
3
M
0
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
2
N
0
D
1

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

Total number of species: 250

Grouper/Basslets

186 Sightings
J
15
F
39
M
14
A
15
M
9
J
12
J
12
A
15
S
3
O
20
N
9
D
23

Oceanic Blacktip Shark

158 Sightings
J
21
F
23
M
24
A
15
M
9
J
4
J
13
A
14
S
5
O
4
N
12
D
14

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

Total number of species: 100

Parrotfish

129 Sightings
J
10
F
34
M
11
A
11
M
7
J
11
J
9
A
5
S
4
O
11
N
6
D
10

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

Total number of species: 90

Angelfish

112 Sightings
J
8
F
29
M
11
A
6
M
6
J
11
J
6
A
4
S
5
O
15
N
4
D
7

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

Total number of species: 130

Butterfly Fish

100 Sightings
J
8
F
25
M
10
A
3
M
4
J
14
J
10
A
8
S
2
O
13
N
3
D
0

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

Total number of species: 3

Trumpetfish

96 Sightings
J
11
F
27
M
11
A
4
M
1
J
9
J
7
A
9
S
3
O
5
N
1
D
8

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

Total number of species: 25

Boxfish

93 Sightings
J
9
F
22
M
11
A
12
M
2
J
8
J
4
A
9
S
1
O
5
N
3
D
7

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

Total number of species: 250

Scorpionfish

77 Sightings
J
11
F
25
M
2
A
3
M
7
J
4
J
8
A
4
S
4
O
5
N
4
D
0

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

Total number of species: 40

Triggerfish

70 Sightings
J
2
F
29
M
9
A
10
M
2
J
10
J
0
A
0
S
1
O
6
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 80

Stingrays

66 Sightings
J
6
F
10
M
12
A
0
M
0
J
2
J
0
A
5
S
4
O
0
N
7
D
20

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

Total number of species: 3000

Nudibranch

64 Sightings
J
1
F
23
M
12
A
3
M
3
J
9
J
0
A
5
S
3
O
4
N
0
D
1

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

Total number of species: 130

Pufferfish

61 Sightings
J
10
F
19
M
3
A
3
M
1
J
10
J
0
A
6
S
3
O
4
N
1
D
1

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

Total number of species: 12

Lionfish

57 Sightings
J
1
F
14
M
8
A
0
M
5
J
7
J
6
A
6
S
3
O
7
N
0
D
0

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

Total number of species: 8

Bannerfish

54 Sightings
J
2
F
12
M
6
A
0
M
7
J
10
J
5
A
9
S
1
O
0
N
1
D
1

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

Total number of species: 85

Surgeonfish

46 Sightings
J
3
F
21
M
1
A
0
M
2
J
7
J
4
A
0
S
1
O
6
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 28

Clownfish

46 Sightings
J
11
F
11
M
0
A
4
M
1
J
5
J
4
A
1
S
1
O
4
N
4
D
0

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

Total number of species: 60

Soldierfish

35 Sightings
J
3
F
21
M
0
A
0
M
2
J
4
J
0
A
3
S
0
O
0
N
2
D
0

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

Total number of species: 150

Sweetlips and Grunts

29 Sightings
J
3
F
6
M
0
A
0
M
2
J
6
J
1
A
4
S
3
O
1
N
1
D
2

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

Total number of species: 350

Damselfish

26 Sightings
J
1
F
10
M
1
A
0
M
1
J
7
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
1
N
5
D
0

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

Total number of species: 110

Snapper

24 Sightings
J
3
F
8
M
1
A
0
M
3
J
6
J
0
A
1
S
1
O
0
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 90

Goatfish

24 Sightings
J
2
F
10
M
1
A
0
M
1
J
3
J
0
A
3
S
0
O
1
N
2
D
1

Blacktip Reef Shark

21 Sightings
J
6
F
5
M
2
A
0
M
2
J
4
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
1
N
0
D
1

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

Total number of species: 40

Jackfish

20 Sightings
J
1
F
0
M
8
A
0
M
3
J
1
J
1
A
1
S
2
O
2
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 60

Squirrelfish

17 Sightings
J
0
F
11
M
1
A
0
M
1
J
3
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
0
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 60

Spiny Lobster

13 Sightings
J
0
F
9
M
0
A
0
M
1
J
2
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
0
N
1
D
0

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

Total number of species: 3

Cornetfish

10 Sightings
J
0
F
7
M
0
A
0
M
1
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
2
O
0
N
0
D
0

The best Months to dive in Rocky Bay/Landers

Rocky Bay/Landers offers year-round diving opportunities, with each season bringing unique conditions. Water temperatures range from 18°C–24°C/64°F–75°F in the summer, cooling to 12°C–16°C/54°F–61°F in the winter, providing a comfortable environment for divers with suitable gear. Visibility is generally good, ranging from 10 to 30 meters/33 to 98 feet, though it can be reduced during stormy weather.

While diving is possible throughout the year, the best conditions are typically found from late spring to early autumn. During this time, calm seas and mild currents enhance the diving experience. Winter months may bring stronger winds and currents, making some sites less accessible. Overall, careful planning and monitoring of local weather forecasts are recommended for optimal diving experiences in Rocky Bay/Landers.

Dive Centers

Dive Sites