Cathedral (Aliwal Shoal)

Best time to dive

May to July; June to November

What you might see

• Bull sharkPeak season
• Hammerhead sharkLikely

Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.

Certification & difficulty

Advanced Open Water - advanced conditions (currents/depth); dive within your training.

Snorkelling

Not a snorkel site - Not typically viable - boat-only deeper reef/cavern feature, not marketed as a snorkel site

Safety notes

Strong shoal currents, rough surf-zone boat launches, gully/overhang terrain requiring buoyancy control, general shark-dive etiquette

Permits & fees

Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area annual diving permit required (obtainable via post office or dive operator); exact current fee not confirmed - VERIFY

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Location

Nearest hub: Umkomaas