Try dives and guided dives from centres at the V&A Waterfront, Simon’s Town and Gordon’s Bay. A try dive runs theory, a pool dive and an optional sea dive, with all equipment supplied.
A try dive is the standard way in: a short theory session, a pool dive to get used to breathing underwater, and then, if you want it, a dive in the sea. It is an experience rather than a qualification, and no experience is needed to start.
Cape Town has two very different dive coasts. The Atlantic side gives you kelp forest and cold, clear water. False Bay is warmer and softer, with wrecks off Simon’s Town and Gordon’s Bay. Dive centres sit at the V&A Waterfront, in Simon’s Town and at Gordon’s Bay, and move between sites according to the wind.
All the equipment comes with the dive. A medical statement and a liability waiver are signed before you get in, and anyone under eighteen needs a parent or guardian to sign.

Highlights
- Try dives from age ten, no experience needed
- Theory session, pool dive and an optional sea dive
- All dive equipment supplied
- Kelp forest on the Atlantic side, wrecks in False Bay
- A try dive is an experience, not a qualification