Access: Boat Access Only
Experience Level: Suitable for Advanced Scuba Divers with Nitrox certification
Interests: Reefs, Crayfish, Kelp Forests, Pelagic Fish, Stingrays, Sharks
Depth Range: 22 to 35m
Average Dive Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Other Dive Sites in the Area: Bellows Rock / Lusitania Wreck
Dive Site Overview
Rocky Banks is an offshore reef located at the mouth of False Bay, roughly halfway between Cape Point and Hangklip. Formed from sandstone, possibly from the Table Mountain series, the reef is predominantly flat with minimal structure or topography. The southern part of the reef features notable steps, large boulders, and deep gullies, while the northern area is distinguished by a shallow, sprawling kelp forest, primarily composed of split fan kelp.
This site offers a diving experience unlike any other around the Cape Peninsula and False Bay, with visibility that’s often superior to other dive locations. The reef is a riot of color, and because of the depth, artificial light is highly recommended. While the journey to reach Rocky Banks is long, it’s rare to encounter unfavorable conditions, though it's always a possibility.
The top of the reef lies at around 25 meters, and the area shallower than 30 meters covers about two square kilometers, sloping gently down to over 75 meters towards the south. We typically dive in the 25-30 meter range. Rocky Banks, being infrequently dived and largely untouched, is a hidden treasure of Cape Town, boasting remarkable biodiversity and clear visibility. The vast sponges and stunning array of colors reveal a thriving, pristine ecosystem.
Scuba Diving and Navigating Rocky Banks
Because of the distance, we typically conduct two dives at Rocky Banks. On the first dive, we descend on the southern side of the reef, starting at a depth of 30-35 meters and ascending along the slope toward shallower waters. While this area lacks kelp forests, it teems with life. The sponges are adorned with a vibrant array of anemones, and crayfish stroll freely across the sea floor. Unlike inshore dive sites, these crustaceans don't shy away from divers, offering a rare and interactive experience.
For the second dive, we move slightly north, descending on the highest point of the bank, around 22-25 meters deep. This section is home to an impressive kelp forest, teeming with marine life. We've frequently encountered stingrays and gully sharks on every dive here. As you descend and ascend, you pass through layers of fish species in the water column, and we've even been lucky enough to spend safety stops alongside pelagic fish such as yellowfin tuna and yellowtail.
Rocky Banks is a paradise for underwater photographers. A fisheye lens is ideal for capturing the vast kelp forest, abundant fish life, and expansive reef. For macro enthusiasts, the reef is covered with small organisms such as nudibranchs, anemones, sponges, and crustaceans, offering plenty of material for detailed shots.
Recommended Diving Equipment
Given the distance from shore, a Delayed Surface Marker Buoy (DSMB) is mandatory to mark your ascent at the end of each dive. We typically use 15L Nitrox cylinders to maximize bottom time and provide extra air in case of currents. Seasickness medication is recommended, as well as sunscreen, a jacket, and a hat. The boat ride to Rocky Banks takes approximately 1.5 hours, and you can expect to spend 6-7 hours at sea.
Booking Your Dive
Dive Team is one of the few operators offering dives to Rocky Banks. Keep an eye on our schedule via WhatsApp or sign up for our newsletter to secure your spot on this unforgettable dive adventure!
