We are proud to introduce you to our team of dive professionals, who are eager and prepared to help you achieve your diving goals. Whether you need assistance with finding the right equipment, going on a guided dive, or advancing your skills through courses, we are dedicated to providing you with the best personalized experience possible.
Come meet the team and continue (or start) your diving journey!
Founder of Dive Team
Jan de Bruyn is the driving force behind Dive Team, combining his extensive expertise with a genuine passion for the ocean. As a SAMSA Category B Commercial Skipper, PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and Commercial Diver, Jan brings a wealth of knowledge to every dive. His technical skills as a certified service technician for most major equipment brands ensure that everything runs smoothly both above and below the water.
Jan’s love for the sea goes beyond diving. He is deeply committed to marine conservation and has played a pivotal role in designing the Sharksafe Barrier, a groundbreaking solution for protecting both sharks and humans. His involvement in several shark documentaries along the South African coast showcases his dedication to educating others about these incredible creatures.
Exploring new areas and discovering hidden dive sites are what truly excite Jan. With his extensive knowledge of Cape Town’s diverse dive locations, he guarantees that every dive with Dive Team is an unforgettable adventure.
PADI Dive Instructor and Dive Guide
Basile Boyazis brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to Dive Team. A former Marine in the South African Defense Force, Basile has worked across Central Africa and America, gaining a deep appreciation for the wild. As a wildlife guide who speaks French, English, and Afrikaans, he’s known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
After a 20-year sabbatical from diving, Basile rediscovered his passion for the underwater world and committed himself to becoming an instructor. His greatest joy comes from guiding people through their underwater adventures and teaching them how to dive and explore with confidence. More than just an instructor, Basile loves making new friends and often stays in touch with his students, eager to hear about their diving journeys.
Having been with Dive Team since its inception, Basile is a cornerstone of the company, and his contributions have been invaluable to its success.
Skipper and Divemaster
Neal Wills embodies dedication and passion in every aspect of his role at Dive Team. Starting as an open water diver, Neal quickly climbed the ranks to become a PADI Divemaster. As a SAMSA Category B Skipper, he takes immense pride in maintaining the boat to the highest standards, ensuring every dive is smooth and safe. Whether on or in the water, Neal's enthusiasm is infectious.
Known for his professionalism, Neal is always early, presentable, and committed to the environment he works in. His skills extend beyond the water; he is highly proficient in the workshop, servicing and repairing a wide range of diving equipment.
With his sights set on becoming a PADI Instructor and potentially running his own dive center one day, Neal's future in the diving world is bright.
PADI Instructor and Admin Coordinator
Amber Mcleod is the newest member of the Dive Team, bringing fresh energy and expertise to the crew. As a PADI Instructor, Amber is passionate about teaching diving and ensuring that every student has a fun and safe experience. Beyond her instructing duties, she plays a crucial role in managing bookings and administrative tasks, making sure that all plans run smoothly.
Amber's previous experience as a dive instructor at the Two Oceans Aquarium gave her unique insights into marine life, where she even got to know the sharks in the tank personally. Her exceptional organizational skills and love for learning new things make her an invaluable asset to the team.
Amber shares the Dive Team’s adventurous spirit, and while she’s serious about her teaching, she knows how to keep things enjoyable. She’s also aiming to become a skipper in the near future, further expanding her role within the team.
Marine Biologist, Shark Conservationist and Educator
Dr. Sara Andreotti is a renowned Marine Biologist with a passion for shark conservation. She is best known for her work on the Sharksafe Barrier, a project aimed at protecting both sharks and humans, as well as her in-depth research on great white shark populations. Affiliated with Stellenbosch University, Dr. Andreotti is dedicated to finding non-lethal solutions for human-shark coexistence.
In addition to her research, Dr. Andreotti runs a marine biology internship program called SharkWise, which supports Master’s and PhD students in conducting vital research. Dive Team often provides logistical support for this program, furthering our commitment to marine conservation and education.
On busy days, Dr. Andreotti can be found assisting in the shop, eagerly sharing her expertise on sharks. Fluent in Italian, Spanish, and English, she also helps with translations, making her an invaluable resource for both the team and international guests.
Dr. Andreotti’s ultimate goal is to resolve the shark-human conflict, ensuring a future where both can thrive together.
PADI Scuba and Freediving Instructor
Danie de Kock is a dedicated part-time PADI Scuba and Freedive Instructor with Dive Team. Although he works in construction, his true passion lies in the ocean. Recognized as one of the best freediving instructors in Cape Town, Danie is known for his calm demeanor in the water and his commitment to helping every student reach their goals. Whether he's teaching or practicing depth at Blue Rock Quarry, Danie is always deeply connected to the sea.
Few people know the dive spots at Cape Point as well as Danie, making him an invaluable resource for those looking to explore the area. In addition to his freediving expertise, Danie runs a spearfishing orientation, guiding new divers on the risks, safety practices, and sustainable approaches to spearfishing.
Regrettably, seal dives are not available currently as a result of a rabies outbreak impacting the seal populations in South Africa.
Research into the cause of this is ongoing, but until the situation is resolved we have decided to go for the safer option and avoid seal colonies for the time being.
