Scuba diving at The Aliwal Shoal,
Africa
has become internationally recognized as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. Tourism in Umkomaas and Aliwal Shoal has grown over the last few years as more divers flock to Umkomaas to experience the incredible attractions that aliwal shoal has to offer.
With the growth in the number of service providers on Aliwal Shoal, it can become confusing to search for information necessary to plan for your stay, book your dives and equipment, and find accommodation that is perfect for you.
The Aliwal Shoal is a rocky reef which is the remains of an ancient sand dune approximately 5km off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The reef plays host to many kinds of hard and soft corals and a variety of tropical and subtropical fish species. Aliwal Shoal was named after the sinking of the 3 Masted vessel "Aliwal", Captained by James Anderson in 1849 (source: Aliwal Shoal Tourism).
There are two wrecks near the reef that are prime sites for divers. The Norwegian bulk carrier called the "Produce" which sank in 1974 and the Nebo which sank in 1884. Aliwal Shoal has some stunning marine life which explains its popularity with divers. The Shoal is know especially for its abundance of Grey nurse sharks (known locally as ragged tooth sharks or "raggies") between August and November when the sharks congregate there to mate.
Aliwal Shoal are well served by a number of dive centers located in the nearest town of Umkomaas.
