Mozambique Scuba

Back to Basics Adventures is situated in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique, a region renowned for its diverse marine ecosystems and significant pelagic presence. The centre is run by Rupert Cornelius, a shark specialist and skipper, and Jenny Stromvoll, a marine life and nudibranch expert. Their approach is built around a deep connection to the natural environment and a commitment to personalised, small-group diving.

Operating with both PADI and RAID affiliations, the centre caters to a wide range of experience levels. Whether you are looking for your first breath underwater or seeking specialised shark encounters, the focus remains on high-quality instruction and environmental awareness. The centre is ideally positioned for those wanting to explore the reefs and the seasonal migrations of larger marine species.

The centre is led by a husband-and-wife team with over 13 years of experience in the industry. Rupert Cornelius brings extensive knowledge as a shark specialist and dive instructor, managing the boat operations and technical aspects of the dives. Jenny Stromvoll provides deep expertise in reef monitoring and marine life, particularly regarding nudibranchs and reef ecology.

Their teaching philosophy emphasises a return to the basics of adventure, focusing on individual attention rather than mass tourism. This allows for a more tailored approach to training and exploration, ensuring that every diver, regardless of their certification level, can engage meaningfully with the local marine environment.

Back to Basics Adventures offers a comprehensive range of training through PADI and RAID. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or Bubblemaker programmes, progressing through to Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications.

For more experienced divers, the centre provides specialised training including Rescue Diver, Divemaster, Nitrox, and Deep Diver courses. They also offer niche skills training such as Peak Performance Buoyancy, Night Dive, Search and Recovery, and Underwater Photography, as well as the EcoDiver programme.

The centre operates an 8m rubber duck boat that can accommodate up to 14 divers. This vessel is used for reef exploration, unbaited shark dives, and snorkeling trips. Nitrox is available for those who require it on their excursions.

The shore-based facilities are designed to support both local and visiting divers. On-site, you will find a dive shop, kit storage, and dedicated areas for wetsuit drying and camera washing. The centre also provides hot showers and rinsing facilities for your gear.

For those who prefer not to travel with their own equipment, a full range of rental kit is available. Safety is a priority, with emergency oxygen and first aid equipment maintained on-site to ensure a secure diving environment.

The area is a significant site for pelagic encounters. From November to April, you can expect to see Bull sharks, Tiger sharks, and Silvertip sharks at the Pinnacles reef. Humpback whales are also present during their migration from July to November.

Beyond the large predators, the reefs are teeming with a diverse array of permanent residents. You will regularly encounter stingrays, large groupers, turtles, eels, and various species of reef sharks. Dolphins, including Bottlenose dolphins, are also frequently sighted in the area.

For those interested in macro life and smaller inhabitants, the reefs offer incredible variety. The waters host a range of nudibranchs, seahorses, and various species of tropical fish. The complex coral structures provide a home for many smaller creatures, making it a rewarding environment for underwater photographers.

Reef diving is accessible year-round in Ponta do Ouro. For those specifically targeting shark encounters, the period from November to April is the most reliable time to visit the Pinnacles reef.

Visibility in the area is generally excellent, frequently ranging between 15 and 30 metres, allowing for clear viewing of the reef structures and passing pelagics.