Neptune's Divers & Cruises

Neptune's Divers & Cruises is a PADI 5 Star Dive Resort situated in the New Harbour of Hermanus, South Africa. Established in 2012, the centre has become a key player in the local diving community, known particularly for its discovery and exclusive permit to dive the Neptune X, a historic shipwreck from the late 19th century.

The centre provides a gateway to the diverse marine ecosystems of Walker Bay, ranging from shallow kelp forests to deeper reef systems. Whether you are looking for a guided exploration of local wrecks or a sunset cruise, the operation is built around a professional approach to South African diving.

The team at Neptune's Divers & Cruises is composed of highly qualified instructors and divemasters, focusing heavily on safety and professional standards. They promote dive safety through their involvement with the Divers Alert Network (DAN) and encourage all divers to maintain membership.

For those looking to move beyond recreational diving, the centre runs a 'Zero to Hero Marine Career Program'. This initiative is designed to train the next generation of diving professionals through structured pathways.

The centre provides a comprehensive range of PADI training, covering every level from entry-level to professional certifications. You can complete your PADI Open Water Diver course or progress through the Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver programmes.

For those pursuing a career in the industry, Neptune's Divers & Cruises offers PADI Divemaster training. They also provide essential safety courses, including Emergency First Response, Oxygen Provider, and the Reactivate Course to ensure your skills remain sharp.

The centre operates two distinct vessels to suit different types of excursions. The Salacia is an 8m semi-rigid boat specifically dedicated to dive trips and adventure tours, making it ideal for reaching local sites efficiently.

The Ocean Quest is a 36ft catamaran used for longer cruises and certain diving expeditions. It offers a stable platform for divers and passengers alike, providing a comfortable base for exploring the coastline.

Full equipment rental is available for divers who prefer not to travel with their own kit. This includes all the necessary components for a complete dive rig.

Onshore, the centre is well-equipped to handle daily operations from the New Harbour, ensuring that divers have access to the essential facilities required for a smooth transition from boat to shore.

The marine life in Walker Bay is diverse, with the kelp forests providing a sanctuary for macro species, pygmy sharks, and shy sharks. You will often find colourful fish and various coral species decorating the reef structures.

Large pelagics and charismatic mammals are a highlight of the region. Cape fur seals are a regular presence on the reefs, and African penguins can be spotted in the area. During the season from June to October, Southern right whales are frequently seen in the bay.

For those interested in smaller inhabitants, the area supports a variety of macro life and interesting crustaceans, providing plenty of detail for underwater photographers.

Diving in Hermanus is possible year-round, though navigation within certain parts of Walker Bay is restricted from June to the end of November due to the whale season.

Local conditions vary depending on whether you are diving the sheltered kelp forests or the more open reef systems. It is always best to coordinate your dive plan with the crew based on the day's specific swell and current conditions.