Scubaco Diving & Travel

Located in Umkomaas, Scubaco Diving & Travel operates as a specialist charter service focused on the unique marine environment of the Aliwal Shoal. This area is not a traditional coral reef, but a fossilised sandstone dune that has created a complex underwater landscape of pinnacles, caves, and swim-throughs.

The centre has established itself as a premier destination for divers seeking large pelagics and shark interactions. Whether you are looking for baited shark dives or exploring the historic wrecks of the coast, the operation is geared towards a high standard of service and safety.

The operation is led by founder Tamara McArthur, a RAID Course Director, ensuring a high level of professional instruction. The team consists of certified professionals who are deeply committed to marine conservation and ocean safety.

As a boutique centre, the focus is on personalised service for a discerning clientele, including underwater photographers. They also manage an annual expedition to the Eastern Cape to participate in the Sardine Run.

The centre provides a comprehensive range of training, from entry-level courses like the PADI Open Water Diver to professional pathways. They offer the full spectrum of PADI certifications, including Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster.

For those looking to enter the professional ranks, the centre runs the Instructor Development Programme (IDC) and RAID Dive Master courses. They also offer specialised training such as the Master Rescue Diver and advanced exploration courses like Explorer 30 and Advanced 35.

The centre operates 8m semi-rigid boats, each powered by twin 100Hp Suzuki engines to ensure reliability and performance. These vessels are well-equipped for the conditions found around the Shoal.

Safety is a priority on board, with emergency oxygen and trauma kits always available. The boats are configured to handle the drift dives and excursions that characterise the Aliwal Shoal area.

The shore-based facilities include a well-stocked dive centre and a fully equipped classroom for theoretical training. For those looking to stay on-site, the '32 on Harvey' guest house offers single, double, and triple room options, with packages available that combine accommodation and diving.

On the technical side, the centre uses a Coltri compressor and maintains air banks at 300 bars. High-quality rental kit is available, including cylinders in 10l, 12l, and 15l volumes.

The Aliwal Shoal is a magnet for large pelagics. You can expect to see various sharks, including Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), blacktip sharks, and hammerhead sharks during their summer migration. During the winter months from July to November, ragged-tooth sharks are frequently found around Raggies Cave.

In the blue, you may encounter Manta ray (Mobula alfredi), tuna (Thunnus), and various species of rays, including eagle rays and marbled rays. Humpback whales and dolphins are also seen in these waters seasonally.

The reef structure itself is adorned with a variety of soft corals, including fire coral, whip coral, and sea fans. These provide a habitat for colourful reef fish such as snappers, butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish.

For macro enthusiasts, the sandy areas and crevices hold a wealth of life. You will find a diverse range of nudibranchs, various species of skates, and Spiny lobster (Palinuridae). The sandy floors, such as at North Sands, are also excellent for spotting guitarfish sharks and round stingrays.

Diving in this region typically involves drift dives, where the current carries you along the reef structure. At certain sites, such as The Produce, currents can become quite strong, requiring good buoyancy control.

Visibility and conditions can be influenced by river runoff from the Umkomaas River, particularly after heavy rains, which can affect sites closest to the shore like The Nebo.