Dive in Knysna

Diving in Knysna

There are a few dive sites in Knysna but the weather can be very rough at times and with strong currents then it’s recommended for advanced divers only.  The water temp ranges from 15-23 degrees and visibility is only between 5-15m but there are some interesting sites to see.

The best wreck dive in the area is the Paquita, sunk in 1903 and still in great condition, you can see seahorses, nudibranchs, black tails, two tone finger fin and steen bras.  There are only certain times in the day you can dive this site due to strong currents so be sure to check this with your dive centre.  

Dagleish Bank is a large pinnicle covered in corals and home to many big gamefish and rock cod.  Not many people visit here so it’s unspoilt and free of other divers.  East Cape Reef has lots of overhangs and caverns to explore and you can spend a few dives on this reef to fully appreciate it.  Bruce se Bank is another dive site in the area.

Thenson’s Jetty is the only real dive site for beginner divers.  If you can look past the rubbish in the bay then finding the seahorses that live under the jetty makes it all worthwhile.  

If drift diving is your thing then you’re going to love the fly dives along the reef but be sure to advise the dive centre of your experience level as a lot of the dives can be very difficult and dangerous if you haven’t dived in these conditions before.

(By Kelly Luckman)

Travel to Knysna

One of the most popular destinations on the Garden Route, Knysna is a quaint little town located in between lush green forests and a beautiful estuary.  You can choose to relax at Knysna Heads with stunning views over the ocean and sandstone cliffs or explore the surrounding area, with adventures of all kinds suitable for any age.

There are no direct flights to Knysna.  The best way to get there is to fly into George, hire a car and drive 70km in the direction or Port Elizabeth (PE) or fly into PE and drive 280km in the direction of Cape Town.  Backpackers can jump on the hop on, hop off bus that runs from Cape Town to PE for a cheaper option.

There are many accommodation options, most of them being lodges.  You can get a double room for as little as $40 a night for two people or a five star lodge with gorgeous sea views for less than $80.  There are backpacker options as well with dorms from $15.

Activities are abundant in the area.  If relaxing is your thing head for one of the nearby beaches or local cafes and take in the almost hippy atmosphere.  There’s an elephant park nearby or hike/cycle through the amazing forest.  The sunset over the estuary is a fabulous site while sipping on one of the local beers.  

Visit one of the local townships and take in the culture and learn about the local arts and craft.  Try your hand at golf or painting, canoe in the lagoon, horse ride, explore the local nature reserve or you can even pan for gold in one of the forest streams.

(By Kelly Luckman)