When you think about scuba diving, usually the first image that comes to mind is diving in warm tropical waters, hovering over coral reefs. But have you considered there might be an even more colourful dive site out there, teaming with life?

Along Cape Town’s shores, there lives a world beneath the waves. From the surface, kelp forests just look like floating, slimy plants, but once you submerge underneath, you will see an alien landscape come to life. In these kelp forests live over 14 000 documented species of marine animals.

Cape Town is one of the largest cities in South Africa and among the most multicultural in the world, uniquely situated on the tip of Southern Africa between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The Atlantic brings cold water up from the icy poles; the Indian brings warm water down from the Mozambique channel. The meeting of these warm and cold water masses has created a vast diversity of life underwater.

Cape Town is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. From majestic whales and playful seals to colourful fish and intricate invertebrates, the ocean here is a wonderland waiting to be explored, and we’ve only touched on the most common of countless creatures in these waters.

Freediving, snorkelling and scuba diving are all wonderful ways in, whatever your experience. If you’re new to the underwater world, start with snorkelling or a guided dive.

But remember, the ocean is a fragile ecosystem that needs our protection. Say no to single-use plastic, walk or cycle where you can, and switch off the lights behind you. Every bit counts.

So grab your wetsuit and dive into the fascinating world of Cape Town’s marine life. You never know what you might meet beneath the waves.