Gordon’s Bay Side of False Bay and Cape Hangklip
False Bay, pointing due south, is a fascinating region with unique diving conditions and a rich history. This bay, influenced by its proximity to the Indian Ocean, offers a blend of marine life and historical dive sites that make it a diver’s paradise. On This page we explore the Gordon’s Bay side of False Bay and Cape Hangklip, focusing on the distinctive features and diving opportunities in this area.
Unique Oceanographic Influence
False Bay’s location close to the Indian Ocean means it is influenced by the warm currents flowing down from Mozambique. These currents can affect the temperature of the bay, often making it warmer than the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. This warmth supports a variety of fish species that are typically not found in the colder Atlantic waters. It’s not uncommon to encounter pineapple fish, double-sashed butterfly fish, and even marlin in False Bay, species that owe their presence to the currents that bring fish eggs and juvenile fish into the bay.
Marine Biodiversity
The bay’s warmer waters create a unique ecosystem where tropical and subtropical species thrive. Over time, these fish have become “local” inhabitants, adding to the bay’s biodiversity. On the other hand, the Atlantic Seaboard does not host these species, highlighting the stark contrast between the two adjacent regions. This rich marine biodiversity makes False Bay a compelling destination for divers seeking to explore diverse underwater life.
Diving Conditions and Sites
The Gordon’s Bay side of False Bay, extending to Cape Hangklip, offers a range of diving opportunities. This side of the bay faces west, so the weather and water clarity conditions are similar to those of the Atlantic Seaboard. Southeastern and eastern winds typically clear this side of the bay, providing good visibility for diving. However, the presence of the Steenbras River and other smaller streams and rivers, like Rooiels, contributes silt to the water. This silt can be easily agitated by swells, significantly reducing visibility.
The terrain in this area is also quite steep, with dive sites that drop off quickly. This can make diving here dangerous, especially when swells pick up. Despite these challenges, sites like Pringle Bay and Cape Hangklip are popular among spearfishermen and divers due to their unique underwater landscapes and diverse fish life. The same weather conditions that clear the water on the Atlantic Seaboard also apply here, but divers must also consider the impact of silt, swells, and rain on visibility.
Historical Significance
False Bay has been historically significant, serving as an important port during wars and a refuge for ships during storms. The bay is home to numerous shipwrecks, including Spanish, Portuguese, and French vessels, which sank during tumultuous weather. These wrecks provide intriguing dive sites that attract divers from all over, eager to explore the underwater remnants of history.
Personal Experience and Mapping
Having spent many years diving in this region, I have mapped several underwater sites in Rooiels, where the depth increases rapidly. Gordon’s Bay holds a special place for me, as Crosses was one of the first dive sites I explored after moving to Cape Town in 2007. The area around Cape Hangklip and Pringle Bay remains a favorite for its unique diving conditions and the variety of marine life it offers.
For more information on False Bay’s history and its significance, visit the False Bay Wikipedia page.
In conclusion, the Gordon’s Bay side of False Bay and Cape Hangklip offer unique and challenging diving experiences. With their rich marine biodiversity, historical shipwrecks, and distinct underwater landscapes, these areas are a must-visit for any diving enthusiast looking to explore the best of what False Bay has to offer.
