Key Summary
- Overview of Pappiesbank
- Detailed description of the site and its conditions
- Types of fish species and marine life commonly found
- Best times and conditions for diving
- Safety tips and considerations
- Gear recommendations
- Personal anecdotes
Pappiesbank in Cape Point
Pappies Bank is a dive site located on the Atlantic seaboard of Cape Point. Favored by seasoned spearfishers targeting Galjoen, this site offers a unique and rewarding diving experience. The site’s location within Cape Point National Park adds to its allure, with the drive through the park providing a scenic and wildlife-rich journey.
Getting to Pappiesbank
To access Pappies Bank, you would need to enter Cape Point, Stopping at the entry booms, you will need either a level three Activity card, or you would need to pay for entry at the gate. You should mention that you are FISHING, to stay within the law. After entering the park, continue the main road until it splits with a sign for “Cape of Good Hope.” This is beyond Buffelsbaai and Platboom Bay, which serve as useful reference points. Continue driving, being cautious of wildlife such as ostriches, eland antelope, and baboons. After passing Neptune’s Diary, the next cobble-covered beach is Pappies Bank. You can park safely off the road and kit up at your car before heading to the beach.
Entering Pappiesbank
The entry at Pappies Bank involves navigating over cobbles and round boulders, which can be challenging. Exercise caution as the rolling stones can cause slips and falls. Find a suitable entry point on the beach and make your way into the water.
Diving Conditions at Pappiesbank
Pappies Bank is a shallow dive site characterized by thick kelp forests. The best diving conditions are during the summer when the southeasterly winds clear the water. Water temperatures range between 11 and 18°C, and the depths vary from 4 to 12 meters.
- Shallow Areas: The site features shallow waters with abundant kelp, providing a habitat for various marine species.
- Mid-Depth Areas: There is a notable shallow point in the middle of the site with a prominent rock sticking out.
- Deeper Areas: The depths extend to 12 meters, where the kelp thins out, offering clearer views of the marine life.
Marine Life in Pappiesbank
The marine life at Pappies Bank is typical of the Atlantic seaboard, with a focus on:
- Cape Hottentot: Frequently spotted in the area. Minimum size: 22cm. Daily limit 10
- Galjoen: A prime target for spearfishers. Legal minimum size: 35 cm. Daily limit: 2 per person.
- Shy Sharks: Occasionally seen
- Pajama Sharks: Adds to the diversity of shark species
Despite the limited variety of species compared to other sites, the marine life at Pappies Bank is abundant and provides a rewarding experience for divers.
Best Times and Conditions for Diving
Summer months offer the best diving conditions at Pappies Bank. The southeasterly winds clear the water, improving visibility. Average water temperatures range between 11 and 18 degrees, making a 5mm wetsuit ideal for comfort. The kelp can be dense, but persistence is rewarded with encounters with Galjoen and other species.
Safety Tips for Diving at Pappiesbank
- Dive with a Buddy: Never dive alone. Always dive with a partner to ensure safety and provide assistance if needed.
- Check Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and avoid diving in adverse conditions.
- Use Proper Gear: Ensure all equipment is in good condition and suitable for the diving conditions.
- Be Mindful of Marine Life: Respect the marine environment and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
- Stay Within Limits: Know your limits and dive within your certification and experience level.
- Be Aware of Baboons: Keep an eye out for baboons around the parking area. They can be aggressive and dangerous.
- Navigate the Terrain: The cobbled beach can be tricky to navigate. Move carefully to avoid slipping on the rolling stones.
Gear Recommendations
For a successful and comfortable dive at Pappies Bank, consider the following gear (similar to Johnson’s Reef in Smitswinkel Bay but with an 80cm speargun):
- Wetsuits: A 5mm wetsuit with an integrated hood, such as the Reef 5mm Barrier Dive Wetsuit, provides optimal thermal protection.
- Fins: High-performance fins like Spierre or Freedivers Pure Carbon Blades offer excellent propulsion and maneuverability.
- Masks and Snorkels: Low-volume masks such as the Reef Inferno or Reef Mirror-Free ensure clear vision and a comfortable fit.
- Weightbelts: Freedivers silicone weightbelts with 800g D-weights provide excellent weight distribution and buoyancy control.
- Dive Lights: Essential for exploring caves and dark areas.
- Spearguns: An 80cm speargun like the Zeneth or Horizon is ideal for the shallow, kelp-rich environment.
Personal Anecdotes
Pappies Bank is a fantastic site for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge. The kelp can be thick, but the rewards are worth it. I’ve had some incredible encounters with Galjoen here, and the scenery is stunning. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout navigating the cobbled beach.
Don’t forget to prepare! Ensure your gear is in top condition and always dive with a buddy. The kelp can be dense, so it’s important to stay close to your dive partner. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when exiting the water, as the cobbles can be tricky to navigate.
Conclusion
Pappies Bank on the Atlantic seaboard of Cape Point offers a unique and rewarding diving experience. With its diverse marine life, excellent visibility, and challenging terrain, it is a site that every experienced diver should explore. Whether you’re targeting Galjoen or simply enjoying the underwater scenery, Pappies Bank provides an adventure that is both thrilling and memorable. By following the safety tips and gear recommendations provided, divers can ensure a safe and enjoyable dive at this intriguing location. Plan your dive carefully, respect the marine environment, and enjoy the unique underwater world that Pappies Bank has to offer.
After your dive, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Cape Point. The scenic drive through the park, combined with the rich marine life and challenging dive conditions, make Pappies Bank a truly special dive site.
