Platboom Bay in Cape Point
Platboom Bay is a lesser-known dive site located on the Atlantic seaboard of Cape Point. This site offers a unique and rewarding diving experience, characterized by its thick kelp forests and abundant marine life. As with other sites in Cape Point, divers must be mindful of the baboons in the area.
Cape Point Diving Regulations
Diving in Cape Point is governed by the Marine Living Resources Act of South Africa. This regulation states that no dive equipment is allowed on a boat, and only shore diving is permitted within one nautical mile from the shore. Dive gear is prohibited on self-sustained vessels within two nautical miles from the shore, except for Bellows Rock just off the point. Divers must comply with these regulations to protect the marine environment and ensure sustainable diving practices.
Page 2, point 4 MLRA of 1998: 
Getting to Platboom Bay
To access Platboom Bay, you must enter Cape Point either with a level 3 marine activity brochure or by paying an entry fee, stating that you will be diving. Once inside, follow the road over the speed hump past the visitor’s center. After entering the park, continue the main road past the Buffelsbaai turnoff. Look for a turnoff on the right labeled “Platboom.” Continue until you reach a parking lot and park in the lot closest to the road. From there, cross the sand and head towards the beach, where you will see a rocky area with blinders sticking out at the back. This is the dive area.
Location of Platboom Bay: 
Entering Platboom Bay
The entry at Platboom Bay involves crossing the sand and entering the water on the right hand side of the beach, where you can see a rocky outcrop. You will note this area is surrounded by thick kelp forests, which can be challenging to navigate but offer a rewarding dive experience.
Diving Conditions at Platboom Bay
Platboom Bay is a shallow dive site with thick kelp forests. The best diving conditions are during the summer when the easterly winds clear the water. Water temperatures range between 12 and 18°C, and the depths vary from 4 to 10 meters.
Shallow Areas:
The site features shallow waters where Galjoen and mullet are often spotted feeding in about 2 meters of water.
Mid-Depth Areas:
As you go deeper, you will encounter thicker kelp forests and larger Hottentot fish.
Deeper Areas:
The back of the blinders opens up, allowing for deeper dives up to 10 meters, where Hottentot are commonly found.
Marine Life in Platboom Bay
The marine life at Platboom Bay is typical of the Atlantic seaboard, with a focus on:
Cape Hottentot:
Frequently spotted in the area.
Galjoen:
A prime target for spearfishers. Legal minimum size: 35 cm. Daily limit: 2 per person.
Crayfish:
Abundant in the area.
Shy Sharks:
Occasionally seen.
Pajama Sharks:
Adds to the diversity of shark species.
Mullet:
Often seen feeding in the shallows
Abalone:
Occasionally spotted in the intertidal areas
Despite the limited variety of species compared to other sites, the marine life at Platboom Bay is abundant and provides a rewarding experience for divers.
Best Times and Conditions for Diving
Summer months offer the best diving conditions at Platboom Bay. The easterly winds clear the water, improving visibility. Average water temperatures range between 12 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 Platboom Bay
Safety is crucial when diving at Platboom Bay. Here are some essential tips:
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 rocky and sandy beach can be tricky to navigate. Move carefully to avoid slipping.
Gear Recommendations
For a successful and comfortable dive at Platboom Bay, consider the following gear:
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
Platboom Bay is an incredible dive site, especially during the summer. The kelp can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. I’ve had some fantastic encounters with Galjoen here, and the abundance of crayfish and Hottentot makes it a worthwhile dive.”
Take preparation seriously. 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 rocky area can be tricky to navigate.
Conclusion
Platboom Bay 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, Platboom Bay 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 Platboom Bay 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 Platboom Bay a truly special dive site.
