

Best for beginner divers, 1-7m, shore entry, mild current.
Vetch's Pier, locally known as Vetchies, is a man-made reef formed by the remains of a 19th-century breakwater. Located in Durban, this shore-entry site is popular for both diving and snorkelling, offering sheltered conditions on the shoreward side. The site is shallow, with depths ranging from 1 to 7 metres and an average of 3 metres. Divers and snorkellers may encounter species such as the bluebottle, which is very common, alongside uncommon sightings of white-spotted puffer, speckled butterflyfish, melon butterflyfish, wrasses, yellow boxfish, and Atlantic sea swallow. Hazards include boat traffic, jellyfish, sea urchins, and stonefish. Facilities at the site include showers, changing rooms, toilets, and parking.
-29.86650, 31.04950
The best time to dive the reef is on the high tide, as it allows one to cross over the top side of the reef.
Comfortable shore entry dive. The curvature of the reef makes an entry on the outside and an exit on the inside the best profile.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 7m
Visibility
3-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
21-26°C
Current
Mild
You may encounter very common bluebottles, as well as uncommon species including white-spotted puffers, speckled and melon butterflyfish, wrasses, yellow boxfish, and Atlantic sea swallows.
Yes, Vetch's Pier is suitable for beginners, offering shallow depths and sheltered conditions on the shoreward side.
The depth ranges from 1 to 7 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
Vetch's Pier is a shore entry site.
Yes, Vetch's Pier is a popular snorkelling location with a rating of 4/5.
Diving at Vetch's Pier (Vetchies) in Durban requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Vetch's Pier (Vetchies) in Durban. Water temperatures range from 21°C to 26°C.
Divers at Vetch's Pier (Vetchies) in Durban should be aware of jellyfish, lionfish, stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Vetch's Pier (Vetchies) in Durban typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Vetch's Pier (Vetchies) in Durban typically ranges from 3 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.