

Best for advanced divers, 9-30m, boat entry, moderate current.
The Aster is a wreck dive located 700 metres offshore from Simon's Town. This artificial reef sits at depths between 9 and 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site features an overhead environment that requires advanced certification. Divers should expect moderate currents and surge, with visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres. Water temperatures are consistently cold, typically between 14C and 17C, necessitating a drysuit or thick wetsuit. Night diving is possible, offering a different perspective of the wreck. Due to boat traffic, strong currents, and potential entanglement hazards, this site is suited for experienced divers only. Species recorded around this area include various sharks, rays, and invertebrates.
-34.07037, 18.35712
Only the first diver of the day will get clean water inside the wreck, as bubbles and finning disturb silt and deckhead particulates.
Accessible by a short boat trip from Hout Bay harbour.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
9-30m
Visibility
5-20m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
14-17°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
37 min
Best Time
Jan-Nov, Dec
While not confirmed at this exact site, species recorded around this area include Long-nosed Fur Seal, Common Octopus, Leopard Catshark, Pyjama Shark, and various crustaceans and sea stars.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the overhead environment, potential for strong currents, and depth.
The wreck lies at depths between 9 and 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
The Aster requires boat access and is located approximately 700 metres from the shore.
No, this is a wreck dive site with an overhead environment and depths that are not suitable for snorkelling.
Diving at The Aster in Hout Bay requires the following certifications: Open Water, Wreck, Nitrox. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at The Aster in Hout Bay. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 17°C.
The best months to visit The Aster in Hout Bay are January, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Expect moderate currents at The Aster in Hout Bay. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at The Aster in Hout Bay typically ranges from 5 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.