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Thunderbolt Reef

Eastern Cape, South Africa
Depth
Depth Icon
98ft
Visibility
Visibility Icon
13ft - 39ft
Entry
Boat Icon
boat
Experience Level
Experienced

About Thunderbolt Reef

Within the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan area but just around the point called Cape Recife. Thunderbolt Reef is a classic old local dive site and the reef gets its name from the HMS Thunderbolt that ran aground here in 1847. (Don't bother trying to find her, no wreckage remains I'm afraid) Thunderbolt Reef is massive and runs almost from the Cape Recife point to a well known beach here called Shelley Beach. The underwater topography is dramatic with stunning boulders and knolls interspersed with gullies and drop offs. The reef itself is very colourful sporting the 'dress' which is typical of the Wild Side. Loads of seafans and beautiful corals and you'll find sharks here too. The usually local fish species are plentiful here.

Thunderbolt Reef Dive Info: Key Characteristics and Details

Unit Settings

Terrain and Features: Reef, Shark, Rock
Entry Type:Boat
Max Depth:30m
Visibility Range:4m - 12m
Experience Level:Experienced
Best Gas:21% - 35% O2

Marine Life

  • Ragged Tooth Sharks
  • Sea Fan
  • Rays
  • Corals
  • Shy Shark
  • Nudibranchs

Weather Conditions

Water Temperature

Unit Settings

Dive Operators near Thunderbolt Reef

Unit Settings

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Dive Site Hazards

Although we currently lack information on specific hazards at this location, their absence cannot be assumed. Your knowledge and experience with this dive site could greatly enhance our page – we invite you to share your insights.

Location

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