When it comes to scuba diving in South Africa, Umkomaas has a reputation of being among the very best locations that our country has to offer. When I was offered the chance to go scuba diving at the Blue Ocean Dive Resort I jumped at the opportunity.
For many, scuba diving is an activity set aside to a bucket list, whilst in reality our country has a number of amazing diving spots. The town of Umkomaas is located only 45 minutes south from Durban and this small subtropical town welcomes eager divers from around the world.
As I woke up in the morning of my dive, I was filled with utter excitement for I knew that this was going to be a day to be remembered, my first time going scuba diving! As we made our way up the Natal coast we were met with rainy weather, good thing that this doesn’t hinder your chances of diving at all.
We arrived at the resort and we greeted by the team. My friend and I met our instructor, Schalk, who assisted us with getting the correct size of equipment and then we made our way to the pool area. The equipment was awkward at first, but it began to feel more comfortable as time passed.
Since neither of us had gone diving before, we would be doing a Discover Scuba. Schalk was very helpful and informative when it came to the instructions given as well as the practice session in the pool. We both aced the tutorial, we were now comfortable with breathing underwater as well as all of the signals and safety measures. We were now ready for the real thing.
While we waited for the convoy to depart to the nearby launching point, I noted that the resort had a number of international visitors staying there. This was further evidence that the Blue Ocean Dive Resort has a high level of pedigree. As the rubber duck pulled up, our excitement grew. It was time for us to depart.
With all of our gear packed and all the divers and instructors seated, we took the short drive to the launch site. Our skipper had to battle the waves, but once we cleared the surf we were now on our way to the dive site. Our instructor reminded my friend and I of what is expected of us, when it comes to diving it is vital to be calm and breathe as well as to equalize regularly when descending and ascending.
As the boat stopped, we geared up and prepared to go diving. After a brief countdown our instructor pulled the both of us backwards in classic fashion. We deflated our jackets and the great descent began. After gaining my composure and equalizing at regular intervals I was now diving!
During the dive we visited a few reefs along the popular Aliwal Shoal. It was surreal to be so close to the fish as they swam right past us, some even so close that it would be possible to reach out and touch them. It was amazing to see the wildlife in their natural habitat, even though I have been snorkeling quite a few times there is something different with the fish being essentially at home by the reef.
There is something truly unique with diving, it is not like anything I have experienced before. It almost like being on a different planet. We sought out the little reefs and crevices, even thought my heart desired to simply go and explore I knew I had to stick nearby to the team. During the dive I saw numerous schools of fish, all of different shapes, colours and sizes. Two of the other divers mentioned afterwards that they saw a manta as well as a raggy.
My friend bought his GoPro along for the dive and the footage is like something from a David Attenborough documentary. I often had to make myself aware of what I was seeing and doing as so often these activities can go by so quickly without much recollection. I made an effort to take mental images of not only what I saw, but also of what I felt during this memorable activity.
Once our dive had ended we waited on the boat for the other divers to ascend. Even though I wished I could stay down for much longer, part of me was glad that it was finished.
As we made our way back to the resort we chatted with the other divers who gave us some advice for further dives, this was appreciated.
I felt really privileged to have had the opportunity to have been able to experience my first dive and the fact that it was at Aliwal Shoal made it all the more memorable. I can definitely say that it won’t be my last dive!
Scuba Diving and Packages with Blue Ocean Dive Resort
The Blue Ocean Dive Resort has a wide range of diving options, as well as courses that can be done through the resort. They are a 5 star IDC Dive Centre, so you can be sure that you are in the best possible hands.
Their diving options can be customized depending on the experience, qualifications and desires of the diver. The rich biodiversity of the surrounding reef means that you can expect a wide variety of wildlife during your dive, you can expect to see various specious of fish, sharks, turtles, mantas and much more.
Some of the dive options include Discover Scuba Dives, Reef or Wreck Dives, Reef Snorkeling, Baited Shark Dives and Snorkeling, Free Diving, Baited Shark Free Dive as well as their selection of adventure and stay and dive packages.
If you have caught the diving bug, then perhaps the next step would be to get a dive course. The experienced team will be able to make those dreams come to fruition. Whether you are looking to getting an Open Water Course or even becoming an instructor, this can be done at the Blue Ocean Dive Resort.
The Sardine Run is a world-renowned natural display that takes place along the Port St Johns coast; you can reserve your spot with the Blue Ocean Dive Resort.
Accommodation and Restaurant at the Blue Ocean Dive Resort
If you are planning on a diving holiday, then you should base your holiday at the Blue Ocean Dive Resort in Umkomaas. They offer great views of the ocean and the nearby golf course, this resort is the only operator that offers hotel accommodation, fully licensed sea view deck and bar as well as being a dive center.
The building dates back to 1934, this grand hotel offers a one stop location for your adventurous getaway.
Accommodation consists of 20 spacious en-suite rooms which are newly renovated. Their dive and stay packages are particular popular for visitors.
Their onsite restaurant is a popular spot for those who have just gone on a dive, I know for me I was quite famished after my excursion. Their menu consists of breakfasts, snacks as well as main meals.
To view their Menu online, click HERE.
To read more about the Blue Ocean Dive Resort, click HERE.
Blue Ocean Dive Resort is located at 1 Reynolds Street, Umkomaas, KwaZulu Natal. Here is their location on Google Maps. For bookings, call +27 (0) 67 278 0522 or email bookings@blueoceandive.co.za | info@blueoceandive.co.za and visit them online at blueoceandive.co.za today. Follow them on Facebook HERE and on Instagram HERE.
