Cape RADD

About Cape RADD

South Africa’s shoreline is absolutely bursting with marine life in massive variety, and Cape RADD offers visitors the opportunity to explore this life and learn more about it with their bespoke courses. Based in Simon’s Town, just outside Cape Town, Cape RADD offers both SCUBA and free-dive training courses to showcase the marine environment and biodiversity. Alternatively, participants can explore the shallower waters while snorkelling.

More than this, though, these courses are designed to allow their participants to be first-hand contributors to the marine databases and to work alongside the Cape RADD marine biologists.

The trips start with a brief presentation where the local biodiversity and ecosystems are discussed. Participants will also be given some skills to identify some of the more common fish species that are likely to be spotted during their dive. Each dive or snorkelling excursion lasts for about an hour, giving you the chance to see the largest variety of marine fauna and flora, and to take some awesome underwater shots.

Afterwards, divers will get to compare what they saw, record their sightings, and chat about what they may mean in terms of the research being conducted here. All of the equipment is provided, including fish identification books or guides. The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making for a fabulous morning or afternoon out.

Participants wanting to snorkel do not need any training, but need to be proficient swimmers and fairly comfortable in the water. But, SCUBA divers need to have at least an Open Water Diving qualification. Those who don’t, but would like to learn, can enquire about the PADI dive qualification courses, which can be organised through Cape RADD. You can also visit their website at Cape RADD for more information and to view all activities on offer.

Simon’s Town is known for its naval base and the rich history that characterises it. It is a fascinating little spot to explore, as are its waters.