Scuba diving has always been on my bucket list of things to do before I, well, kick the bucket. This December I was finally able to tick it off and what a life changing thing to finally say I had done.
We arrived at Dive Action in Paarden Eiland, practically jumping with anticipation. ‘Scuba Steve’ our diving instructor gave us the rundown of how the equipment works, kitted us out with our uniforms, which were extremely heavy. It turns out it is much harder to sink in Cape Town water than in other areas around the world. We looked ridiculous; however, our excitement distracted us from all mirrors.
We went for a practice round in the Wynberg swimming pool, where we learnt about the correct methods of equalising, scuba language and signs to use when underwater and how to use the ‘Aqua Lung’. Once we were comfortable with diving in a pool, we took to the road for a beautiful drive to Simon’s Town beach.
There is a huge 1.5m x 1.5m stingray that often swims around the old parts of a sunken wreck of a ship. Once I heard I would be scuba diving with a stingray, I contemplated how fast I could run underwater if I saw it. We made our way across the beach towards the ocean, which seemed like too many kilometres away when you have 16 extra kilograms of weight sitting on your hips.
We were keen and restless to get in the water and explore the sea’s floor. The bottom of the ocean is like another world and touching the seafloor was an unusual pleasure! A baby seal soared past us, and we swam in unison next to marvellous fish. We were amazed as we investigated the old ship wreck which was overgrown with seaweed. I didn’t end up seeing the Stingray, which I’m not too sure if I’m happy or sad about. We were in such awe, that 45 minutes seemed to fly by.
I would love to go again and maybe next time see that notorious stingray.
OF NOTE
When Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5 pm, Saturday 8:30 am – 1 pm
Where 22 Carlisle Street, Paarden Eiland
Cost R995 for the full day course
Contact +27 21 511 0800, [email protected], www.diveaction.co.za
Photography courtesy Dive Action
