Raggies Cave

Aliwal Shoal

Dive Site Photos

Summary

Raggies Cave is an underwater cave system on a hard‑coral sandstone reef known for large seasonal aggregations of ragged‑tooth sharks, especially in the cooler winter months. The site features extensive rock formations including large caves, overhangs, gullies and several swim‑through tunnels, and is widely regarded as one of the most popular dives in the winter shark season. Access is by boat with mooring on the reef and a descent along shallow reef slopes into a dark cave chamber. Typical depth range is about 12 to 19 metres. Overhead passages and swim‑throughs require dive lights and careful buoyancy control; dives are suited to experienced open‑water or advanced divers under guide supervision. Currents are normally light but can become strong, and swells or wind changes may increase difficulty. Visibility is moderate to good on clear days but can decrease if sediment is stirred. Water temperature is moderate, cooler in winter when the ragged‑tooth sharks gather and warmer in summer, so appropriate thermal protection is advised. Divers are not permitted to enter the cave when ragged‑tooth sharks are inside and guides keep divers at a safe distance; narrow passages mean divers should remain within normal recreational depth limits.

Tags

reef
boat
cave
swimthroughs
currents
advanced
topography

Marine Life

spotted raggedtooth shark
false stonefish
guitarfishes

Dive Site Maps

Raggies Cave - Dive Site in Aliwal Shoal