Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/Oceana Power Boat Club slipway

Oceana Power Boat Club is a launch site for divers boats around the Cape Peninsula and False Bay. It's mostly used in summer, to reach northern dive sites of the Atlantic coast with a shorter sailing time. However it's also a popular launch site for fishermen, and when the Snoek or Yellowtail are running, access can be almost impossible.

Access

The slipway at OPBC

Access is controlled by Oceana Power Boat Club.

Position

• 1 Oceana Power Boat Club entrance: S33° 54.099' E018° 24.887'
• 2 Oceana Power Boat Club slipway: S33° 54.074' E018° 24.926'
• 3 Oceana Power Boat Club floating jetty: S33° 54.062' E018° 24.928'

About 3.5 km from central Cape Town by road.

Conditions

Usually used in summer, when diving conditions on the Atlantic seaboard are more likely to be good.

Facilities

Open (hours). . Divers are not officially allowed to bring their vehicles into the club premises, even for loading the boat. Only the launch vehicle and trailer are allowed inside. Other vehicles must be parked outside. This rule is applied unpredictably, so you may be able to unload and then park outside. There is a tarred parking lot next door with a reasonable amount of parking, shared by a restaurant. Daily rate applies, and get a receipt as there have been scams by people impersonating attendants. Some days in high season it is difficult to find parking, but divers are usually there before the restaurant patrons arrive. Other parking is even less convenient along the road to Mouille Point.

There is a floating jetty in working condition, but somewhat shabby, and the access walkway can be very steep and rather slippery at low tide. The clubhouse, when open, has clean toilets in good condition, but this is not a changing area or intended for wet access.

There is also a bar and kitchen, which serves acceptable fast food items at reasonable prices, but the staff is small, and on a crowded day the wait may be long.

Fees

A launching fee of R40? is charged for boats.

There is a charge of R10 per day (2016) for parking in a fenced parking lot just outside the club grounds. Security is probably better than it was before this parking area was available, but the attendants may not be on duty when you arrive. In this case, drive in and park, you will be charged on exit.

Stay safe

Hazards

Security of vehicles parked outside is uncertain. Lock up and don't leave anything tempting visible in the car.

The slipway and boarding area can be slippery when wet. Watch your step, particularly at low tide.

Return to Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay#Harbours and slipways