The BOSS Of Wreck Diving

Text and Imges by Nicolene Olckers

Diving on sites around the Cape Peninsula and False Bay in South Africa, the chances of diving on a sunken wreck are unique and often very adventurous. Several wrecks, such as the ones in Smitswinkel Bay, were scuttled (purposely sunk) as underwater artificial reefs. Others became sunken treasure and shored wreckage because of big, rough seas and sometimes hard-hitting storms along the coastline. The harsh rocky coastline and merciless Cape storms have claimed several ships and lives in Duiker Point.

The Dive site
Although intrepid hikers often explore the visible wreckage by hiking the trails from Llandudno or Hout Bay, divers who wish to explore the wrecks underwater should and can only access it by boat. The hiking trail entails some severe bouldering and rock hopping. A study of the tide tables is advised, and those brave enough should remember to carry enough drinking water in extreme heat. It is also important to note that the dive site has been situated within the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area since 2004, and a permit to dive here is required by law.

The Bos400 and SS Oakburn wrecks lie in 22-25meter deep water on a rocky reef in the Karbonkelberg area between Hout Bay and Llandudno, in the western cape, South Africa. The interesting fact about the site is that the BOS lies almost on top of the Oakburn.
The SS Oakburn was a British steamer sailing from New York to Sydney. Despite sounding its foghorn repeatedly, it ran hard aground in dense fog on May 27, 1906. The force of the impact was significant, and the ship began to break up immediately. The cargo of railway tracks, sewing machines, musical instruments, glassware, oil and paper were scattered along the shore. Although most of the crew and passengers were rescued, tragically, two lives were lost in the event.

On 27 June 1994, the Russian tugboat Tigr towed the BOS400 to Europe when the tow rope broke. The gale force of North Westerly wind and rough sea pushed the BOS to shore, and it washed up on the rocks of Duiker Point. Despite several attempts by Tigr and her crew to refloat the huge crane barge, it remained grounded. Over time, the wreckage broke up and sank into the water. Most of the wreckage is scattered underwater down a slope to 20m, where the steel mingles with the wood wreck and cargo of the Oakburn.

Planning Your Dive
The best time of year to get in at this dive site is during the summer months from November through February. This time of year offers the best visibility, often exceeding 20 meters of clear blue water. Despite the tropical-looking water, temperatures will plummet as low as 7 degrees Celsius. Adequate insulation, such as a dry suit or a double-layer wetsuit, should keep most divers relatively warm for the duration of the dive. Gloves and a hood are recommended.

This site is excellent for adventurers with diverse diving experiences, from free divers to advanced scuba enthusiasts. The depth range and sometimes calm conditions are ideal for introductory to advanced wreck dives, including wreck penetration.
Divers can access the cavernous stern section of the BOS relatively quickly, and some of the steel superstructure underwater makes for exciting images.

Fauna and Flora
During a recent dive, the team encountered vibrant marine life. As nature slowly claims the artificial structures, it has become home to hundreds of West Coast rock lobsters and gently swaying Kelp taking hold on the outer plates. The kelp provides a haven for juvenile fish and the occasional playful seal. At the same time, dark shy sharks, colourful rock suckers and brown crabs can also be seen amongst the flowing kelp fronds.