Dave Gilbert: Messages

As one of the furthest sites in the Sodwana reef complex, the highlight is the huge Green Tree coral. It stands about two and a half metres high, and is surrounded by hundreds of Goldies. It forms a unique feature amongst all the reefs in Sodwana Bay. This is a great multilevel dive, with a spectacular system of swim-throughs, overhangs, and caves. The crevices play home to Moray eels, and Tube anemones. Potato bass and Brindle bass are often found relaxing under overhangs. Keep your eyes open for Sharks and the hidden surprises such as Frogfish, Scorpionfish, and colourful Nudibranches.

Shallow reef which never fails to deliver when conditions are right.

Antons' large profile makes it popular with divers. Nutrients are carried and pushed onto the reef by a predominantly north-south current, where large schools of fish hang. Slingers, Christies and Humpback snappers enjoy the feast. Don't miss the Slender Bardman on the northern sand patch. Meanwhile, look for the Sea Apple, a relative of the Sea Cucumber. The Giant moray also make a pleasant surprise. Large pelagic like Bigeye kingfish are often seen hanging near the surface in large bait balls. Large organisms like Turtles and Manta rays are also found feeding around the reef.

Bikini is a macro photographer's playground. Try spotting the Ghost and Scribbled pipefish, Garden eels, or juvenile Boxies. This delicate reef is an important cleaning station, packed with Durban Dancers, Banded Boxer, and other cleaner shrimps. This attracts many adult and juvenile Moray eels (including Black Cheek, Starry, and Geometric morays). Don't miss some of the bigger visitors, such as Sharks, Turtles, Rays, and Manta's, who regularly make use of the cleaning facilities and can sometimes be seen.

Hotspot was discovered by spear fishermen looking for game fish which lurk in the deep waters, it consists of a ledge which provides a great patrol area for big game fish in search of prey. Various crustaceans can be found along the bottom. See what is using the Black Tree coral as shelter. Lionfish are sometimes spotted on the small pinnacle just off the ledge. Sharks, Potato bass, and various Rays (e.g. Eagle rays, Manta rays) may accompany you on your dive.