Aliwal Shoal, a Rocky Reef Off; Kwa-Zulu Natal Coast Coast

The Aliwal Shoal is a rocky Reef which is the remains of an ancient sand dune, approximately 5 kilometres off the Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The Reef is inhabited by many kinds of hard and soft corals and a variety of tropical and subtropical fish species. Aliwal Shoal was named after the near-sinking of the 3 Masted vessel "Aliwal", captained by James Anderson, in 1849. There are two Shipwrecks near the reef that are popular recreational Dive Sites. The Norwegian bulk carrier, the 'MV Produce' which sank in 1974, and the 'SS Nebo' which sank in 1884. Aliwal Shoal has diverse marine life including large predators and is popular as a recreational scuba diving Destination. The Shoal is known especially for its abundance of Grey nurse Sharks between July and November when the Sharks, congregate there to mate.