Aliwal Shoal

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The Aliwal Shoal is a coral reef approximately 5km off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Aliwal Shoal was named after the sinking of the 3 Masted vessel "Aliwal", Captained by James Anderson in 1849 (source: Aliwal Shoal Tourism). Its position at the meeting point of the cold Benguela current and the warm Agulhas current make for some stunning marine life which explains its popularity with divers. The Shoal is know especially for its abundance of Grey nurse sharks (known locally as ragged tooth sharks or "raggies") between August and November when the sharks congregate there to mate.

Those wishing to dive Aliwal Shoal are well served by a number of dive centres located in the nearest town of Umkomaas.

[edit] References

Dive Africa

Aliwal Shoal Tourism