The Maori (1909)
This site can be crystal clear but very cold. The Maori lies in an area also known as the fridge of the Atlantic. The Maori was a British cargo steam ship of approximately 5300 tons and 175 metres long. She was also the sister ship of the Oakburn. She was lost on a trip from London to New Zealand.

She struck the rocks in thick fog and drizzle and sank on 5 August 1909.She had a crew of 55 and 32 lives were lost due to problems with the lifeboats. 14 men stayed on board and waited quite a while before being noticed and rescued. 11 of them were taken ashore by line successfully.


On board was a cargo of explosives, water piping and crockery. The wreck lies in a well sheltered bay about 75m offshore with her stern to the land side and bow seawards. She has remained in very good condition and even Jacques Cousteau thought her the best preserved wreck of her vintage.

Average depth: 20m          Maximum depth: 25m

How to get there:
It is only a short trip from Hout Bay Harbour and most dive shops and charters dive this site during summer. The other nice thing is that you get a free trip past seal island on the way there. Great fun if you're into seals.


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