Welcome to Ocean Warriors

Start Your Dive Journey, Get Certified. Get Adventurous, Learn to Dive Today.
Level Up Your Dive Skills, Become an Ocean Warrior.



From shark diving the legendary Aliwal Shoal to chasing bait balls during the adrenaline fueled
Sardine Run along South Africa’s untamed Wild Coast this is your call to adventure.

Based in the vibrant coastal town of Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal,
Ocean Warriors Dive offers world-class ocean experiences for every skill level.

Join us for PADI scuba diving courses, marine photography workshops and surfing lessons
which will be lead by ur dive instructor Rae Du Plesis or
simply soak in the view from Widdy's Beach Club pool after a thrilling shark or reef dive.

And in 2026, be part of the ultimate bucket-list event, the Sardine Run Experience.
A once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for divers, photographers and true ocean warriors.

Think we’re exaggerating? Dive into our gallery and see what you’re missing.
View Dive Gallery



Scuba Diving
Explore Beneath the Surface

Dive into vibrant reefs, dramatic wrecks, and close encounters with marine life led by Rae Du Plesis our resident dive instructor.

Marine Photography
Capture the Ocean’s Soul

Join Rae below the waves and bring back more than just memories. Learn from seasoned pros while photographing sharks, dolphins, and South Africa’s rich marine life in their natural habitat.

Surfing
Ride the Warrior Waves

Whether you’re starting out or chasing bigger swells, our surf packages combine expert coaching, local wave knowledge, and all the gear you need to master the ocean’s rhythm.

Courses
Learn. Improve. Conquer.

From PADI dive certifications to beginner and advanced surf coaching, we offer training that builds confidence, skills, and respect led by our resident dive instructor Rae Du Plesis.

A Front-Row Seat

The Sardine Run – The world's largest biomass migration

Experience the thrill of millions of sardines migrating along the Wild Coast, pursued by whales, dolphins, sharks, and seabirds. It’s a spectacle so powerful, it has to be seen to be believed!

Book your Sardine Run Experience
Experts Who Live and Breathe the Ocean

Meet Our Team Of Ocean Warriors

Your safety, enjoyment, and unforgettable memories are our top priority.
With decades of combined ocean experience, world class certifications and an unshakable passion for the sea, our crew isn’t just guiding your adventure they’re living it alongside you.

In partnership with the respected father son duo Emil and Travis Pirzenthal of Aliwal Shoal Adventures and the internationally acclaimed marine photographer and PADI Dive Instructor Rae du Plessis, Ocean Warriors offers unmatched expertise both above and below the surface.

When you join us, you’re not just booking a trip you’re putting your trust in professionals who have dedicated their lives to mastering the ocean.

Julian Taylor

Ocean Warrior Leader CEO, International Lifeguard & Skipper

A seasoned ocean professional with international lifeguard credentials, Julian leads every expedition with precision, safety, and a deep respect for the sea.

Rae Du Plessis

Ocean Warriors Dive Instructor & Marine Photographer

An award-winning marine photographer and experienced dive instructor, Rae helps you see and capture the ocean in ways few ever do.

Travis Pirzenthal

Ocean Warriors Tour Operator, Skipper & Dive Instructor

Passionate about sharing the thrill of the ocean, Travis combines local knowledge, diving expertise, and a friendly approach that makes every guest feel like part of the crew.

Emil Pirzenthal

Ocean Warriors Tour Operator, Senior Skipper & Dive Instructor

With years navigating South Africa’s iconic dive sites, Emil ensures every journey is smooth, safe, thrilling, and truly unforgettable

The Ocean Warrior Difference

Decades of skill, unmatched safety, and a passion for the sea, here’s why your adventure is in the best hands.

50,000+

Dives & launches without incident.

A proven safety record you can trust.

25+ Years

Of Combined Ocean Experience

Expertise built over decades in the water.

PADI-Certified

Instructors & Skippers

Trained to the highest international standards.

Surf. Dive. Sleep. Repeat

Stay & Play – Adventure with Comfort

Chase waves by day and chill in our curated coastal stays by night. All our adventures come with carefully selected accommodation options, so you can rest, recharge, and relive the stoke every day of your journey.


Widdy's Beach Club


Widdy's Beach Club & Highrocks Beach House

Widdy's is an 8 bedroom facility and Highrocks is a 5 bedroom which in total can accomodate up to 30 people. Just a cruisey 39-minute drive South of Durban, you’ll be greeted with expansive ocean and beach views for as far as the eye can see.

Widdy's Beach Club Highrocks Beach House
Testimonials

Happy Clients & Feedbacks