Thanks for the write up jnash. Hope you guys will come back some day. Give Sodwana Bay a try next time.
xyrandomyx, I believe Aliwal is for advanced divers? Aliwal is next on my list after diving in Ponta in June (can't wait!). I just want to make sure I have the right experience before going to Aliwal. I have done my AOW and logged 15 dives now (11 at Sodwana, rest at our quarry, Miracle Waters). My buoyancy and profile are very good. I can move around quickly if I need to, so I am an average swimmer. I am just concerned about surface conditions and heavy currents. I have unfortunately not had any experience with heavy currents or bad surface conditions. Do you think I need more experience before diving at Aliwal on a bad day? I am not afraid of rough launches and I don't get sea sick on the rides out back/in or while kitting up to roll off the boat. Funnily enough, I really enjoy the boat rides. Adds a bit more excitement to the dive.
I have been lucky to snorkel with dolphins twice now, but would love to experience dolphins while on Scuba. Very lucky!