By Misha Fray
Founded in 1966, the Maties Underwater Club (MUC) has been a place where ocean lovers and adventurers could unite over shared interests for six decades. What began as a space where freediving, spearfishing and underwater hockey enthusiasts could come together, evolved to an ocean exploration hub. Through the university, the club even has its own five-star Professional Association of Diving (PADI) dive resort. However, the MUC is proudly about the people.
According to Zeané Nel, Chairperson of MUC and MSc (Zoology) student, the club’s greatest strength lies beyond the diving itself. “From the moment you step into our slightly chaotic, laughter-filled clubhouse, you feel that sense of belonging,” she says. Members range from seasoned divers to complete beginners, all drawn together by curiosity about the underwater world.
Being part of the MUC means having access to some world-class diving opportunities with professional training and ocean dives at a more affordable price. The MUC offers a space where everyone’s interests are taken care of. Outside of regular dives and spearfishing, there are also opportunities to discover Cape Town’s marine life, beach cleanups and socials. Some of these socials include an annual quiz night and a “jol”. Non-members can also participate in activities hosted by the MUC throughout the year. Some of these events hosted are free for non-members while others come at a cost. All pricings are listed on the MUC’s pricing list available on their social media.
According to Benjamin Tate, Vice-Chairperson and third-year BA (Humanities) student, non-members can participate in all dives, freedives and spearfishing events. They are also encouraged to participate in the conservation-focused events. These include ocean-cleanup dives and beach cleanups. Additionally, there are educational opportunities that are open to the wider public.
Whether through scuba, freediving or conservation efforts, MUC continues to offer students a rare opportunity: the chance to discover a world just beneath the surface and a community that feels like home.
