Duncan Pattenden
Owner
Duncan opened Orca’s doors in 1993, and his business and circle of friends, has been growing steadily ever since! Duncan loves diving and is qualified as a PADI and CMAS Dive Instructor. He has been on numerous “wreck-hunting” expeditions and has dived in some of the most beautiful parts of the world, including here!
Duncan is also qualified as a SASCA (South African Small Craft Association) and SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority) instructor and runs our skipper courses and even carries out boat inspections. In addition to diving, Duncan enjoys hiking, underwater photography and touring around parts of Africa on his motorbike.
Maxine King
Staff Manager
As Staff Manager, Maxine keeps the staff on their toes ensuring everything runs smoothly and to the highest standard. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the dive school, including coordination, maintenance, and scheduling. Maxine has a passion for the outdoors and enjoys hiking and scuba diving.
Jonathan Marais
Accounts manager
Jonathan has been a part of the Orca team from the very beginning and has gained an in-depth wealth of knowledge from being active on the shop floor as well as out in the field. He is the go-to person for any information, particularly relating to hiking and diving. Jonathan will be able to assist you with any query you may have and will surely provide you with the answers you need. On the more serious side, he is in charge of all of Orca’s financial business, but can’t wait to go exploring the Cape’s mountains when away from the office!
Sacha Marais
Administrative Supervisor
Sacha joined Orca in February 2012 and is often the first friendly face you’ll encounter. She manages all administrative processes and paperwork, ensuring everything runs efficiently behind the scenes. Well-travelled and approachable, Sacha enjoys walking and hiking in her free time.
Craig Dedricks
DV and BCD Technician
With a background in commercial diving, Craig brings a high level of expertise to equipment servicing. He is dedicated to continuously expanding his knowledge and takes great pride in his work.
Safety is Craig’s top priority, and his attention to detail ensures that every piece of gear meets the highest standards. When your equipment is with Craig, you can trust it’s in excellent hands.
David Marais
Sales and Dive Academy Course Convener
David has been part of Orca for as long as many customers can remember. Knowledgeable across all areas of the business, he is always willing to go the extra mile to help customers find exactly what they need.
He has built strong, lasting relationships with clients and is a trusted presence on the shop floor. Outside of work, David enjoys rock climbing—and is a formidable competitor on the paintball field!
Uri Steyn
Cylinder Technician
Uri heads up the cylinder workshop and brings years of experience in the outdoor and retail industry. He handles a demanding workload with efficiency and enthusiasm.
A passionate climber, Uri spends much of his free time on the mountain and frequently leads hikes up Table Mountain and surrounding trails. He holds a Level 3 First Aid qualification and volunteers with the City of Cape Town Disaster Management team.
Bongiwe Patuleni
Workshop Manager
Bongiwe has been with Orca since 2014 and manages both the DV and cylinder workshops. She is highly skilled, particularly as a valve technician, and is known for her precision and commitment to quality.
A quick learner and excellent problem solver, Bongiwe is always ready to assist wherever needed.
Nontsindiso 'Tsidie' Gongo
Merchandising & Stock Control
Tsidie plays a key role in keeping the shop organised, well-stocked, and welcoming. She is responsible for merchandising and stock monitoring, and is always ready with a smile to assist customers.
While not yet a diver, Tsidie has a keen interest in outdoor activities and is eager to get involved.