Overview:
A thrilling three-day Great White Shark Diving and Whale Watching Tour to Gansbaai, commencing and concluding in Cape Town. Discover South Africa’s premier region for shark and whale observation, engaging in shark cage diving alongside a marine biologist and a skilled crew aboard a roomy, custom-designed shark diving vessel.
Participate in two shark cage diving excursions from the Kleinbaai harbor in Gansbaai to Dyer Island, renowned as one of the premier great white shark diving locations globally. Encountering a great white shark in its natural undersea habitat, while safely enclosed in a secure diving cage, is an unparalleled sensation. Additionally, partake in a whale-watching boat excursion from Gansbaai to Pearly Beach, Dyer Island, and Geyser Rock. Gansbaai hosts the Marine Big Five: whales, dolphins, seals, sharks, and penguins, all of which are frequently observed during this excursion.
Enjoy a two-night stay at a cozy guesthouse in Gansbaai, unwinding after your remarkable encounter with the diverse marine life surrounding Dyer Island.
Detailed Itinerary:
Tour highlights
- comprise two shark cage dives in Gansbaai.
- One whale watching boat excursion featuring a marine biologist and professional crew.
- Two nights of bed and breakfast accommodation with assured clean and dry wetsuits.
- comprehensive briefing prior to the excursions
- Weather-resistant jackets and personal flotation devices
- One guide for every three to four clients.
- Snacks and beverages on the vessel; light repast and debriefing following the dives.
Day 1: Cape Town to Gansbaai, South Africa
Our shark cage diving expedition commences early this morning, gathering guests from central sites throughout Cape Town. Departing from the picturesque city, we proceed to Gansbaai, almost two and a half hours distant. Situated in the Overberg Region, Gansbaai is the premier place for great white shark cage diving in South Africa.
During this scenic trip, we navigate the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, encountering charming lakes and agricultural lands in the verdant countryside of the Western Cape Province. We journey along the jagged coastline to Hermanus, renowned for its exceptional land-based whale watching opportunities globally. From this renowned whale hotspot, we proceed to the fishing village of Gansbaai, where our Great White Shark Adventure occurs. We proceed to the Kleinbaai harbor region of Gansbaai, often regarded as the ‘Great White Capital of the World’.
Upon arrival at our fully equipped headquarters, a continental breakfast accompanied by tea or coffee is provided. Prior to the boat excursion, a comprehensive training regarding great white sharks, diving protocols, and safety measures is conducted at the center. Subsequently, we set sail on our bespoke catamaran and commence the 25-minute voyage to Dyer Island, where we anchor. The specific mooring location and hence the length of the boat excursion is contingent upon shark activity on that day.
The custom-engineered stainless steel cage is submerged into the water, approximately one meter beneath the surface, where it remains securely attached to the boat. It is time to don your assigned wetsuit, booties, sweatshirt, weight belt, and mask in preparation for your dive. This is where the adrenaline surge occurs!
The crew assists you into the cage, where your head remains above the water until you choose to submerge and observe the sharks swimming by. Upon sighting an approaching shark, the crew aboard the vessel sounds the alarm, prompting you to submerge beneath the water’s surface to observe the elegant predator at close range, determining the duration for which you wish to remain submerged. Great white sharks are consistently observed at Dyer Island throughout the year, with a success rate of approximately 99% on this excursion.
We spend around two hours at sea, equipped with beverages and refreshments (bread rolls, chips, cold drinks, and hot chocolate). The robust cage accommodates eight individuals comfortably, enabling each person to maximize their time seeing the sharks beneath the sea. When not immersed in the water, one can observe the sharks from the expansive top and lower decks, providing unparalleled vistas and unrestricted photographic prospects. Following your exhilarating interaction with the great white sharks, we will proceed with a brief excursion into Shark Alley, according upon weather conditions. Shark Alley is famous for the multitude of sharks attracted to the channel to hunt the Cape Fur Seals of Geyser Rock, which is a breeding population of approximately 60,000 seals.
Upon returning to shore, steaming soup and bread are provided next to the inviting fireplace and heaters during the debriefing and great white shark conservation summary. Subsequently, you are at liberty to unwind and investigate Kleinbaai and the remainder of Gansbaai. Our chalet accommodations are located at or near the headquarters, allowing you to dine (at your own expense) at the à la carte restaurant or in the town.
Days 2 and 3: Gansbaai to Cape Town — South Africa
Following a substantial breakfast at the guesthouse, we proceed to the natural harbor of Kleinbaai and embark on the catamaran for our second shark cage diving excursion. Alongside great whites, the excursion typically features two or more members of the Marine Big Five (sharks, dolphins, whales, seals, and penguins), as well as several avian species.
We go on another maritime journey towards Dyer Island for additional intimate encounters with great white sharks. Following our morning excursion with the magnificent sharks, we return to the center for hot soup, bread, and a debriefing.
The whale viewing excursion occurs on the second or third day, adhering to a comparable itinerary as the shark diving expedition. Southern right whales are observed from August to November, perhaps earlier or later, while Bryde’s whales are sighted during the summer. Bottlenose and humpback dolphins, together with African penguins, are frequently observed. We are assured of observing a plethora of Cape Fur Seals at Geyser Rock, located near Dyer Island.
The two-and-a-half-hour whale trip commences with a comprehensive briefing from the marine biologist and guides accompanying you on the vessel. Subsequently, we proceed to the Kleinbaai harbor and embark for Pearly Beach, where the whale viewing commences. Following the observation of the whales, we embark on the shark diving vessels to observe the great white sharks. Subsequently, we proceed to Dyer Island to observe African Penguins and Cape Fur Seals at Geyser Rock. Dolphins are frequently observed en route, and the onboard marine biologist provides insights into the marine fauna and habitat throughout the journey. The team and biologist discuss the study and conservation efforts undertaken in this location.
Subsequently, you will return to Cape Town, where you will be deposited at a central place in the city, concluding this remarkable shark cage diving experience in South Africa.
Shark Diving Vessel, Enclosure & Equipment
This excursion utilizes a specially designed shark cage diving vessel optimized for safety, stability, comfort, and speed. This 46-foot (14m) catamaran boasts a capacious upper deck for observing sharks and other marine fauna, along with two platforms designated for bait and decoy handlers to optimize shark viewing experiences. This lightweight aluminum craft is propelled by four robust four-stroke 300 hp outboard engines and is outfitted with state-of-the-art computerized navigation technology. The distinctive vessel includes a central dining space, storage compartments for personal belongings, and separate restrooms for males and females.
The advanced shark diving cage is 4.5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in depth, easily housing eight divers simultaneously. The expertly designed cage is constructed from stainless steel, including 25mm² tubing encased in 6mm security mesh with 160mm intervals. The cage is firmly attached to the boat and is equipped with two covers, ensuring a secure, comfortable, and large viewing area.
This vacation guarantees a clean and dry wetsuit, with over 150 available options. Clients receive a premium mask, hoodie, weight belt, booties for the dive, and a clean, dry towel.
Recommended Items for Your Trip: Warm weatherproof attire, anti-nausea medication, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and binoculars.