Description
Shark Cage Experience -Â Full Day Gansbaai
Gansbaai, 2 ½ hours from Cape Town is home to Dyer Island and Shark Alley. Generally Great White shark sightings in Gansbaai have been well below normal in the past few years with sightings of these rare animals being unpredictable and sporadic.
On days when great whites are not seen another species of shark, the Bronze Whaler (Copper shark) has become a frequently encountered species in this area.
Environment and Education
There are 8 other operators in this area and it can be confusing as to which is the best company to book with, so this is where we can advise you. There is no extra charge for us to book you on this tour and the benefit to you is that you will be going with a reputable operation that offers an environmentally friendly and educational experience. Every effort is made not to intentionally feed the sharks.
The Boat and Cage
A 46 feet (14 m) first of its kind aluminium boat, specifically designed for shark cage diving and built for stability, speed and superior safety and comfort. Sleek, streamlined and elegant with amazing power and steadiness, she is powered by four large 300 hp outboard engines. The vessel can comfortably accommodate 37 passengers plus the crew. Facilities include: A canvas dressing cubicle for clients who prefer more privacy (upon request), designated toilets for males and females, double staircase on opposite sides of the boat provide easy access and a smooth flow of traffic to the spacious upper viewing deck. Prior to your trip, guests will enjoy a presentation on the sharks and the trip. The trip is hosted by a resident marine biologist and subject to weather.
The cage accommodates 9 guests on a rotational basis.
Safety and Cage Diving
Your safety is paramount. Divers will be supervised by a Dive Master and we have all the required permits and safety equipment on board.
We make use of a securely designed steel cage, which floats on the surface, with divers no more than 1m below the surface.
All dives are breath-hold which is comfortable and safe – NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED!
The best way to see the sharks is to simply hold your breath!
Surface viewing
Sharks are brought to the surface, providing brilliant surface viewing from the safety of the shark-viewing deck of the boat. The shark handlers are trained to bring the sharks close to the side of the boat. So, for those not wanting to get in the cage, you will still get to see these amazing animals up close and personal. The price is the same for diving and surface viewing.
Video link footage of your adventure
The service of a professional underwater videographer who is highly experienced in this field is on board. Your personal experience will be captured on a high quality video / link (above and underwater) and this link will be made available to you after the tour at a minimal cost. Capture this once-in-a-lifetime personal experience and take it home to show to your family and friends.
Rate
There is a conservation fee of R25.00 per person payable direct to the operator on the day of the trip.
Shark Cage Dive â Adult | R2,430.00 (US$ approx.) – surface viewing and cage diving are the same rate |
Shark Cage Dive â Children under 12 (Under 5 is free) | R1,380.00 (US$ approx.) – surface viewing and cage diving are the same rate |
Door to Door transfers from Cape Town | R600.00 per person |
Proposed Itinerary (subject to change based on weather and tides)
NOTE: Due to travel times, this is a full day activity.
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Meeting in Gansbaai (This is dependent on weather and sea conditions and could be as early as 06:00 or as late as 14:00- exact time will be confirmed with you the day beforehand) |
Breakfast and an informative talk on the sharks and area |
Launch – 3 to 4 hours at sea based on shark activity and sea conditions |
Tea/coffee -watch DVD of your trip |
Arrive in Cape Town depending on launch time. |
Trip includes:
- Breakfast
- All dive gear (mask. wetsuit, weight-belt)
- Snacks and soft drinks on board
- Towels
- Waterproof/windproof jackets
Voucher for another trip should no sharks be sighted  Â
All trips are weather dependant.