The great white shark, one of the most feared creatures in the world, is a must see when visiting South Africa. Stepping into the cage, submerging yourself into their territory, and getting a personal eye-to-eye encounter is such a thrill and will surely get your adrenaline going. Your encounter with the great white sharks is situated along Dyer Island, just a few kilometers from the fishing village of Gansbaai. I highly recommend Great White Shark Tours. They provide personalized attention, the staff are professional and experienced, and most importantly, they offer a full refund if no sharks are seen. The best time for maximum visibility is May through September.

 

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If traveling from Cape Town, the day kicks off with a scenic drive through the town of Hermanus. Hermanus offers unparalleled scenic beauty, bustling markets, and the opportunity to whale watch right along the bay. Once on site, you’ll be served a non-greasy continental breakfast, make any final payments for your dive, and receive a safety briefing from your dive masters.

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Town of Hermanus

Beautiful Scenary in Hermanus

Beautiful - Town of Hermanus

The Dive

After boarding the Apex Predator boat, all divers will make the 5 mile journey to Dyer Island. The cage is located on the side of the boat and comfortably holds 5 to 6 divers at a time. Once ready, each diver will secure themselves by holding the cross bar at the top of the cage and wait for instructions from the dive master. Each session takes approximately 15-20 minutes as divers submerge half a meter below the surface. Although the sharks may brush against the cage, rest assure that they will never attack the cage – Just avoid sticking your hands through the cage and no taunting!

Leaving the Gansbaai Harbour to Shark Dive

The Shark Cage

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Shark Numero 2

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Seems Hungry

Falling for the bait...

What To Know

  • The trip begins at approx. 10AM (you will receive confirmation after 5PM the night before from your dive master) and returns back to the harbor between 2PM and 4PM.
  • A light breakfast will be served prior to departure and final payments can be made on site.
  • A variety of snacks, cool drinks, and fruits will be provided on-board.
  • If prone to sea sickness, consider taking Dramamine or wearing a sea sickness patch.
  • It’s recommended to book in advance and allow 2 days diving in the event of bad weather.
  • Visibility is normally best March through September.
  • No sharks seen = full refund!
  • No experience needed; All diving equipment provided.
  • A DVD of the dive is provided at an additional cost at the end of the tour (R250/USD22).
  • What to bring: Warm clothing including a change of underwear, swim suit, a cap, sun block, camera & film are essential items for the trip.
  • Costs: Dive – R1750pp/USD150 (Adults) | Cape Town Transfer (RT) – R350pp/USD30
                                                                       Featured image:Travelblat.com
South Africa