why shark cage diving
So, you are an adventurer, or you love sharks, or you really got into shark week this year and you are thinking it might be an awesome idea to jump into the waters and see one of these magnificent creatures. Well, you are not alone. Many people want to experience this as well and you can do it too. There are numerous tour operators offering cage diving to see great white sharks and the best part is that you do not need to be a diver to experience this.
shark cage diving in south africa
In South Africa, you can do these tours in Mossel Bay, Gansbaai, False Bay. There are many tour operators that include transfer from Cape Town there and back which is about a 2.5-hour drive. Our tour consisted of a breakfast and debriefing and then we headed out to the water where you take a boat out to a good spot and set anchor. You will want to dress in layers because the ride out was windy and chilly, and you will be chilly after your dive.
The participants on the boat were divided into different groups to those who went first, second and third and then anyone who wanted back in could go back in. You could also view the sharks from above on the ship. Be warned that it is very choppy and if you are prone to seasickness just take the medicine before even getting on the boat. There were numerous people vomiting, myself included, but they anticipate that and have fun little bags for your use.
They chum the water to entice the sharks over and they have a cage adhered to the side of the boat where you can go into. This cage is mostly submerged but has a part open the air on the top so you can come up for air wherever you choose. They provide you with a wetsuit you will enjoy because the water is cold. Make sure to bring your waterproof camera to capture this incredible experience while you are in the cage.
After the tour you could clean up and have a snack and then we were pilled back into the minivan and drove back to Cape Town.
top tips for shark cage diving
Bring Layers
You will want to dress in layers because the ride out was windy and chilly, and you will be chilly after your dive. They provide you with large orange coats to keep you warm as well. They will provide you with a wetsuit which you will want to wear since the water is so cold.
Prepare for sea sickness
Be warned that it is very choppy and if you are prone to seasickness just take the medicine before even getting on the boat. There were numerous people vomiting, myself included, but they anticipate that and have fun little bags for your use.
Bring your waterproof camera
Make sure to bring your waterproof camera to capture this incredible experience while you are in the cage. You will also have the opportunity since every takes turns to get some epic pictures from above of the sharks. I brought my DSLR camera for this and used a waterproof bag to keep it safe on deck.
Enjoy the thrill
This is a very unique experience to get up close to some incredibly fierce and beautiful creatures. Trust me you will love it!
My experience
If you want a chuckle be sure to read my experience shark cage diving to get a first hand of my misadventure.
