Shark Cage Diving Cape Town

Shark Cage Diving Cape Town

If you live in South Africa, shark cage diving is one of those questionable activities which divides opinion. On the one hand, you have certain conservationists who claim that chumming (luring sharks by throwing bloody bait into the water) is dangerous and alters the balance of marine life and makes sharks lose their fear of humans. On the other hand, the shark diving operators who repudiate such claims and state that they do more to improve the image of the great white than umpteen researchers or reports.

I admit that with a certain amount of excitement and anticipation, my daughters and I went to the great white shark cage diving capital of the word Gansbaai (2.5 hours east of Cape Town) to see for ourselves.

We were not disappointed. After a hearty breakfast at the HQ of Shark Diving Unlimited, a briefing, distribution of some wet weather kit (winter had finally arrived in the Cape) we were on our way. Not everyone dived on the boat; some people were simply content to see the sharks up close from the deck. The divers descended into a cage strapped to the side of the vessel.

The water was cold, even with a thick wetsuit but the experience of seeing such a huge, graceful animal underwater was exhilarating. Several times, sharks rammed into the cage to get at the bait that had floated too close. The biggest great white we saw was about 4 metres. The crew were always professional and interested, all of them being ambassadors to rehabilitate the image of the great white.

My compliments to Jason and his crew. We had as much time diving as we wanted but the cold got to even the hardiest of us, and after about three hours we made our way back to port.

This is not an adrenalin trip. The feeling was one of excitement and awe and appreciation of beauty. These animals are streamlined for the ocean, the ultimate of the alpha predators. It is estimated that there are about one thousand great whites left in the sea, less than the tiger population. Tigers are revered while the great white suffers from ignorant prejudice, with many people rejoicing when one is killed. If great whites were manhunters, the beaches around the coast of South Africa would be devoid of human life.

If there is one thing we learnt this day, it was the appreciation of the majesty of this animal, the lions of the oceans.

Shark cage diving Cape Town by Uyaphi.com

Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
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Popular Accommodation Options In Cape Town

  • Cape Milner Hotel

    Rates from R2 848.00 per person

    Discover the 4-star Cape Milner Hotel, located in the heart of Cape Town. With 57 stylish rooms offering stunning views of Table Mountain or the city, this hotel is the perfect retreat. Whether for a romantic escape or a family adventure, every detail is designed to make your stay unforgettable.

    The Cape Milner blends modern sophistication with warm hospitality. With a range of room options and an exceptional on-site restaurant, it caters to every traveller. From enjoying fine cuisine to relaxing in a well-appointed room, every moment is designed to delight.

  • Glen Avon Lodge

    Rates from R2 745.00 per person

    Glen Avon Lodge is the perfect retreat for anyone looking to escape the hustle and enjoy serene luxury. Nestled in the stunning Constantia Valley Winelands, it offers an idyllic setting with breathtaking views of the Constantiaberg mountains—a sight that soothes the soul.

    Glen Avon Lodge stands out for its prime location, minutes from vineyards like Buitenverwachting, Steenberg, and Groot Constantia—a perfect retreat for wine lovers and explorers. Glen Avon combines luxury and comfort with beautifully designed accommodations and meals.

  • Grande Roche Hotel

    Rates from R3 265.00 per person

    The Grande Roche is a standout destination for travellers seeking luxury in the picturesque town of Paarl. Set in the Cape Winelands, this renowned hotel offers stunning views, world-class accommodations, and award-winning cuisine.

    From its prime location to its impeccable attention to detail, the Grande Roche is a true gem among vineyard hotels in the Western Cape, promising guests an unforgettable stay filled with indulgence and charm.

  • Schoone Oordt Country House

    Rates from R2 000.00 per person

    Experience the luxury of Schoone Oordt Country House in Swellendam, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Overberg. Surrounded by rolling hills, lush vegetation, and peaceful farmlands, this elegant retreat offers ten carefully designed suites for an unforgettable stay.

    Whether you're travelling solo or with loved ones, Schoone Oordt Country House offers a warm, welcoming retreat that feels like home. Located in the heart of Swellendam, this boutique hotel combines luxury and comfort with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

  • Plumwood Inn

    Rates from R1 250.00 per person

    The seven beautifully tranquil and elegantly designed rooms at Plumwood Inn exude a serene sophistication and timeless charm, making it a standout retreat. This is a place where every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure guests are unobtrusively pampered.

    From the moment you wake, you're greeted by glorious views, the gentle melody of birdsong, and the crisp, clean air—a truly rejuvenating experience. Plumwood Inn offers an unparalleled combination of luxury and peacefulness, creating the perfect escape for those seeking refined comfort and natural beauty.

  • Mount Nelson Hotel

    Rates from R12 250.00 per person

    Nestled in a garden oasis, the Mount Nelson Hotel is ideally located near Cape Town’s top attractions, including the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and Signal Hill. Its location offers the perfect balance of city exploration and peaceful retreat.

    Every detail of the Mount Nelson exudes sophistication. From its luxurious facilities to exceptional service, everything is crafted for the comfort and delight of guests. Whether you’re relaxing at the hotel or exploring Cape Town’s wonders, this legendary establishment promises an unforgettable experience.

  • Abalone Guest Lodge

    Rates from ZAR 2 960.00 per person sharing

    Nestled against the serene backdrop of Hermanus's picturesque coastline, Abalone Guest Lodge offers a luxury retreat that epitomises coastal elegance. Boasting a prime location at Sievers Point, Abalone is an oasis of tranquillity, offering bespoke accommodations with breathtaking views.

    The lodge's intimate size and attentive service ensure a personalised stay, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway amidst the natural splendour of the Cape Overberg.

  • O On Kloof

    Rates from R1 900.00 per person

    O on Kloof Boutique Hotel & Spa is an exceptional gem nestled in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant Sea Point suburb. Offering an unparalleled blend of South African hospitality and luxurious comfort, this boutique hotel is perfectly positioned for guests to explore the city's top attractions with ease.

    Every detail at O on Kloof has been meticulously crafted to provide an indulgent escape. From the heated pool that invites you to unwind to the rejuvenating spa treatments designed to soothe both body and mind, every moment here feels like a treat.