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
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With attentive staff on hand to assist with any needs or requests, The Hyde Hotel in Sea Point promises an exquisite getaway that will leave one feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
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Rates from R2 225.00 per person
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Alphen Boutique Hotel offers the most luxurious and convenient travel experience, with attentive service and exquisite dining options to make your stay in Constantia a truly memorable one.
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Rates from R2 245.00 per person
5-star hotel accommodation in the heart of the Franschhoek valley complimented by the famous Monneaux Restaurant, Cape Winelands accommodation, with 14 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites.
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Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family holiday, this is the lodging for you!
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These Villas in Cape Town offer exceptional value and location.
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Rates from R3 600.00 per person
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Enjoy ultimate relaxation and opulence as you savour the panoramic views of pristine white beaches and shimmering crystal seas that will make your getaway an unforgettable experience.
Just a few minutes away you can find south beach Camps Bay beach, several restaurants, and various bars, all within an easy stroll of less than three minutes.
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Rates from R4 465.00 per person
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With so much to offer, it's no wonder the Twelve Apostles is a favourite destination for travellers looking for an unforgettable and unique Camps Bay experience.
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Rates from R5 700.00 per person
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