
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
Winchester Mansions
Rates from R2 740.00 per person
Immerse yourself in luxury at the Winchester Mansions Hotel in the middle of the famed Platinum Mile in Sea Point. Boasting four stars and incredible views that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean seaboard to Robben Island in the distance.
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Tulbagh Hotel
Rates from R975.00 per person
The Tulbagh Boutique Hotel is one of the most charming and central places to stay, perfectly located to explore historic Church Street. Built in 1859, the main hotel features a restaurant, a cosy bar, and an inviting pool.
Guests are treated to a luxurious selection of contemporary-styled rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to blend modern comfort with classic sophistication. This exceptional hotel offers the perfect base for a truly memorable stay.
Villas at Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R5 200.00 per person
Villas at Franschhoek Country House offer what is, without a doubt, some of the finest stays in the region. Spectacularly spacious at 100sqm each, the suites feature a separate lounge, an elegant bedroom, and a luxurious bathroom, all designed with exceptional attention to detail.
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The Dock House
Rates from R5 910.00 per person
The Dock House is one of Cape Town's most exclusive boutique hotels, overlooking the iconic V&A Waterfront. With just six beautifully designed rooms and manicured lawns, it offers a peaceful escape. Guests can enjoy a private bar and a serene pool, ensuring every luxury is within reach.
What sets The Dock House apart is its blend of exclusivity and comfort, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from the vibrant Waterfront. With impeccable service and attention to detail, this boutique hotel delivers unmatched relaxation and luxury. For a serene yet indulgent stay in Cape Town, The Dock House is a must.
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.
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.
Kensington Place
Rates from R3 050.00 per person
Perched atop the picturesque slopes of Table Mountain, Kensington Place is a lavish boutique hotel with breathtaking views of Cape Town's bustling downtown skyline.
At this intimate boutique hotel, visitors can enjoy a harmonious blend of city convenience and serene peacefulness.
Boasting 5-star amenities and services, Kensington Place has established itself as an ideal lodging option for those exploring Cape Town.
Guests can enjoy a tranquil refuge while still being near the numerous attractions and restaurants that make this bustling city unique.
Queen Victoria Hotel
Rates from R4 720.00 per person
A stay at the Queen Victoria Hotel offers a memorable, regal experience against Cape Town's iconic waterfront and harbour. Located on the V&A Waterfront, the hotel provides stunning views of Table Mountain and the lively harbour, blending vibrancy with serenity.
The Queen Victoria Hotel offers 35 luxurious suites and rooms that combine contemporary elegance with comfort. Every detail, from plush furnishings to curated décor, reflects a commitment to quality and style. Here, luxury is the standard.