There are a wide variety of extreme sports that are enjoyed by tourists. Sky diving, paragliding, canoeing, and ice climbing are just a few to name.
Among all of them is one of the most intimidating yet thrilling sports available, shark cage diving. There are more than 500 species of sharks in the ocean, and there are endless opportunities to see them in their natural habitat. Why not undertake a shark cage diving trip to come face-to-face with these creatures?
Imagining being locked up while huge sharks circle you is not a very pleasant picture. However, it is one of the most exciting experiences you can ever have and helps tackle misconceptions about these creatures as well.
It is also one of the best ways to face that fear and see these animals up close.
What is shark cage diving?
Shark cage diving is performed underwater, where a few divers or participants are locked inside a metal cage. The sharks freely swim around you, and you can observe them from up close. The cage acts as a protective barrier between you and the creature, as well as protecting the sharks.
It is usually used for scientific observations by researchers, underwater cinematography, and tourist activities. This activity has boosted tourism and helped employ local people.
Cage diving is safe, and no diving skills are needed. However, before you start, you will receive safety lessons and learn how to use the equipment.
Before your arrival, air tanks are filled, boats are fuelled, cylinders are placed inside the cages, and all equipment is arranged. Your only responsibility is to follow the instructions given by the guide and enjoy the rest of the experience.
Inside the metal cage, you can learn more about sharks and their conservation. This activity also allows for incredible photography.
But why should you consider going shark cage diving? Shark cage diving is one of the top things to do if you are someone who loves adrenaline and adventure. It is thrilling to be so close to an animal with such a fearsome reputation. Yet, it can also be a humbling experience as you can see sharks in their natural habitat and learn more about these misunderstood species.
Shark diving in South Africa
You can do shark diving in popular destinations like the USA, Mexico, Australia, and many more. However, one of the most famous and iconic places for this activity remains the country of South Africa.
In South Africa, sharks are considered a marine tourism species. There are legally controlled tourism activities that decrease disturbances and protect the animals from injury or threat. This sport has given rise to eco-tourism in the country and has become popular among tourists. The best place to shark cage dive in the country is none other than Gansbaai.
Gansbaai and great white sharks
Gansbaai is a small fishing town long known as the world’s best-known great white shark destination, with the sharks patrolling its coastline and ranging as far as Mozambique and Madagascar. One important note, though: since around 2017 great white numbers here have dropped sharply, linked to killer whales moving in and preying on them. Sightings are no longer reliable, and operators now often see bronze whaler (copper) sharks instead, so it is worth checking recent conditions before you book.
The town is just 2 hours drive away from Cape Town. You can have an excellent cage-diving experience at Kleinbaai Harbour. The harbour serves as an entry point for cage-diving expeditions to the islands.
Dyer Island and Geyser Island are two unique places where you can spot a high percentage of great white sharks. These islands are situated 12 km from Gansbaai and are located next to each other. Other marine life and wildlife species such as whales, dolphins, African penguins, Cape Gannets, and more can be spotted.
Geyser Rock is also home to a huge colony of Cape fur seals. The many penguins and seals here draw sharks, so sightings are often good, though never certain.
You can also combine a shark trip with whale watching, as whales are generally seen from June to November.
The best time to go
During the South African winter, which runs from May to October, you have exceptionally high chances of seeing white sharks. Although sharks are seen throughout the year, these months are ideal for going shark cage diving in South Africa. Especially on clear mornings, several people embark on this sport near the harbour.
Shark diving trips take weather and tidal waves into account. Since the South African weather can become unpredictable at times, it is recommended to select a tour that lasts for a few days. A shark cage diving trip is determined depending on the activity of the sharks. A responsible tour operator will track and follow groups of sharks that are in the vicinity instead of attracting sharks immorally.
You must always choose tour operators that spread awareness about the conservation of sharks and responsibly educate people about them. By contributing to shark tourism, you are also supporting local people, such as the Gansbaai fishing community, who help keep sharks safe from illegal activity.
By embarking on a shark cage diving trip, you will understand that sharks are far from the terrifying creatures they are often labelled as. They are, in fact, selective, cautious, and intelligent species.
There are loads of opportunities to get up close with sharks, whether you are swimming or diving. Shark cage diving is fun, safe, and responsible, and you can enjoy a genuinely memorable experience.
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