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

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    Rates from R2 440.00 per person

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    This Stellenbosch 5-Star Hotel is set in a spectacular garden setting with mountains and vineyards as a backdrop.

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    Rates from R1 710.00 per person

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    From comfortable rooms and suites to views of Table Mountain and the Cape Town harbour, the Portswood Hotel is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious stay whether it be business or pleasure.

    Enjoy fine dining options at one of the many restaurants' in-house or a short walk away in the V&A Waterfront or relax with a drink at the chic bar or swimming pool.

  • Schoone Oordt Country House

    Rates from R2 125.00 per person

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    Surrounded by breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush vegetation and tranquil farmlands, this elegant retreat offers ten luxurious suites that have been carefully designed to provide guests with an unforgettable stay.

    Whether you are travelling alone or with family and friends, Schoone Oordt Country House is sure to be your home away from home.

  • Quarters Hermanus

    Rates from R1 700.00 per person

    Experience magnificent luxury in the heart of Hermanus when you stay at Harbour Square Rooms & Residences. The apartments are within easy walking distance of the spectacular Atlantic Ocean, from where in season, one can view some of the best whale watching in the world.

    These luxurious apartments boast an expansive living area with a dining space (with a fully equipped kitchen) that opens onto a balcony.

    Indulge in contemporary style and convenience with air conditioning, heating, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Make yourself at home while enjoying all of the amenities that our space has to offer!

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    Rates from R3 360.00 per person

    Situated on the majestic slopes of Signal Hill, Camps Bay Retreat is a five-star boutique hotel boasting sumptuous luxury and unparalleled views.

    Nestled in an oasis of 4 acres of a small nature reserve and boasting breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Retreat provides a tranquil escape from the hectic pace of city living.

    This luxurious retreat boasts unparalleled amenities, a calming ambience, and attentive staff that combine to create an unforgettable experience sure to leave you feeling immensely revived.

  • Grande Roche Hotel

    Rates from R2 650.00 per person

    The Grande Roche is a celebrated international hotel, famous for its exquisite location in the centre of the beautiful town of Paarl as well as for its luxurious Cape Winelands Accommodation and award-winning cuisine.

    One of the best vineyard hotel options in the Western Cape awaits all visitors.

  • Commodore Hotel

    Rates from R2 225.00 per person

    Located in a prime location, the Commodore Hotel offers 236 elegantly furnished superior rooms as well as suites for those seeking extra space and amenities.

    Each room and is equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities, a bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower, ensuring that guests have everything they need for an enjoyable stay.

    The Commodore Hotel provides everything you need for a perfect holiday or business trip.

    From chic bars to elegant restaurants to well-equipped meeting spaces, the Commodore in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town has it all.

  • Welgelegen House

    Rates from R2 475.00 per person

    Indulge in the peace and luxury of Welgelegen House, situated conveniently near the hustle and bustle of Cape Town's city bowl.

    This striking hotel comprises two Victorian houses and seven lavish suites, linked together by a magnificent cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool encircled by vibrant balconies adorned with iceberg roses and star jasmine.

    At the Welgelegen House, you will discover a tranquil abode to just chill and appreciate the breathtaking sites, sounds and attractions of Cape Town.