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
Travel To Cape Town Now
Map Of Hotels In Cape Town
Popular Accommodation Options In Cape Town

  • The Marly Camps Bay

    Rates from R4 500.00 per person

    Experience the elegance and luxury of The Marly Camps Hotel, set on the stunning Camps Bay beachfront in Cape Town. With ocean views and direct access to one of South Africa's most iconic beaches, this hotel perfectly blends sophistication and relaxation. Every detail is designed to create an unforgettable stay.

    With stylish rooms, luxurious finishes, and impeccable service, this hotel defines quality. Guests enjoy modern comforts and world-class amenities, blending indulgence and ease. The Marly's prime location above Cape Town's top restaurants and bars adds a vibrant dining and nightlife experience just steps away.

  • Welgelegen House

    Rates from R1 750.00 per person

    Located near the heart of Cape Town, Welgelegen Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful escape with a perfect mix of luxury and convenience. Set in two restored Victorian houses, it features seven elegant suites designed for comfort and style.

    At Welgelegen House's centre is a picturesque cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool. Charming balconies decorated with fragrant roses and jasmine complete the dreamy, tranquil, and luxurious setting.

  • The Portswood Hotel

    Rates from R1 760.00 per person

    The Portswood Hotel, located in the heart of the vibrant V&A Waterfront, offers a perfect mix of luxury, service, and stunning surroundings. With its stylish design and attention to detail, the hotel ensures a remarkable stay. Guests enjoy well-appointed rooms and suites, many with breathtaking views of Table Mountain and Cape Town's bustling harbour.

    Whether visiting for business or leisure, the Portswood Hotel provides comfort and elegance at every turn. Dining is a treat, with fine culinary options available in-house and just steps away in the lively V&A Waterfront. The chic bar is ideal for a crafted cocktail, while the serene swimming pool offers a relaxing escape.

  • Steenberg Hotel

    Rates from R4 130.00 per person

    Steenberg Hotel is a gem of luxurious hospitality nestled at the base of the breathtaking Constantiaberg Mountain. This five-star boutique hotel offers a spectacular blend of indulgence and refinement, combining world-class accommodations with a rich history dating back to 1682.

    Guests are treated to an exceptional experience that includes award-winning fine wines, exquisite dining crafted with meticulous attention to detail, a championship golf course for enthusiasts, and a serene spa and wellness retreat that leaves visitors feeling utterly rejuvenated.

  • Alphen Boutique Hotel

    Rates from R3 475.00 per person

    Nestled in the scenic Constantia Valley, the Alphen Boutique Hotel is a 5-star retreat surrounded by 11.5 acres of pristine gardens. Blending historic charm with modern boutique hotel amenities, it offers guests a truly unique and indulgent stay.

    Every detail of the Alphen Boutique Hotel showcases exceptional care, from its blend of historic charm and modern comforts to its refined dining experiences. With attentive service catering to your needs, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay in a stunning setting.

  • The Bay Hotel

    Rates from R4 190.00 per person

    The Bay Hotel is a stunning retreat with 78 beautifully designed rooms located right across from the iconic Camps Bay Beach. Each room is crafted for ultimate comfort, offering a luxurious yet welcoming stay.

    Camps Bay Beach, with its white sands, top restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, is one of the most sought-after destinations for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you're enjoying the beach, savouring great food, or soaking up the lively atmosphere, The Bay Hotel is the ideal base for an exceptional vacation.

  • Rijks Country House

    Rates from R1 250.00 per person

    Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Rijks Country House offers tranquillity and sophistication. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and dramatic mountains, this boutique retreat invites guests to escape daily life and enjoy the serene beauty of Tulbagh.

    Guests can enjoy gourmet dining with fresh, local ingredients and award-winning wines from Rijks Private Cellar. Whether exploring the landscape, relaxing by the pool, or savouring the Estate's offerings, Rijks Country House is a perfect destination for unwinding in understated splendour.

  • 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.