
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
POD Boutique Hotel
Rates from R3 255.00 per person
Escape to POD Boutique Hotel, the perfect spot for a luxurious getaway in Camps Bay. Just steps from the Atlantic Ocean and Camps Bay's stunning beach, POD offers 15 stylish suites that blend elegance with modern simplicity. Here, luxury is a way of life.
POD's prime location is just minutes from Camps Bay Beach, with lively restaurants and bars only a three-minute walk away. Whether you want a peaceful retreat or the buzz of Camps Bay's social scene, POD offers the best of both worlds.
Kensington Place
Rates from R3 250.00 per person
Perched on the slopes of Table Mountain, Kensington Place is a boutique hotel that blends luxury and tranquillity. With panoramic views of Cape Town's skyline, it offers the perfect mix of city convenience and serene escape. The hotel features 5-star amenities designed for your comfort.
Kensington Place is one of the top lodging options in Cape Town. From the stylish rooms to the attentive service, every detail reflects quality and care. Guests can relax in a peaceful oasis just moments from the city's attractions and dining scene.
Camps Bay Village
Rates from R2 100.00 per night
At Camps Bay Village, you'll discover a stunning collection of luxurious crash pads, charming seaside studios, inviting garden studios, and deluxe holiday villas. Perfectly suited for a romantic escape or an adventure-packed family getaway, this accommodation truly stands out.
These exceptional villas not only offer incredible value but also provide an unmatched combination of comfort, style, and location. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring the city, Camps Bay Village ensures an unforgettable stay.
Marine Hermanus Hotel
Rates from R3 645.00 per person
Discover the ultimate luxury and relaxation at the Marine Hermanus Hotel, with stunning views of Walker Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and majestic mountain ranges from private balconies. The Marine is one of South Africa's top hotels, and for good reason.
Enjoy fine dining from two in-house restaurants or sample some of Overberg's best wines with a wine-tasting experience. Rediscover yourself or reconnect with your loved ones at The Marine Hermanus Hotel – an oasis of bliss that will take your breath away!
Erinvale Estate Hotel And Spa
Rates from ZAR 2 950.00 per person sharing
Enter the elegant world of Erinvale Hotel and Spa, located in Somerset West, with Cape Town's stunning vistas as your backdrop. This luxury boutique hotel blends historical charm with modern sophistication, offering guests a sanctuary of relaxation and indulgence.
It's undoubtedly a top choice for a peaceful escape, romantic getaway, or memorable family holiday. Erinvale offers unmatched experiences with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional amenities.
Waterfront Village
Rates from R5 150.00 per night
Experience unparalleled luxury with a stay at the Waterfront Village, an exquisite retreat nestled in the heart of the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct. With a stunning collection of 80 private residences, each meticulously designed with exceptional attention to detail, these accommodations offer a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence.
From the thoughtfully curated amenities to the serene atmosphere, every element of your stay promises to pamper and delight. Without a doubt, this is the ultimate setting to immerse yourself in Cape Town's charm while enjoying the pinnacle of elegance and relaxation.
Ellerman Villa One
Rates from R180 000.00 per night
Ellerman Villa One offers a truly extraordinary escape. Overlooking Bakoven, Bantry Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and the ocean, this three-story villa defines coastal luxury. With five stunning bedrooms, a private deck, and a pool, every detail is designed for a seamless, indulgent stay.
The villa includes a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, giving guests the freedom to create their own experiences. Offering privacy and independence from Ellerman House, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking sophistication and exclusivity.
The Hyde All Suite Hotel
Rates from R2 100.00 per person
The Hyde All Suite Hotel is the perfect choice for a luxurious stay in Cape Town's vibrant Sea Point district. With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, and Signal Hill, it offers an unforgettable experience in one of South Africa's most beautiful regions.
Each suite is thoughtfully designed for luxury and comfort, catering to the needs of discerning travellers. With plush furnishings and a smart layout, these suites offer a sanctuary for an unforgettable Western Cape and South Africa visit.