Two standout shark encounters await in Gansbaai, South Africa.
The intimate Shark Alley experience ($98) puts certified divers face-to-face with great whites during a one-hour guided session.
For a fuller adventure, the Cage Diving tour ($119) spans up to 10 hours, including breakfast and extensive viewing time – no certification needed.
We love both tours for their professional guides, quality gear, and crystal-clear waters that showcase these magnificent predators.
Let’s check out these remarkable ocean adventures.
Key Points
- Scuba diving in Shark Alley, a renowned dive site in Gansbaai, offering encounters with great white sharks, tropical fish, and diverse marine life.
- Shark cage diving experience, with the opportunity to observe great white and seven gill cow sharks in a controlled environment.
- Advanced Open Water Certification required for Shark Alley diving, and medical clearance forms must be completed prior to participation.
- Excellent water visibility in Gansbaai enhances the diving experience, allowing for the observation of shark breaching and predation behavior.
- Highly regarded for organization, professionalism, and knowledgeable guides, providing positive guest experiences during scuba diving and shark cage diving tours.
Scuba Dive in Shark Alley
Frequently, scuba divers venture into Shark Alley, Gansbaai’s renowned dive site, to marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
For just $98.06, you can join a small group of up to 5 participants for a one-hour guided dive led by experienced, English-speaking instructors. During the dive, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter Great White Sharks, tropical fish, and other captivating creatures.
The visibility in Gansbaai’s waters is excellent, allowing you to explore the coral gardens and witness the sharks’ breaching and predation behavior. After a brief orientation and safety instructions, you’ll embark on a boat ride to the dive site.
All necessary diving equipment, including mask, fins, wetsuit, BCD, and regulator, is provided. Refreshments will be available on the boat.
To participate, you’ll need an Advanced Open Water Certification and must complete a medical clearance form. Remember to wait at least 18 hours before flying after your dive.
Read our full review: Scuba Dive in Shark Alley Review
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From Hermanus or Cape Town: Shark Cage Diving Experience
For those seeking a more immersive shark encounter, the Shark Cage Diving Experience from Hermanus or Cape Town offers an exhilarating opportunity. Priced from $118.68 per person, this 4.5- to 10-hour tour promises to bring you face-to-face with Great White and Seven Gill Cow Sharks in a safe, controlled environment.
The experience includes a breakfast, a safety briefing, and 2-4 hours of shark viewing at sea, followed by a lunch back at the lodge. All necessary scuba equipment is provided, and no prior diving experience is required.
Pickup and drop-off locations span Hermanus, Cape Town, and the White Shark Projects facility.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 330 reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its professionalism and organization. Guests particularly praise the knowledgeable guides and efficient transportation.
However, be mindful of potential seasickness and the age restriction of 6 years old. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
Read our full review: From Hermanus or Cape Town: Shark Cage Diving Experience Review
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Recap
Gans Bay offers some of the best scuba diving experiences in South Africa. Venture into Shark Alley and get up close with these magnificent creatures in a cage diving adventure. Whether you’re diving from Hermanus or Cape Town, the opportunity to encounter sharks in their natural habitat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.