The Western Cape is home to many attractions. From the steep inclines of Lion’s Head, the tranquil vineyards of the Cape Winelands to the icy waters of the Atlantic; there’s a heart-stopping adventure available for everyone, no matter your thrill-seeking level.
But there’s one watery adventure that stands out above the rest: shark cage diving. The Cape is renowned for offering this nail-biting activity, with these notorious predators calling spots like Gansbaai home as they prowl the waters in search of their next snack.
Take the plunge and walk on the wild side while admiring the beauty of these ocean dwellers! Here are five reasons to book your next shark cage diving trip:
A change in perspective
There’s nothing more life-changing than staring death in the eyes. Okay, perhaps that’s a little dramatic, but when you’re so close to danger, even if you’re separated by a cage, it can help switch your perspective on life. Maybe that thing you were too afraid to do isn’t so scary after all.
For the experience
For those of us who have a long list of adventures we’d love to get up to, ticking at least one thing off the list is a thrill in itself. Much like skydiving, saying you’ve been a few centimetres away from one of the ocean’s fiercest predators is a pretty cool talking point for your next braai.
Get over it!
Steven Spielberg’s infamous movie, Jaws, did no favours for those who have a fear of swimming in the ocean with nearly 4 in 10 individuals having an irrational fear of sharks. So, what better way to kick your fear than by hopping in the ocean and coming face-to-face with it. Shark cage diving can be a great way to realise these ocean critters are just trying to live their lives and they don’t need the extra burden of them having to worry about your fear. It also ties in with perspective. Overcoming your fear can help you realise the different ways your fear has been stopping you from doing some incredible things!
Pretend you’re on an expedition with National Geographic
Don’t forget your Go-Pro or camera for this one! It’s always fun to pretend you’re on an ocean adventure, snapping some pics for National Geographic or David Attenborough himself. It’s also a great way to make friends and family a little jealous or leave them speechless.
Become one with nature
Ah, nature! Immersing yourself in the beauty of Mother Nature has a wonderful way of resetting your inner compass and energizing your soul, and what better to literally dive into nature than with shark cage diving!
Where to go
White Shark Cage Diving Company
One of eight shark cage diving operators in Gansbaai, Shark Cage Diving Company is committed to the conservation of our oceans while ensuring you have an unbelievable experience in the “Great White Capital of the World.” Along with shark cage diving, it also offers a range of other activities such as quad biking, whale watching and ziplining.
- Cost: R2200
- Contact: sharkcagediving.co.za
Percy Tours
Gansbaai may not be the capital of the world in terms of sharks, but Hermanus is the place to go when looking to enjoy the company of whales. The ocean along this coast is teeming with marine life and is home to sharks of all kinds, including the Great White. Percy Tours has years of experience under its belt and offers a range of activities that go beyond shark cage diving such as boat trips with whales and wine tours. It’s a great option if you’re looking to stay close to Cape Town or enjoy the splendid wine and seafood this area provides.
- Cost: From R2350 to R2550
- Contact: percytours.com
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Picture: Unsplash