Once a year in June and July, the normally sleepy Wild Coast of South Africa becomes frantic with activity. Divers, photographers and bird watchers from all over the world descend to witness one of the greatest natural underwater phenomenons - the Sardine Run.

Catch your flight from London to Johannesburg to connect with a flight to Durban. Upon arrival at the airport you will me met by your driver who will transfer you to your lodge in Umkomass, Aliwal Shoal. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoy the facilities at the lodge.

The following morning you will transfer down the south coast to Port St. John’s - a 4 hour drive. Relax for the afternoon in prepartion for your next few days of action packed ’sardine action’.

Millions of sardines move from the cold waters of the Cape towards the warmer waters of Durban. A thick black shoal, up to 15km in length, snakes its way along the coast being pursued by determined hunters. Sharks, dolphins, game fish and whales attack from below, while 10,000 gannets provide an aerial assault. Dolphins work as a team, herding the sardines into tight ’bait balls’, pushing them toward the surface. Once in this state, the sardines are easy pickings. Zambezi, hammerhead, copper and bronze whaler sharks join in the action, gorging themselves on the silver sardines.

How it works
Each morning the crew receive updates on the location of the sardines. The RIB launches as close to the action as possible and then the chase begins! You get to spend the day out at sea, enthralled by the action above and below the water, getting up close and personal with many of the oceans creatures. Due to the speed at which the shoals travel, and the dynamic nature of following the predators, you will often spend most of your time in the water free diving only using scuba when conditions are optimal. Throughout the day the water erupts with bait balls created by the passing predators and you get the chance to see it all...

On day nine you have a morning of diving before heading back up to Aliwal Shoal where you will spend the night. The following morning you will be transferred back to the airport to catch your flight home.

Why not stay longer - it’s your trip, tailor it how you want it!
Extra days of shark diving at Aliwal Shoal can be arranged for ~£20 per dive.
Tiger shark diving can also be included for £85 per person.
Great white shark diving at Gansbaai (nr Cape Town) for £85 per person

You could also add a Big Five safari – prices on request.

SPECIAL CHARTERS AVIALABLE FOR DIVE CLUBS - EXCLUSIVE USE OF BOAT DURING TRIP.


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