Gansbaai has become the most popular place to go shark cage diving in the Western Cape, and just two hours outside of Cape Town and set in the idyllic Overberg, this seaside town offers both convenience and charm. Offering a much cheaper overall experience than shark cage diving in False Bay in Cape Town while maintaining great shark cage diving standards and inviting guests to observe one of the world’s largest population of great white sharks, Gansbaai is undoubtedly one of the best places to try out this adrenaline experience.
The first
shark cage diving company was established in Gansbaai in 1995, putting the town on the map as one of South Africa’s very first shark tour operators. Since then, several other companies have sprung up, offering professionally run cage diving experiences, their own unique tours and specials, and the opportunity to embark on a truly invigorating experience.
Shark cage diving is now said to be the second most attractive aspect of South Africa for tourists, the first being the Kruger National Park.
Gansbaai has such a large population of great white sharks due to Shark Alley, a channel which lies between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. Dyer Island is a nature reserve and is home to thousands of African Penguins which are prey to the sharks. Geyser Rock is home to approximately sixty thousand Cape Fur Seals – the chosen choice of dinner for the formidable predators. Swimming in any waters nearby Gansbaai is prohibited as all sharks are in a hunting mode and are likely to confuse a human as a tasty meal.
Many guests visiting Gansbaai to go shark cage diving often opt to stay in
Gansbaai accommodation for a couple of nights. With more time on their hands, they can visit the nearby whale watching town of Hermanus, embark on a series of trail walks and tours, go horse riding and visit one of the many beaches and coastlines. There are also many shops, pubs and restaurants to explore, as well as local goods markets, art galleries and several wellness spas. Depending on how long you plan to stay, day trips can be made further along the coast.
Regardless of whether you’ve planned to visit Gansbaai to fulfill a lifelong dream of shark cage diving or spontaneously go diving, you’ll have an unbelievable experience. The large shark population, adventure tours and laid back atmosphere has put this small seaside town on the map while comfortable and luxurious Gansbaai accommodation continues to pamper guests after long days exploring the surrounding regions or while recovering from a huge adrenaline rush after their cage diving experience.
