Shark cage diving has become a permanent fixture on most adrenalin-junkies' must-do lists, along with bungee jumping, paragliding, sand-boarding and the like.
What makes this experience unique is that it involves a close encounter with one of the most-feared creatures on our planet - the great white shark. The rush comes not from speed or height but from being inches away from the snapping jaws of, well,
Jaws - the monster from the horror movie that gave children and adults of the 1970's nightmares and kept them from the ocean waves in droves.
Of course today we know that while certainly dangerous, sharks are incredible and beautiful creatures which have a bad reputation and are more than a little misunderstood. Part of the experience of shark cage diving is to learn more about these incredible beasts, and if you go with a reputable company they are sure to educate you in this regard while teaching you about the safety aspects of the cage dive itself.
The coastal region off Cape Town, South Africa, offers some of the best shark sightings available in the world. 8kms off the southernmost tip of Africa at Gansbaai lies a stretch of water known as Shark Alley. This channel between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock provides a sheltered hunting ground for the great white shark community. On the menu are Cape fur seals and Jackass penguins, both of which the waters here are full. This is one of the best locations for experiencing shark cage diving in Cape Town as you are almost certain to enjoy great viewing opportunities.
Other popular locations for shark cage diving around the Cape include picturesque Hermanus (also great for whale watching in season) and the Mediterranean-style town of Mossel Bay, further up the Garden Route.
So what does the experience involve?
First off, no scuba-diving experience or training is required. You do need to be brave and to stay calm! Reputable shark cage diving companies will run you through the basics before you head out on the boat. Expect to be out for at least two hours - maybe up to six depending on your tour guides and the weather conditions.
Once anchor has been dropped, bait is set out and then you need to wait for the big boys to show up. The sharks are lured close to the boat to give everyone on board the chance to view these magnificent animals. Then it's time for the first cager to enter the water. The strong metal cages are moored to the side of the craft and are generally custom-made either with steel bars or with galvanized steel mesh, providing a totally safe environment. The tops of the cages float 23cm above the water. Once inside the cage you will be able to share the watery environment with the shark - a thrilling, heart-stopping and often emotional experience.
For the less-adventurous even viewing the sharks from the boat is a fantastic experience - one you'll love sharing with friend and families back home time and again.
Shark cage diving is an experience of a lifetime and those who have done it are full of praise for the experience.
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