Gansbaai Shark Watching From The Boat. Do You Have To Dive?

Created by Colleen | Updated : 4 September 2024 |

Gerry was determined to see sharks and whilst I’m usually a huge fan of whale watching, in Cape Town, it was all about the sharks. But there was a catch.  Every search we did talked about shark cage diving, which Gerry had absolutely no interest in.

But the good news is that you don’t need to cage dive to have an incredible experience shark watching from the boat!

If you’re like Gerry and want the thrill of seeing these majestic creatures in the wild, without the need to jump into the water, then keep reading. We’ll share our firsthand experience of shark watching from the boat and show you why it’s still an unforgettable adventure!

seeing sharks upclose like this, mouth open as they approach whilst Shark Watching From The Boat in Gansbaai in South Africa

Gansbaai Shark Watching : No Diving Required

Gansbaai is famously known as the shark capital of the world and has been at the heart of shark research and conservation for many years. Sharks, including Great White Sharks, are drawn to Gansbaai and whilst most tours promote the cage diving experience, dig a little deeper and you’ll find that you can still see plenty from the boat too.

Sharks often come up to the surface, giving those on board an excellent view. In fact, Gerry quickly became our chief spotter, calling out whenever a shark approached. He had such a great vantage point that he probably saw more action than those in the water!

Gerry often had a better view of the sharks than the divers in the cage, like this view of the sharks circling and birds flying overhead

Do You Need To Go In The Cage?

Gansbaai is the place to go for shark watching but do you have to go in the cage? For Gerry, this was never up for debate. He’s not a strong swimmer, he hates cold water and the thought of being confined in a cage underwater with sharks swimming around was his idea of a holiday nightmare.

But he was still eager to see sharks. Thankfully, staying on the boat is a perfectly viable option. There’s absolutely no obligation to go into the cage and you certainly won’t be alone if you choose not to dive.

What You See From The Boat

From the deck, you’ll have a fantastic view of the sea.  Many sharks swim close to the surface and you’ll see them circling the boat, swimming through the water and sometimes even breaching. Indeed, our very first sighting was a Bronze Whaler shark breaching near the boat.  The cage divers missed it as they were busy getting into the cage and so Gerry claimed the first sighting.

What You See From The Cage

The view from the cage offers a different experience, but it’s not necessarily better. The water can be a bit murky and visibility is usually limited to a metre or less. You won’t see as far as you can from the boat but you do get an incredibly close-up view of the sharks, sometimes inches away. And that is very thrilling!

you have a restricted view under water but you do get to see sharks up close like this one

Why Choose Gansbaai For Shark Watching?

Gansbaai is about a 2-hour drive from Cape Town.  Here nature has created the perfect habitat for sharks and local tour operators and conservationists have extensive knowledge of shark patterns and behaviours.

Situated between two major ocean currents, Gansbaai attracts a diverse range of marine life and remains one of the few places in the world where you can still spot Great White Sharks (although sightings have become rarer). Gansbaai is a hotspot for sharks for several reasons:

  • Gansbaai is home to the famous Shark Alley, a narrow channel of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. This area is renowned for its dense population of Cape fur seals, a primary food source for Great White Sharks.
  • Gansbaai sits at the meeting point of two major ocean currents: the warm Agulhas from the Indian Ocean and the cool Benguela from the Atlantic Ocean. This creates a nutrient-rich environment that attracts a wide variety of marine life, and the cooler waters are particularly favoured by Great White Sharks.
  • The underwater landscape of Gansbaai features deep channels, rocky reefs, and kelp forests, which provide an ideal hunting ground for Great White Sharks.
  • Parts of the waters around Gansbaai are designated as marine protected areas, which help safeguard local ecosystems and offer a relatively undisturbed habitat.
Gansbaai at sunrise at the start of our tour, the sea is very calm and perfect for shark watching

Are There Great White Sharks Around Cape Town?

Great White Sharks are found around Gansbaai and until 2017, sightings were quite common. However, in recent years, sightings have become less frequent and the decline in their numbers has raised concern. Our captain explained why numbers might be decreasing:

  •  The presence of orcas, particularly two individuals known as “Port” and “Starboard,” has been a significant factor. These orcas have been seen hunting and killing Great White Sharks in the region.
  • Sharks are often accidentally caught in fishing nets meant for other species, a practice known as bycatch, which can severely impact populations.
  • Changes in ocean temperatures due to climate change are causing sharks to seek cooler waters. Additionally, shifts in sea temperatures affect the availability of prey, which may force sharks to migrate elsewhere.
  • Illegal fishing and poaching continue to pose a threat. Practices like shark finning, where sharks are captured for their fins has a devastating impact on shark numbers.
  • Marine Pollution, including plastic waste, chemical runoff and other contaminants, as well as the destruction of breeding and feeding grounds, have a serious impact on shark populations.
  • Increased boat traffic, noise pollution and human presence in traditional shark habitats can disturb sharks and contribute to the decline in sightings.
seagulls flying around the boat; there are more gulls than great white sharks!

Can You See Other Sharks From Gansbaai?

While Great White Shark sightings have decreased, you’re still very likely to see other species. We went with realistic expectations but to our delight spotted at least eight sharks.

  • Great White Shark are the most iconic species in Gansbaai, though sightings have become less frequent. They are most commonly seen between April and September but sightings are never guaranteed.
  • Copper Shark (Bronze Whaler) are a common sight, especially when Great Whites are less frequent. Copper Sharks, often seen in groups, are known for their curiosity. They can be spotted throughout the year with higher chances during the summer months.
  • Sevengill Cow Shark are another species that is regularly seen, particularly in kelp forest areas and are present year-round.
  • Shortfin Mako Shark are less commonly seen, but occasionally spotted, particularly during the warmer months.

Most tours boast a high success rate, especially during peak shark season. However, as with all wildlife experiences, nothing is guaranteed. Morning is generally the best time for sightings, which is why most tours start early; be prepared for an early pickup from Cape Town!

three sharks close to the boat during our shark watching tour at Gansbaai

What Time of Year is Best for Shark Watching?

The best time for shark watching in Gansbaai is typically from April to September, when shark activity is at its peak. Tours operate year-round, the chances of sightings are generally lower outside these months.

  • From April to October, especially June to September, the waters around Gansbaai are cooler, which attracts sharks closer to the surface and nearer the coast. The abundance of prey is also higher during this time, making it a particularly active period for sharks.
  • From October to April, shark activity can be more variable. Warmer sea temperatures cause some shark species, particularly Great Whites, to migrate to cooler waters. While you can still see sharks, sightings may be less frequent. However, experienced tour operators know the best places to see sharks and often boast a 99% success rate.

Top Tip: Boat trips are weather-dependent, and peak shark season coincides with winter in the Cape. It’s wise to put a few days set aside for shark viewing. We kept a close eye on the weather and booked a tour that allowed us to reschedule.

expect to see sharks come close to the cage, just like this shark, inches from the people in the shark cage

What To Expect On A Shark Watching Tour

Number one, keep in mind the distance from Cape Town to Gansbaai. It’s a good 2-hour drive, and since the boat leaves at sunrise, you should expect a very early start.

How Much Is The Tour?

Prices vary depending on the operator and the season but expect to pay between 125€ and 175€.

This tour isn’t a cheap activity, but if you’re looking for an ethical tour with a marine biologist on board, it’s worth opting for the slightly pricier options.

How Long Is A Tour?

Tours typically last around 4-6 hours, depending on the weather, sea conditions and shark activity.

What’s Included In The Tour?

Most tours provide essential safety gear, an experienced crew, refreshments and a light meal. Here’s what was included in our tour:

  • We were picked up from our hotel in Cape Town and driven back after.
  • A light breakfast was provided upon arrival in Gansbaai. I hadn’t pre-warned them about being celiac, but they still had a few gluten-free options.
  • A light lunch awaited us when we returned to Gansbaai.
  • We received a safety briefing and an introduction to shark behaviour. The crew was incredibly passionate about sharks, and choosing a responsible tour means you’ll likely benefit from a marine biologist on board.
  • Winter-thickness wetsuits and mask are provided for the cage diving. Snorkels aren’t needed. 
  • Towels were provided, along with warm waterproof coats
colleen and gerry both very happy after our shark watching tour

Is It Safe? Sharks Eat People, Don’t They?

This was Gerry’s first question! And yes, shark-watching tours are generally very safe. The crew follows strict safety protocols and shark attacks on boats are extremely rare (regardless of what you see in the movies). The crew is highly experienced and all tours are regulated to ensure the highest safety standards.

While there are occasional high-profile stories about shark attacks, the chances are minuscule. In fact, we were probably more at risk of injury during our walk around Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens than watching sharks.

What Will The Water Be Like?

Honestly? Absolutely freezing. The waters around Gansbaai can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C.  You do stay warm and dry on the boat but if you do decide to enter the cage, be prepared for chilly conditions.

The crew provides thick wetsuits, which can be quite a challenge to put on, but they do help protect you from the worst of the cold. However, in winter, there’s no escaping the fact that the water is going to be very cold.

What Do I Need To Take?

It can get chilly, so dress in layers to stay warm. Waterproof coats were provided, which kept us toasty.

  • A camera is a must! If you have a waterproof camera, bring it along for those close-up shots.
  • Ideally, you’ll wear your swimwear under the wetsuit. You can change when we’re having breakfast if you need to pop it under your clothes.
  • Bring a towel to dry off after getting out of the water although towels were also available.

Hot showers are available on land, so bring toiletries if you’d like to freshen up after your dive.

this shark caught a bird in it;s mouth but unbelievably, the bird got away!

What Should You Wear on a Shark Tour?

Comfort is key, especially if you plan to enter the cage. Wear layers to stay warm and flat shoes are essential for moving around.  A hat and gloves can help you warm up faster after being in the water; thankfully we’d purchased these for our chilly days from Victoria Falls to Cape Town!

Top Tip: We visited in late June, during winter, and it was cold. At other times of the year, you might not need as many layers, and suncream and t-shirts may be more appropriate.

Can You Take Photos or Videos on the Tour?

Absolutely! If you want to take a camera into the cage, it must be waterproof and a strap is recommended to keep it secure while bobbing up and down. I brought my camera with zoom lens for use on deck but didn’t have a waterproof camera for the cage.

Do I Need to Be a Strong Swimmer?

No, not at all. No swimming is required and no prior diving experience is needed either. However, you should feel comfortable in water since you will be partially submerged to view the sharks. If you are fearful of water, the experience might not be enjoyable.

Can Children or Older Adults Go on the Tour?

Yes! There were children on our tour and we’re in our 60s and not the oldest by any means. The tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

The only caveat for older folks is that getting in and out of the cage requires a bit of agility. If you’re concerned, know that the crew is always on hand to help, but there is some manoeuvring involved.

Getting into the shark cage.  you need to be agile to get in the Shark Cage but there are people close to help you in and out

Will You See Whales or Other Marine Animals?

I was really hoping to see whales but as the crew explained, Gansbaai isn’t the ideal place for whale watching. For that, you’re better off heading to Hermanus, which is world renowned for its whale-watching tours.

That said, we did spot seals and plenty of seabirds, including a very fortunate cormorant that narrowly escaped the jaws of a passing shark! Dolphins also live here but we didn’t see any during our visit.

Is It Ethical To Take The Shark Experience Tour?

This is always a big question for us. We ask it whenever we go whale watching or on safari or even when taking our helicopter ride over Victoria Falls (which can present environmental concerns). We travel a lot and we are very aware that we could be contributing to the problem.

So, we do our research.

Just as when we went blue whale watching in Sri Lanka, some tours are better than others. Choose wisely and tours can be ethical. Here are a few points to consider:

  • Ensure the operator follows the very best and most responsible practices. Check which organisations they align themselves with too; reputable operators will proudly display their credentials.
  • Ethical shark-watching tours educate visitors about the dangers of overfishing, pollution, and the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems.
  • Over-chumming the water or frequent human presence can impact the broader marine ecosystem. Ethical tour operators are aware of this and only use sustainable practices, minimize the use of bait and continuously monitor their impact.
  • Good tour operators openly support conservation through education and partnerships with local or international marine conservation organisations.
  • Ethically operated tours prioritise safety for us and the sharks, ensuring no harm comes to the animals during their tours.

While some argue that human presence can contribute to the decline of shark populations, properly managed shark-watching tours can coexist with healthy shark populations. Research-driven and conservation-focused operators also gather important data that contributes to shark protection.  On our tour, a spotter sat alongside Gerry, documenting all of the animals that we’d seen.

on the way home after our shark experience; the tour we chose was from one of the most respected companies in Gansbaai

Is It Worth Shark Watching From The Boat Without The Cage Diving?

Absolutely, yes! If you’re interested in sharks and find yourself in South Africa then don’t hesitate to book a tour. Even without diving, you’ll get up close to these magnificent creatures, enjoy a boat ride and create your own amazing memories.

Gerry says it was one of his favourite days in South Africa! From the boat

  • you get to observe sharks from a different perspective
  • watch them circle the boat
  • have 360 degree view
  • have a better view to studying their behaviours and notice unique markings or injuries.

The tour is a fascinating experience. You get all of the excitement of a shark encounter while staying warm and dry.  If the idea of jumping into cold water isn’t for you then, don’t let that stop you. Be like Gerry and have an amazing shark-watching adventure from the boat!

20 Day Victoria Falls to Cape Town Adventure

Looking for the greatest African Overland Experience? We travelled from Victoria Falls to Cape Town on quite possibly one of the greatest tours we’ve ever taken.

If you think this kind of tour is too much for you then think again.

The sharks are beautiful to watch, especially when they get very close like this bronze shark

Are You Travelling Overland?

We travelled from Victoria Falls to Cape Town on an Africa Overland Adventure and we’re writing about our journey. You might find the following posts useful :

friendly gull during our shark experience, sitting on the top deck of the boat

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Whenever you travel, you should have great travel and medical insurance.  None of us expect anything bad to happen, but in the event of an incident, you want to be sure that your insurance will cover you.

I’ve ended up in hospital in Peru, Indonesia, Portugal, Japan and Ireland. Every time my insurance took care of everything. I would never leave home without full and comprehensive insurance.

TrueTraveller : We have this policy and are very happy with the cover, especially considering our ages and pre-existing conditions.

Globelink: We have used and recommended Globelink for years and not heard of any issues. They are a great choice for European and UK Residents.

Genki : This is an EU based company offering long term policies for nomads and travellers. Their monthly rates are very competitive for longer trips too.

Safety Wing : Many of my travelling buddies from the USA recommended Safety Wing; we’ve not used them personally but know folks who have.

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Colleen in Salamanca on the Via de la Plata

Hey I’m Colleen. I’m married to Gerry, we’ve three fabulous kids and been living in France for almost two decades. I fell in love with Spain in the 1980s and I’ve walked 1000s of miles along the Camino de Santiago. Now we’re exploring and walking the world and I can’t wait to share what we’ve learned!

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