Shark Cage Diving Gansbaai - White Shark Projects

White Shark Projects is a globally respected organization dedicated to the conservation of sharks and the ocean. Through responsible tourism and cutting-edge research, we strive to offer guests the most environmentally conscious and enriching experience possible. Our work spans film production, education, conservation, and both diving and shark viewing adventures. Recognized with numerous awards for eco-tourism and community upliftment across South Africa, we are proud to be a leading force in marine conservation.

As the world’s most successful shark diving operation, we hold the record for the highest number of Great White Shark encounters globally. Our reputation is built on consistent shark sightings and a deep, ongoing commitment to the protection of these magnificent creatures and their habitats. Here and now, you'll be guided by experienced professionals, equipped with top-tier facilities for observing South Africa’s diverse marine life in its natural setting. 

The extensive data we’ve gathered plays a vital role in advancing scientific understanding and the conservation status of these species. We are passionate about fostering public awareness and education as part of our mission to preserve balance in the ocean ecosystem.

Shark Cage Diving Gansbaai:

Exceptional, professional and personalized service is our number one priority.  Established in 1989 White Shark Projects is the sustainable choice for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will captivate your imagination! Dive with us and make a positive impact on our precious earth.

Added Value Items include:

• Continental breakfast at our ocean view lodge
• Snacks and water are available on board
• Guided talk on the sharks we see during the cruise
• All diving equipment is included
• Snacks and drinks provided onboard
• Light lunch is served on your return to shore
• Luxury walk-in showers and toilets for wheel chair access
• Parking Facilities at front and rear of building with wheel chair access
• Dive experience certificate awarded to all divers

Great reasons to join us at White Shark Projects for an unforgettable experience...

Shark Diving Safety
Shark diving is designed for both certified divers and non-divers, making it an accessible and thrilling adventure for all. Your safety is our top priority—our expert crew is trained to international standards by SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority), and our operation is backed by a USD $500 million insurance policy through Lloyds of London. With these measures in place, you can relax and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience with total peace of mind.

Dive Headquarters
Your day begins at our luxury headquarters in Kleinbaai, where our friendly team will welcome you with a delicious continental breakfast. A comprehensive safety briefing follows, along with the latest shark sighting updates. Our marine biologist or trained guide will give you an overview of what to expect at sea. Guests are welcome to change into swimwear at the headquarters before heading out.

Shark Team Vessel
Once everyone is ready, we’ll take a short one-minute stroll to the harbor where our custom-built 36-foot, 4-ton catamaran, Shark Team, awaits. While the vessel is licensed to carry 30 passengers, we cap the number at 20 to ensure a more intimate, comfortable, and immersive experience. You'll be accompanied throughout the journey by our experienced skipper, Dive Master, and professional crew.

The Dive Site
The journey to the dive site takes roughly 20 minutes, depending on the season and current shark activity. We anchor in areas with the highest recent sightings, such as Joubert’s Dam—a hotspot frequented by diverse shark species. Our team begins by creating a scent trail, or "chumming," to attract the sharks. Then, we wait in eager anticipation for that unmistakable dorsal fin to break the surface. Each dive is a unique experience—we can’t predict how many sharks we’ll see or what surprises the ocean will bring.

Shark Cage Diving
When sharks are present, the first group of six divers will gear up in wetsuits, hoods, boots, and masks. Once weight belts are handed out, our Dive Master will guide you into the cage, ensuring safe entry and positioning. Each diver spends around 20–30 minutes in the cage, with the chance to dive a second time if they wish. Many non-divers change their minds once they see how safe and exhilarating the experience is—we always have enough dry wetsuits available for anyone who wants to join.

Shark Activity
Great White Sharks are highly migratory, and with fewer than 5,000 individuals left worldwide, spotting one is a rare privilege. Bronze Whaler Sharks are typically seen year-round, although their presence can be influenced by seasonal events like the salmon run. In 2023, we’ve also seen an increase in sightings of the fascinating prehistoric Seven Gill Cow Shark. Our expert crew will identify the species present, and our volunteer team records vital data for ongoing shark research and conservation.

On the Deck
Not diving? You’ll still have an incredible vantage point from the deck to witness shark activity near the water’s surface. It’s a thrilling sight whether you’re snapping photos or watching fellow adventurers in the cage. Enjoy a variety of snacks on board while soaking in the sunshine and the spectacular ocean views of South Africa’s coast.

Wrapping Up
After around three hours at sea, we return to shore, where hot soup and toasted sandwiches await you. Refresh in our luxury changing and shower facilities, complete with soft towels and Healing Ocean toiletries. You’re welcome to dry your hair, freshen up, and share stories of your adventure. Our photographer and videographer will showcase the professional footage captured during your dive, and a debriefing session gives you the chance to ask any final questions. Once ready, we’ll transport you back to your original pick-up point—leaving you with lasting memories of an extraordinary day with the ocean’s most iconic predators.