Activities,  South Africa

Tips before diving into a cage with sharks at Hermanus 

Hermanus is definitely the best place in the world to see the Big 5 sailors (sharks, whales, dolphins, seals and penguins). But before booking a cruise, you have to know who you are talking to. We explain everything in this article on the business of cage dives with white sharks.

Whale and White Shark Cage Cruise in Hermanus, South Africa

Whale and White Shark Cage Cruise in Hermanus, South Africa

From September to October, Hermanus is famous for these Whales which migrate there to reproduce. The rest of the year, the white shark is the star of this small coastal town. Cruises to see these animals and even cage diving with white sharks (imply with a mask and a snorkel, without bottle) are organized by many companies in any season. It is a unique experience that we recommend, but not with just any provider ...

What to know before booking a shark cage excursion in Hermanus, South Africa

Cage diving with Hermanus white sharks in South Africa

Before booking blind, you should know that many companies are strongly criticized for feeding sharks in order to bait them. We therefore recommend that you book with 'Marine Dynamics'. The owners are part of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust which is an NGO that preserve the big 5 sailors and they do it right. In addition, there is a great chance that you have a marine biologist on board as the company annually funds doctoral students to write their theses on endangered bay animals. Thanks to them, we were able to learn a lot about the precarious situation of sharks and better understand this large predator unjustly disliked by the public. Finally, we were of course very impressed by the proximity to this giant of the seas, but above all we appreciated the knowledge sharing of the Marine Dynamics team. Do not hesitate to contact them for more information on their whale watching and shark cage excursions.

Book a cage diving excursion with white sharks in Hermanus.

NB : All cruises in Hermanus leave early in the morning, so it is best to book your excursion in advance on the internet or at least the day before. In addition, as sea trips are subject to the weather, there are often days when the boats do not go out. If you absolutely want to dive with white sharks then we suggest you spend 2 days in Hermanus just in case.  

Sleep in Hermanus at 6 Stemmet Lodge to see whales and cage dive with white sharks

For our accommodation, we have chosen 6 Stemmet Lodge which is the best value for money in town. Very well located, it also offers a very pleasant swimming pool.

Check availability

For more options, we recommend reading our article on the best hotels in Hermanus.

Have a good night's sleep at the best B&B in Wilderness National Park on the Garden Route

If you continue to Wilderness National Park, do not delay to take the road once your cruise is over (around 13 / 14pm) because there is 5 hours of travel. In addition, you enter on the Garden Route so the landscapes are to be seen by day! You will notice that the settings change drastically very regularly, so stay awake!

Get a good night's sleep at The Old Trading Post, the best B&B in Wilderness National Park on the Garden Route

Once in the Wilderness, we recommend that you stay at 'The Old Trading Post ' for a quiet, charming and inexpensive B&B. This is the best in town at this price and it is in a great location by the lake!

Check availability

For more choices, read the best accommodations around the Wilderness on the Garden Route.

Our tips for a successful trip:

  • Book your flight in advance to take advantage of the best prices

Airline ticket prices are cheaper when booked 6 to 3 months in advance. To be sure of getting the best price, we recommend using a flight comparator such as Skyscanner.

  • Book your accommodation before departure to have access to the best offers

You will always find a room at the last minute, but the best located accommodations are necessarily those that are always full. That's why it's best to book your accommodations as soon as possible. We recommend going through Agoda which offers the best prices. In addition, this site allows you to be easily reimbursed in the event of cancellation.

  • Skip the line to visit the most popular attractions

By booking your excursions in advance on Civitatis, you do not queue on site to get your tickets. Less time waiting = more time enjoying your vacation! Plus, their guided tours ensure you have a knowledgeable guide who speaks your language.

  • Use a comparator to find a rental car at the lowest price

Save yourself hours of research with rentalcar.com ou discovercars.com. These comparators are the best for finding rental cars at the lowest prices.

  • Don't leave without travel insurance

For us, it is unimaginable to leave without travel insurance. We recommend the one proposed by AXIS. This is the best guaranteed way to leave with peace of mind. However, consider taking out additional specialized insurance for activities not covered (such as skiing or scuba diving).

  • Want more information about your destination?

Do not hesitate to complete the information present on this blog with a travel Guide. You can take it in your luggage and refer to it throughout your vacation.

To find out more about South Africa:

Itinéterre is a travel blog written by a team of expatriates and locals. They share their experiences so that you can enjoy the best tours in their countries. Their advice will help you plan your vacation easily as if a local is accompanying you!