Cape Town is one of the most recognised shark diving destinations in the world. The city has a long history of marine research, and strong tourism infrastructure, offering visitors the chance to observe sharks in a structured and memorable setting.
False Bay, is the home of shark diving experiences in Cape Town, and is an easy drive from Cape Town’s centre.
For travellers who want more than the standard sightseeing experience, shark cage diving combines wildlife, ocean adventure, and education in one. It is suitable for first-time visitors, families, couples, and independent travellers looking for something unique to add to their trip to South Africa.
Apex Shark Expeditions is one of the most established operators in the region, with decades of experience on the water. The company is based in Simon’s Town, just outside of Cape Town, and has long built a reputation for safety, research involvement, and professionally managed trips. Their long-term knowledge of local shark behaviour and ocean conditions helps create a strong guest experience from start to finish.
This guide covers how shark cage diving works in South Africa, what to expect on the day, safety standards, ethical considerations, and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip.
Shark Cage Diving in South Africa
South Africa has long been one of the leading countries for shark cage diving due to its productive coastline, rich marine ecosystems, and strong shark presence.
Cape Town remains one of the most practical and accessible places to experience shark cage diving because trips operate directly from within the city through to False Bay and Simon’s Town.
Other areas include:
- Shark cage diving in Gansbaai in the Overberg region of the Western Cape (3 hours from Cape Town)
- Mossel Bay on the Garden Route, also in the Western Cape (5 hours from Cape Town)
Each location has different conditions, species patterns, and trip formats. But Cape Town stands out because visitors can combine a world-class city and beach break with direct access to shark diving on the same trip. This proximity also means that half day trips are an option too, so for many visitors, it is the most convenient way to experience shark diving in South Africa.
Packages and Tours on Offer
Local tour operators usually offer a range of trip types depending on season and demand.
The main options include:
Standard Shark Cage Diving Trips
These are the most popular tours and the experience includes:
- Boat trip from Simon’s Town to the dive site
- A comprehensive safety briefing
- Use of wetsuit and gear
- Guided cage rotations
- Crew commentary and support
Private Charters
Suitable for families, media crews, or groups who want a more personalised experience.
Photography-Focused Trips
If you’re keen to capture content above and below the water, then several operators offer options for photographers and videographers.
Combination Itineraries
Many visitors combine shark diving with other Cape Town attractions, such as:
- Visiting Penguin Beach in nearby Simon’s Town
- Longer day trips around the Cape Peninsula
- Whale watching in season
- Exploring the nearby wine regions
The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish
It can definitely help remove anxieties about the day knowing how the experience will go. Most professional operators follow a clear structure similar to the below:
Arrival and Check-In
Guests arrive at the departure point, usually in Simon’s Town for the Cape Town trips. There is generally plentiful on-street parking nearby. The Apex Shark Expeditions HQ is located in the Simon’s Town Waterfront Centre (Board Walk Centre).
Once check-in is completed and the guests have signed their waivers, guests meet the crew who’ll be taking them out on the water.
Safety Briefing
Before departure, the crew explains:
- How the trip works
- How the cage is used
- How to enter and exit safely
- What to expect in the water
- Sea conditions for the day
Boat Departure from Simon’s Town
The boat heads into False Bay toward the dive area. Along the way, you can stunning views of the coastline and may even spot seabirds, seals, or dolphins.
Apex Shark Expeditions use a 35ft catamaran called White Pointer II, which was specifically built for the purpose of diving and working with Great White Sharks in the Western Cape.
Cage Setup and First Rotations
Once the conditions are right and the team is ready, the cage is secured to the boat and you’ll hop into your wetsuits ready to descend into the cage. Guests rotate in small groups while others watch from the deck.
In the Cage
To enter, you hold onto the hand rails within the cage. When sharks approach, guests submerge their head for an incredible upfront and close-up view of the sharks passing by the cage.
No scuba certification is required or even previous experience for diving. Breath-hold diving is the preferred method for cage diving, but there often is a snorkelling option and a hookah system for those who do have their scuba certification.
Time Between Rotations
In between your cage entries, guests can enjoy warm drinks, take photos, ask questions, and also watch the shark activity from the boat. It’s also just a great day out on the water!
Return to Harbour
Once the trip is complete, the boat returns to shore. You’ll find you will leave with dozens of photos, video clips, and a much better understanding of sharks than when you arrived.
Safety Standards
The unique opportunity to safely get up close and personal with sharks is one of the main reasons shark cage diving has become so popular.
Professional operators follow strict standards that cover:
- Cage design and maintenance
- Qualified skippers and crew
- Pre-trip safety briefings
- Controlled guest rotations
- Weather and sea assessments
- Communication systems onboard
The cage remains securely attached to the vessel and is supervised throughout the experience.
For travellers who want a professional operator for shark diving in Cape Town, it’s best to go with an established company.
Ethical and Conservation Considerations
Modern shark diving should do more than entertain guests. It should support marine awareness and responsible tourism.
Strong operators focus on:
- Respecting wildlife behaviour
- Operating within regulations
- Educating guests about sharks
- Supporting research where possible
- Minimising environmental impact
This matters because sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems. Experiences that help visitors understand sharks can improve conservation awareness.To compare another location, visitors can also explore shark cage diving gansbaai in the Overberg region.
A Practical Guide to Shark Cage Diving in Cape Town
So you’ve made the decision to go shark diving, now for the practical bits!
What to Bring
Conditions can be changeable whilst out on the water, so it’s best to be prepared and bring:
- Warm jacket or windproof layer
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Towel
- Swimwear for under the wetsuit
- Camera or phone with waterproof protection
- Seasickness bracelets
What Not to Bring
It’s best to leave these items back in your hotel room
- Loose valuables
- Large bags
- Heavy jewellery
It’s also best to avoid drinking alcohol before the trip.
Best Time of Year to Go
Shark diving operates throughout the year, but conditions change by season. Generally speaking, the South African winter months (June to September) offers the highest activity levels. The wider window spans from April to October where the water becomes clearer.
Other factors that can vary include:
- Water visibility
- Weather
- Species activity
- Sea temperature
Seasickness
If you are prone to motion sickness, then it’s best to prepare ahead. Make sure to:
- Buy a seasick bracelet
- Eat a light meal before departure
- Stay hydrated
- Focus on the horizon
- Let crew know early
Book in Advance
Peak travel periods can mean shark diving boats fill quickly. If you can, it’s best to book ahead.
Where to Stay in Cape Town?
There are plenty of great neighbourhoods to stay in in Cape Town.
I’d recommend staying in the area closest to the V&A waterfront if you want attractions in safe, walking distance. If you want to be next to the beach, I’d recommend staying in Camps Bay or Clifton.
Although, if you hire a car and are looking for a luxurious experience, I’d recommend some of the hotels along the coastline from Camps Bay. And if you’d like to stay in Simon’s Town, right near the departure point for the shark cage diving, then consider The Willets Boutique Hotel (from £57 per night), or Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel (around £85 per night).
Here are a few suggestions for excellent hotels in the different neighbourhoods of Cape Town:
V&A Waterfront area:
- Cape Grace – one of the city’s most sought after locations
- Radisson RED – offering a good value stay in the heart of the action
- Taj Hotel – a beautiful hotel in a fantastic setting
Other areas in Cape Town CBD:
- Belmond Mount Nelson hotel – this famous pale pink hotel has grounds that need to be seen to be believed
- De Waterkant House – very affordable and a brilliant central location
- Holiday Inn – a well known brand in a convenient location and at a great price
Camps Bay hotels:
- 3 on Camps Bay – a beautiful and well priced boutique hotel
- South Beach Camps Bay – views and a stunning pool, this is a great value stay
- POD – super hip and ultra affordable
Other coastal hotel stays:
- Compass House in Bantry Bay – for views and excellent service
- Twelve Apostles Hotel – an affordable stay in a super luxury hotel in an incredible setting
- Cape View – located in Clifton, you can live like a local in this beautiful area
- Ellerman House – one of Cape Town’s most exclusive hotels, with views to match
Final Thoughts
So there you have my guide to shark cage diving in Cape Town, covering everything you need to know to plan for this brilliant and unique experience.
Shark cage diving remains one of the most memorable wildlife experiences available to travellers visiting South Africa, and is easily one of the best things to do in Cape Town.
Not only does the experience combine beautiful ocean scenery, but the unique opportunity for direct shark encounters and the change to learn about this special species in one excursion.
However, if your travels take you further into the Western Cape, then shark cage diving in Gansbaai or Mossel Bay can also be excellent alternatives to Cape Town.
Cape Town really is a destination for everyone, with simply so much on offer and a wonderful year-round mild climate. If you’re planning a visit, you might also find my Cape Town itineraries useful, as well as my guide to the best places to eat in Cape Town and all of the best activities to do in Cape Town city centre.
Disclaimer: This guide to shark cage diving in Cape Town was written together with Apex Shark Expeditions.
