By Courtney Cooper
Comparing Cape Town, Hermanus and Gansbaai Shark Tours
Shark cage diving is a prominent attraction in South Africa, drawing thrill-seekers and conservation enthusiasts to experience the ocean’s apex predators up close. Cape Town, Hermanus and Gansbaai offer unique shark tour experiences, each with its history, level of expertise, eco-tourism impact, and contribution to marine conservation. Cape Town vs Hermanus vs Gansbaai Shark Tours: Which is Best for You?
We also discuss further shark facts that you might be interested in! Apex Shark Expeditions provides the best shark cage diving Cape Town experience.
Cape Town vs Hermanus vs Gansbaai Shark Tours: Which is Best for You?
Historical Background and Operators
Cape Town’s shark tours focus primarily on False Bay, famous for breaching great white sharks around Seal Island from 1996 to 2018. Shark tourism in the area took off in the 1990s, and today, it features a mix of veteran and newer operators.
Hermanus, a premier whale-watching destination, has a developing shark diving industry. Shark tours began here more recently, with only a few operators.
Gansbaai, once known as the “Great White Shark Capital of the World,” is the oldest and most established shark cage diving destination in South Africa. Shark tours in Gansbaai date back to the early 1990s, with over eight licensed operators providing services.
Vessels, Staff, and Expertise
Operators in Cape Town, Hermanus, and Gansbaai invest in modern vessels equipped for safety and comfort. Gansbaai boasts the largest fleet, with experienced crews often drawn from local fishing communities. These operators include marine biologists, seasoned skippers, and dive masters with decades of shark diving expertise.
Cape Town operators also boast a knowledge crew, including wildlife photographers and marine biologists. However, its operations are intimate, and far less commercial compared to Gansbaai.
Hermanus, being relatively new to the industry, has fewer vessels and smaller teams. However, its operators are often passionate conservationists, ensuring guests experience educational and ethical interactions with marine wildlife.
Conservation and Ecotourism Contribution
Gansbaai leads conservation initiatives. Dyer Island Conservation Trust fund shark research, tagging programs, and environmental education projects. Shark tours are an integral part of Gansbaai’s eco-tourism, directly supporting local conservation efforts.
Cape Town’s shark cage diving tours focus on public awareness of the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems. Some operators contribute to research programs in False Bay and advocate for the establishment of Marine Protected Areas.
In Hermanus, operators are beginning to integrate conservation into their practices, emphasising the ecological importance of sharks and fostering community-based environmental stewardship.
Wildlife Experiences and Environmental Conditions
Gansbaai’s reputation stems from the high density of great white sharks that used to frequent the area around Shark Alley, situated between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.
Cape Town was unique for observing breaching behaviour, where sharks leap from the water while hunting seals. However, sightings have become less predictable in recent years due to changes in shark populations and migration patterns.
Hermanus, while primarily a whale-watching hotspot, offers a less crowded and more intimate shark-diving experience. Sightings can vary, but visitors appreciate the tranquil and scenic environment.
Community and Economic Impact
Gansbaai’s shark tourism significantly supports the local economy, employing hundreds of residents in guiding, hospitality, and conservation roles.
Cape Town’s operators attract an international clientele, contributing to broader tourism revenue while educating global audiences about marine conservation.
Hermanus benefits from its dual focus on whales and sharks, offering diverse marine wildlife experiences that sustain eco-tourism growth and local jobs.
All three destinations offer unforgettable shark diving experiences.
Apex Shark Expeditions provides the best shark cage diving in Gansbaai, as well as, shark cage diving in Simons Town. We also share insight into why sharks are critical to healthy coral reef ecosystems.
