Our Story

Apex Shark Expeditions established 30 years ago. was born out of a lifetime passion for wildlife and the ocean.

Our founder, Chris Fallows, had a twinkle in his eye for animals from a very young age. Growing up, he spent countless days in the African bush, where his love for the natural world first took root. When his path later led him to the ocean, it was sharks that captured his heart and imagination.

Chris’s dedication and curiosity eventually led to one of the most extraordinary discoveries in marine wildlife: the breaching great white sharks of False Bay. This groundbreaking behavior—great whites launching themselves clear out of the water while hunting—would put both Chris and Apex Shark Expeditions on the global map. Over the years, his work has featured in more than 20 Air Jaws specials for Discovery’s Shark Week, as well as countless documentaries on channels such as National Geographic.

Chris’s wife Monique joined him in the year, 2000, and together they built Apex into a world-renowned operation, sharing the awe-inspiring world of sharks with adventurers, filmmakers, and scientists from across the globe.

Karyn Cooper

Owner and Guardian of Sharks

In late 2008, Karyn Cooper moved from Johannesburg to Cape Town—far from the ocean but eager to embrace it. What began as a new chapter quickly became a lifelong calling. Over the next 14 years, Karyn poured her passion, energy, and vision into Apex, helping shape the company into what it is today.
From a young age, Karyn’s first love was horses. Their strength, power, and beauty sparked a lifelong fascination with animals that would later draw her to the ocean’s greatest predator — the shark. Just as horses command respect and awe on land, sharks embody those same qualities in the sea.

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Her deep respect for sharks and their fragile habitats shaped Apex’s ethos of responsible ecotourism.
Today, as owner of Apex Shark Expeditions, Karyn carries forward the proud legacy of Chris and Monique Fallows while charting her own course. Her journey — from horses to sharks, from Johannesburg to Cape Town — reflects a lifelong love for wild animals, and a commitment to protect them so future generations can stand in awe of their strength, power, and beauty.

Apex Shark Expeditions Operations Today

Apex Shark Expeditions is more than just a business. It is a platform to act as guardians for sharks — to watch over them, to share their magnificence with the world, and to do our part to conserve both the animals and their fragile ocean habitats.

From pioneering discoveries to life-changing guest experiences, our story is rooted in passion, respect, and a deep responsibility to the ocean’s most iconic predator.

What Makes Us Special!

Our dedicated team – they love what they do, and they bring passion into the personalized and highly rewarding tours. The team strives to place shark conservation and education foremost.

Our crews are extremely knowledgeable in the field that they work and adopt an eco system approach that focuses on showing guests as many different aspects of the shark world rather than just focusing on the sharks. This gives you a far greater understanding and appreciation of these magnificent animals.

Meet our Team

With over 50 years of combined experience in the shark cage diving industry, our skippers, divemaster’s to our friendly shore team, every member of Apex plays a vital role in delivering safe, memorable, and meaningful shark diving experiences. Trained in seamanship, guest care, and marine conservation, our crew ensures every trip is professional, responsible, and unforgettable.

Natalie Van Eeden

Trade and Guest Relations

Whether it’s a safari or a “seafari,” Natalie has a passion for anything outdoors. With extensive experience working in game lodges, she brings a wealth of knowledge in hospitality and guest care. Natalie loves assisting visitors in planning unforgettable journeys, ensuring every detail contributes to a memorable adventure. South Africa — with its endless beauty and wild spirit — is where Natalie’s heart truly lies.

Nikki Corneilse

Shark Centre Co-ordinator

Qualifications: Postgrad Dip in Management Studies, Human Resources; Honours Bachelor of Arts, Social Science- Psychology; BSocSc

Nikki is Apex’s Shark Center Coordinator and brings a wealth of experience in customer service and all things climate crisis related. Animals, nature, Africa- these are Nikki’s lifelong passions. It was at a luxury 5* wine farm, where she worked for many years, that her natural warmth when interacting with international guests was nurtured.

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As a proud Capetonian and South African, she thrives on sharing with guests what to experience in her hometown and country, with a focus on wildlife. Deeply concerned about the impact that our modern life has on our planet, sustainable living is her mantra, and she has educated herself extensively on treading more lightly on Mother Earth.

Ryan Miller

Captain and Storyteller

Qualifications: SAMSA CAT B Skippers Ticket, Registered Shark Cage Diving Guide, First Aid Emergency Responder, Onboard Firefighter. SAMSA Personal Survival Techniques

Ryan began his career at sea at just 18 years old, working as a deckhand on a charter fishing vessel taking guests out to experience the rich variety of Cape coastal waters. He later gained experience in the traditional hand-line fishing industry before seeking a new direction that aligned with his passion for the ocean. Ten years ago, Ryan joined Apex Shark Expeditions as a deckhand.

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Recognizing his potential, the team supported him in upgrading his skipper’s ticket, and through hard work and dedication, he rose to the role of Captain.
Today, Ryan runs a tight and professional trip. His deep knowledge of the ocean, combined with his enthusiasm for sharks, brings both confidence and energy to every expedition. Guests and crew alike value his leadership and passion for the sea.

Pride Chigiji

Skipper and Storyteller

Qualifications: SAMSA Skipper Passenger Endorsed > 9m, Personal Survival Techniques (PST), Firefighting, Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR), Medical First Aid, Short Range Radio Certificate

Pride began his career at sea at the age of 19, starting as a deckhand in the yachting industry. Through hard work and dedication, he worked his way up to become a skipper and spent more than four years operating in Cape Town’s waterfront.

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Looking for a new challenge and a different way to share his passion for the ocean, he joined Apex Shark Expeditions as a skipper. Today, he enjoys introducing guests to the incredible marine life of False Bay while sharing his knowledge and experience from years spent on the water.

Damara Naidoo

Marine Biologist and Guest Experience Coordinator

Qualifications:MSc Biological Science (Major: Marine Biology), SSI Scuba Diving Certification (Speciality Diver)

Damara’s fascination with the ocean and marine life inspired her to pursue a career in marine biology. Her research focused on dolphins along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, investigating their distribution, acoustic behaviour, and interactions with the shark nets.

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Alongside her scientific work, she developed a passion for sharing marine conservation stories and connecting people with the natural world.

Today, Damara combines research, education, and storytelling at Apex Shark Expeditions, helping guests gain a deeper understanding of the incredible marine life found along South Africa’s coastline.

Bongani Makati

Shark Handler

Qualifications: Registered Shark Cage Diving Guide, First Aid Emergency Responder, Onboard Firefighter. SAMSA Personal Survival Techniques

With over 10 years of experience as a shark handler, Bongani brings both expertise and reassurance to every expedition. His calm, steady presence helps ease guests’ nerves as he gently assists them in and out of the cage, always ensuring their safety and comfort.
His strong skill set, professionalism, and natural ability to connect with people make him an invaluable member of the Apex team.

Shadi Kywe

Shark Trip Guide and Bait Handler

Qualifications: First Aid Emergency Responder, Onboard Firefighter. SAMSA Personal Survival Techniques

Shadi was born in Johannesburg in 1991 and raised by his great-grandmother in the Northern Cape before moving to Cape Town at the age of nine. Life presented challenges early on, and Shadi left school in Grade 10 to help support his mother and siblings. Despite these obstacles, his determination and work ethic shaped his journey forward. In 2015, he joined Shark Spotters in Cape Town, where he first discovered his love for the ocean.

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The experience opened his eyes to the incredible world of marine life and sparked a passion that would stay with him. After his contract ended in 2018, Shadi worked in construction while saving to complete a Pre-Sea and Safety course — an achievement he dedicated to his young son and his dream of building a better future for his family.
In 2022, encouraged by his partner and biggest supporter, Shadi applied to Apex Shark Expeditions. Though nervous at first, he quickly found his place on the team and has thrived ever since. Today, he feels blessed to spend each day surrounded by the ocean’s wonders — from mega pods of dolphins and breaching whales to the famous killer whales, Port and Starboard.
Shadi loves what he does, takes pride in working with his team, and is grateful for every opportunity the ocean continues to bring.

Brandon Fyfe

Shark Trip Host and Storyteller

Qualifications: First Aid Emergency Responder, Onboard Firefighter. SAMSA Personal Survival Techniques

Born in Cape Town in 1987, Brandon spent his early years in Fish Hoek before moving abroad with his family. His childhood was filled with travel, from living in Scotland and England, to extended stays in Holland, family visits in Albania, and adventures across France, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, and even New Zealand. These experiences gave him a love of different cultures and a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. At school, Brandon played both rugby and cricket and was even scouted for rugby before deciding to return to Cape Town at age 20.

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Beyond his love of sport and travel, Brandon has a lifelong passion for music, having played guitar since the age of 14.
Today, as Apex’s Host and Storyteller, Brandon brings his global experiences, easy going warmth, and natural curiosity to every guest interaction. Whether on deck or sharing stories, he ensures each visitor leaves with a deeper appreciation for Cape Town, the ocean, and the incredible sharks that call it home.

Samsodien “Sam” Petersen

Guide, Driver and Storyteller

Qualifications: South Africa Tourist Guide, Chauffeur Driver, PDP (Public Driving Permit), and Advanced Driving.

Sam is a proud South African citizen, born in Cape Town. Married with three children and four grandchildren, he values family, community, and the connections he makes through his work.
Sam is a Tourist Guide and Chauffeur Driver. He holds a Public Driving Permit (PDP) and completed an advanced driving course, ensuring both professionalism and safety on every transfer and land tour.

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Known for his reliability, calm driving style, and deep knowledge of Cape Town and its surroundings, Sam consistently earns excellent feedback from guests. Over the years, many international visitors have returned to Cape Town and requested Sam by name, a testament to the trust and relationships he has built. Meeting people from around the world is one of the most rewarding aspects of his career, and he takes pride in ensuring that every guest leaves with lasting memories.
Outside of work, Sam enjoys long walks and hiking, which keep him connected to nature and the beauty of South Africa. His long-term goal is to establish his own tour company, where he can continue providing outstanding service while creating opportunities for others.

Season Guides

In addition to our permanent staff, we also host enthusiastic wildlife lovers who guide on our vessel each high season. These team members are all experienced in working with sharks, either with a biological background or having undertaken field work elsewhere. They give a great insight into being able to compare shark behaviour from other locations to that seen in False Bay.

Wildlife Sightings Cannot Be Guaranteed.

We Will However, Give You Realistic Expectations before Making A Booking.

The First Choice Shark Cage Diving Operator For: