Shark diving is scuba divers' most sought attraction and shark lovers all over the globe are in search of their favourite giant sharks.
Diving with the sharks is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic experiences. The myths, the scary stories and even scarier films have turned sharks into the most fearful creatures that rule the sea. The reality is exactly the opposite.
Despite the huge number of films with shark attacks and the creatures' gruesome reputation, shark attacks are rare and even rarer on divers. Since 2006, just 130 shark attacks have been reported worldwide. Not one of these attacks has occurred during a guided tour.
Because of the irresistible aura of danger and threat that surrounds the Great Whites people are drawn to South African waters, where the sharks are plentiful. In 1991, South Africa became the first country in the world to protect the Great White shark. Cage diving with Great Whites is clearly the top of the list for all adrenaline junkies. In Gansbaai, near Cape Town, there are several diving companies which will take the keen divers on their greatest adventure.
It is the World Capital of the Great White Shark, with Dyer Island presenting the best place to discover, observe and dive with these elusive and wonderful animals. Dyer Island is a breeding colony for jackass penguins while seals breed on nearby Geyser Island. There is a narrow channel in the sea between Geyser Rock and Dyer Island which is home to up to 60 000 Cape Fur Seals.
The sea around these islands has become the feeding ground of the endangered great white shark and regular shark safaris are undertaken from Gansbaai. Since the area around Dyer Island has been declared a nature reserve, boats may only enter this area with a permit given by the Department of Nature Conservation.
A system is being developed by the people in Gansbaai through which careful, controlled diving will have a positive effect and will generate the necessary funds to protect these amazing creatures.
Great White Shark Tours - for info or tour bookings.
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