The Sardine Run, a Magnificent Ocean Migration.

The Sardine Run ocean experience is the single finest event on the marine calendar because you never know what each day and hour will bring. This, along with the most fantastic marine encounters, makes the Sardine Run ocean experience the single greatest event on the marine calendar.

Annual Sardine Run, June and July

As the name suggests, billions of sardines move northward along the east coast of South Africa. The sardine run takes place annually during June and July. The sardine run passes the small coastal town of Port St Johns, and it is from here that dive operators launch their daily trips. This momentous event is known as the greatest shoal on earth and creates a feeding frenzy for sharks, whales and dolphins. Diving the run is the pinnacle of all dive adventures for most scuba divers and snorkelers across the globe.

Sardine Run Big Predators

This boat-based trip is suitable for scuba divers and snorkelers, enjoyed by nature lovers, bird watchers, photographers, dolphin and whale lovers. Dive into the water with Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Cape Gannets, Brides whales, Humpback Whales, Dusky Sharks, Copper Sharks, Bull Sharks, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Ragged Tooth Sharks and Cape Fur Seals. Experienced operators and crew offer daily shark, whale and dolphin diving as weather allows.

Sardine Run More Information

The daily goal is to get in on the bait ball action. On days where we do not find any bait balls to dive with, a dedicated shark, whale or dolphin dive will be at the order of the day. Spotter planes keep the dive operators informed of the bait ball movements. By constant communication, dive operators know exactly where to intercept the run with their rubber duck dive boats. Divers await the bait ball, prepped and ready to drop in on instruction.

Included

Full and exclusive aerial support (spotting) with our aircraft & pilot
Lodge Accommodation – Dinner + Bed + Breakfast basis
Ocean days (weather permitting)
Cylinder / air & Weights / belt
Packed boat refreshments
Diver permit to dive within Pondoland marine protected area

Excluded

Drinks / items of a personal nature
Meals (excl. Dinner + Bed + Breakfast)
Transfers (can be arranged at an additional charge)
Dive gear rental
Additional chargeable land-based activities
Diver / travel insurance, Air fares / taxes & Passports / Visas
Gratuities for staff

Rates Per Person Sharing

4 Nights / 3 Days, R18 500
5 Nights / 4 Days, R24 500
6 Nights / 5 Days, R30 500
7 Nights / 5 Days, R32 000
7 Nights / 6 Days, R36 500
8 Nights / 6 Days, R38 000
8 Nights / 7 Days, R42 500
9 Nights / 8 Days, R48 500
10 Nights / 9 Days, R50 500
12 Nights / 10 Days, R57 500

Facilities include WIFI, a Drying room for wetsuits, Hot shower rinse-off at boat jetty area, Walking distance to a convenience shop and liquor store, fuel station, swimming pools (1 heated / 1 un-heated), Family room and twin bedrooms.