Day Trips
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
R 4 355
per adult
Marine Dynamics Shark Tours
Marine Dynamics Shark Tours
Marine Dynamics Shark Tours
4.5
Shark DivingAdrenaline & Extreme ToursBoat ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
Marine Dynamics Shark Tours is a shark cage diving company in South Africa that is truly making a difference through research, conservation and education, and protecting the animals and environment on which it relies for a living. Every trip includes an onboard marine biologist educating clients on the iconic great white shark. African Responsible Tourism Award winner Marine Dynamics is Fair Trade Tourism certified with Blue Flag certified vessels and provides logistical and financial support to the owner established Dyer Island Conservation Trust. Marine Dynamics lives by the motto of ‘Discover and Protect’ and believes that “YOUR CHOICE MAKES A DIFFERENCE.” Marine Dynamics believes that #ScienceSavesSharks and has white shark specialists studying the iconic great white in order to drive conservation decisions for the species. We specialize in a 5-star service and meet in the thatched-roof lodge, The Great White House.
Gansbaai, South Africa
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Marine Dynamics Shark Tours
On the Water
6 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
R 4 055
per adult
Travellers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2 441 reviews
Excellent
1 890
Very good
307
Average
116
Poor
64
Terrible
64
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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Joop V
25 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Marine Dynamics was recommended to us as "The Golden Standard" in Shark tours and they certainly delivered on that. A very professional and safe tour in a slightly larger but not too big boat. We left from Gansbaai after extensive information, safety instructions and a small breakfast. Pleasant crew and we saw a lot of sharks. We did not enter the cage ourselves (we knew that in advance) but we were able to see and experience everything clearly from the upper deck. What was very pleasant is that when we requested the photos in a higher resolution than those in the Marine Dynamics blog a few weeks after our tour, we immediately received the photos by email. It was a 'Golden' experience!
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wombling_Free_7548
Bristol, UK2 210 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
A very safe and professional trip, managed to see bronze whaler sharks which was very impressive, and they were very upfront about no great whites being spotted for a while. The bait handlers did a great job bringing the sharks close enough see their teeth. Journey out was quite rough so definitely take sea sickness tablets. Only thing I would change is had to be there at 9.30 am but didn’t really get going until 10.30, there was quite a lot of preamble that I felt would have been good to skip if I had the option
Written 2 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your recent shark diving experience with us. We are delighted to hear that you found the trip to be safe and professionally managed. We're thrilled you had the opportunity to observe bronze whaler sharks up close and witness their impressive teeth. Our team of bait handlers is indeed dedicated to creating a memorable and educational experience for our guests.
We appreciate your feedback regarding the timing and the duration of the introductory session. We would like to shed some light on our procedures. To streamline the check-in process, we offer a light breakfast or lunch upon arrival, allowing everyone to fuel up while completing the necessary check-in process. Additionally, we send an online check-in option a day prior to the tour to expedite the process. Upon arrival, our marine biologist or guide double-checks the wetsuit sizes you have selected to ensure a comfortable fit during the dive.
We want to emphasize that the safety briefing, is mandatory and forms a crucial part of our tour. Ensuring everyone is well-informed and aware of the safety protocols is our top priority.
We appreciate your input and will continue to review the introductory session to make it more efficient without compromising on essential information.
Once again, we thank you for your valuable feedback, your choice makes a difference.
Written 3 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Monty Stoller
Stäfa, Switzerland364 contributions
Feb 2020
What an experience! Due to the blog of the organizer we were absolutely aware that we can experience everything weather-wise. It seemed as if we had chosen an almost perfect day. Early in the morning it was still a bit windy and overcast but when we arrived in Kleinbaai the clouds had already dissipated. After an instructive 30 minutes introduction we finally went on a small boat towards the sea. Already after a few minutes we moored and the first visitors put on their neoprene suit and climbed into the cage. Our daughter was also part of this group. Fortunately, the visibility on the boat as well as in the water was very good. After a short time 5 Bronze Whaler sharks swam around the cage. They were joined by a huge amount of fish and birds and a Cape Fur seal. Unfortunately there was no great white shark to see today but the animals mentioned were spectacular enough. The only disadvantage is the relatively long waiting time as each group is in the water for about 30 minutes. Also several visitors got seasick because the boat can sway a lot.
The crew was always helpful
A unique experience, highly recommended!
The crew was always helpful
A unique experience, highly recommended!
Written 13 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Monty! Thank you so much for your review and comments ! We are so glad that it was an experience to remember !
Our boats are the biggest in the industry. It is a 14m in length catamaran built by naval architects with a steel and aluminium hull, we can fit comfortably 35 people. We want to give as much time to our clients in the water as possible, and as we are working with wildlife and it is a daily adventure, the time in the water varies on shark activity.
Thank you for choosing us, your choice makes a difference.
Kind regards, Team MD
Written 16 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LondonSally
Lipari, Italy2 584 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
We booked for a big 5 and only saw some whales, very distant penguins and some seals. They didn't take us to see the sharks and when I asked for explanations they made up a lot of excuses (I live in the Aeolian Islands and work as a guide using boats, I understand a little)
They even had the nerve to say that we had only paid to see the whales, when in fact it was for the big 5
That the shark boat was in the water with us, while instead it had entered the water with us
And that there was bad weather, when in fact it was flat and furthermore the boat immediately managed with another group.
Furthermore, we were supposed to be on the boat for 2 to 2 and a half hours, but instead we only stayed for 1 and a half hours (they were in a hurry to get back because there was another group)
Absolutely avoid this agency.
A unique disappointment!
They even had the nerve to say that we had only paid to see the whales, when in fact it was for the big 5
That the shark boat was in the water with us, while instead it had entered the water with us
And that there was bad weather, when in fact it was flat and furthermore the boat immediately managed with another group.
Furthermore, we were supposed to be on the boat for 2 to 2 and a half hours, but instead we only stayed for 1 and a half hours (they were in a hurry to get back because there was another group)
Absolutely avoid this agency.
A unique disappointment!
Written 23 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MissTMA
Cape Town Central, South Africa175 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
I recently did an excellent Marine Big 5 boat trip with Marine Dynamics. Their operation is well run, slick, on time and professional. I was impressed by the friendliness and helpfulness of all their staff from check in to the briefing to the actual boat trip and after. Would highly recommend them to all tourists keen to see the marine big 5 or shark cage dive.
Written 30 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your wonderful review!
We're thrilled to hear that you had an excellent Marine Big 5 boat trip with Marine Dynamics.
Our team takes pride in running a well-organized, efficient, and professional operation, and we're glad that it was evident throughout your experience. Being on time and providing a seamless experience is important to us, and we're delighted that you noticed and appreciated our efforts.
We're especially pleased to hear that our staff impressed you with their friendliness and helpfulness. We believe that a welcoming and supportive team enhances the overall experience for our guests, and we're glad that they made a positive impression from check-in to the briefing, and throughout the boat trip and afterward.
Thank you for recommending us to all tourists who are keen to see the Marine Big 5 or go Shark Cage Diving. We appreciate your trust and endorsement. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future for more incredible marine adventures!
Written 9 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jo S
Birmingham, UK113 contributions
Mar 2022
What a totally amazing experience we recently enjoyed on the Marine Big 5 trip from Kleinbaai.
From the minute we arrived at Great White House we knew we were heading for a very special experience. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable and friendly and the whole trip far exceeded our expectations. A special thank you to the marine biologist, the boat’s skipper and the rest of the crew for making this such a special day out. We have already recommended the experience to friends who are planning to visit this wonderful area.
From the minute we arrived at Great White House we knew we were heading for a very special experience. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable and friendly and the whole trip far exceeded our expectations. A special thank you to the marine biologist, the boat’s skipper and the rest of the crew for making this such a special day out. We have already recommended the experience to friends who are planning to visit this wonderful area.
Written 8 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Jo S for your 5-star review!
The Marine Big 5 crew always strives to give a 5-star experience for our guests and we appreciate your compliments in regards to our staff. They will be happy to know that they were attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly throughout your trip. We will also notify the biologist and skipper from your trip that day and pass your review along. Thank you for your support and for suggesting the Marine Big 5 to future travellers. We hope to have you on board again soon!
Written 28 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
StellaMarina
Bergen, Norway171 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Fantastic! We stayed at their B&B that was very nice. We went for sharkdiving tour and whale tour. Both was very exelent. We also visited the pinguin hospital. We had a great time! Our daughter has stayed there in 2 month as a voluntary and she was very satisfied with the program.
Written 7 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thenysia Krishna
Stellenbosch, South Africa19 contributions
Sept 2023 • Business
What a memorable experience we had. From the time of arrival Aletta and her team were so attentive and warm. The light breakfast was just perfect to fill those holes in our tummy before our trip.... without being too much for the sharks to feed on 🦈🤣.
The Marine Big 5 trip was very informative and also unforgettable! The guides on the boat are very knowledgeable and are always ready to answer any of your questions.
Thank you for having the Delaire Team!
The Marine Big 5 trip was very informative and also unforgettable! The guides on the boat are very knowledgeable and are always ready to answer any of your questions.
Thank you for having the Delaire Team!
Written 26 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that your time with Aletta and our team at Marine Dynamics was memorable.
It's great to know that you enjoyed the light breakfast - a perfect balance to satisfy your hunger without tempting the sharks too much :D We believe in providing an enjoyable experience for both our guests and the marine life we encounter.
We're delighted that you found our Marine Big 5 whale-watching trip informative and unforgettable. Our guides take pride in sharing their knowledge and ensuring our guests have a deeper understanding of the incredible marine world.
Thank you for choosing us and bringing the Delaire Team along. We hope to welcome you all back for more unforgettable adventures in the future!
Written 3 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rustic_Rhino
Somerset50 contributions
Aug 2019 • Family
I had the privilege to share a great couple of hours watching Great White Shark in their natural environment. The team at Marine Dynamics were fantastic and looked after everyone so well - even the dignity they offered those unfortunate to be sea sick was fantastic - passing and collecting bags from the cage when necessary. The viewing was brilliant and at no time were the sharks encouraged to go for the cage....A stunning memory etched forever!
Written 23 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey there! Thank you so much for this glowing review !! Your choice makes such a difference to our work in the bay and helps maintain the research done to better understand these amazing animals !! Thank you Thank you Thank you !! Warm regards, Team MD
Written 23 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Zan
South Africa8 contributions
Feb 2022 • Solo
I joined the volunteer programme go four weeks- and it was an enriching and exciting experience! The staff body were incredible, friendly and passionate. I enjoyed loads of shark cage diving, whale and seal watching and working at the penguin sanctuary. I would recommend the volunteer programme as well as a shark cage diving day trip. Just a note that there have been no great white spottings as of late.
Written 19 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Zan!
Thank you for your review. It is always good to hear from our volunteers and their experiences. Thank you for complimenting the crew and we will communicate this back to them as well! We are happy you enjoyed your program and the time you spent on the boat; whale watching, shark cage diving, and working at the penguin sanctuary.
And remember, by volunteering with the Marine Dynamics Academy, you are playing a vital role in contributing to the conservation of marine animals on the South African coast. Thank you for your time and support!
Written 1 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hey there! Looking to book a shark cage diving and I have Thursday (2/27), Friday (2/28), and Sunday (2/30) available. Any recommendations on which day would be best and if I should do the 7am or 11am departure?
Written 25 July 2023
Hey there! Looking to book a shark cage diving and I have Thursday (2/27), Friday (2/28), and Sunday (2/30) available. Any recommendations on which day would be best and if I should do the 7am or 11am departure?
Written 25 July 2023
Hi, we are looking to book the "Shark Cage Diving and Viewing from Cape Town" but we don't need to pickup and drop-off in the hotel, we have a car. How can we book without the shuttle?
Written 1 March 2020
Hi Gabriel ! You can book your place on our boat via our website! Please keep in mind that we are about 2h outside of Cape Town! Kind regards, Team MD
Written 9 March 2020
If I book a 7:00am tour, approximately what time would I return to Cape Town following the tour?
Written 7 February 2020
The tour transfer arrives back into Cape Town at approximately 3pm.
Written 7 February 2020
Hello! We travel to Cape Town next week, we arrive december 25. These period is possible to see great white sharks? We have 2 days for option: 26 or 29, but in the last day we travel on 8pm.
Written 21 December 2019
Hi! Tell me please, in November we can see great white sharks?
Written 9 November 2019
Hi, we are hoping to visit on the 11th October. Do you recommend the 7am or the 11am start? Does it make any difference?
Written 22 September 2019
We did 11 and saw many sharks
If you choose 7am you could be picked up as early as 2-3am
Written 23 September 2019
Hi, how much is the trip when we start in Kleinbaai?
There are different prices for a trip without diving?
Written 19 July 2019
Hi Michael, thanks for your question.
The trip rate is R2250 per person, for adults.
This includes the cage dive, wet suit, weight belt, scuba mask, breakfast\ lunch before the trip and hot soup and homemade bread after it.
There is no special rate for non-divers.
Please also let us know of you would like to book transportation with us.
Do not hesitate to contact us again in case of any further questions.
Warmest regards,
Team MD
Written 22 July 2019
Hi, We like to do this tour on Chrismas day, but are already staying in Gansbaai. Is there a tour where you can just go to the boat yourself without a pick up?
Written 11 June 2019
Hello there, thank you for your question!
Yes, you can book a shark cage dive without pickup.
When booking online select the option stating "Shark Cage Diving".
Otherwise, you are more than welcome to email us (sharks@marinedynamicstravel,com) or phone directly if you would like to receive further assistance for your booking.
We are very looking forward to having you!
Kind regards,
Team MD
Written 12 June 2019
Hi,
my name is Adriana, I am going in September to do this trip and I have some doubts:
How many times is possible to be in the cage?
in case of cancellations due to the weather conditions, is it possible to re arrange the tour in the next day? We will have just 3 days in cape town.
Thanks a lot!
Written 25 May 2019
Hello Adriana,
thank you for your question, please excuse our late reply!
Your time in the cage is completely dependent on the shark activity of the day and your trip. Of course we try to give each diver the same experience and time in the cage.
In case of cancellation we will definitely try to reschedule as soon as possible. Even though this might be just the next day, this can't be guaranteed as we might have full booked boats for that day already.
Please do not hesitate to contact us again, either here, via social media or email.
We are very looking forward to having you in September.
Kind regards,
Team MD
Written 4 June 2019
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