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white sharks conservation

in the blue ocean

Overview

Our volunteer program offers a unique opportunity to get involved with meaningful research studying Great White Sharks and other shark species in the Great White Shark capital of the world, as well as contribute towards white shark marine conservation in South Africa.

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Since the Great White Shark population in South Africa is at potential risk of extinction with numbers believed to be around 300-500, our White Shark research focuses primarily on monitoring the numbers of these apex predators in our waters, with the aim of obtaining another population estimate within the next two to three years. We are using dorsal fin identification to identify and closely monitor the different individuals we are observing each day, and building a comprehensive database of fins photographed.

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Participants in the program will assist with data collection and data management for the projects outlined above. Volunteers will gain a considerable amount of sea experience and valuable research skills, both on our cage diving boat and dedicated research vessel.

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Daily activities include cage-diving trips, shark tagging trips (from our research boat and from the shoreline), snorkeling for sharks in the kelp forests, beach clean ups, equipment maintenance, video analysis and more. Volunteers will get to interact daily with our scientists and learn all about Great White Sharks and other marine wildlife in our area. Participants will also have the opportunity to interact with the local community by supporting our shark conservation, education and outreach projects.

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We endeavor to make your time with us a personal and career building experience, providing extensive training in all projects and tailoring the volunteer program to meet your individual needs. Included in the program are several chances to be involved with cage-diving activities and come face to face with the magnificent Great White Shark in an unforgettable diving experience!

Excursions

Couple of Penguins
Woman Snorkeling with Stingray

  • A trip to  the southernmost point of Africa

  • A visit see the penguin colony

  • The highest bungee jump in the world

  • A visit to the local heritage site Klipgat Cave

  • Hikes in the local area

  • Horse riding trips in the local area

  • Shopping excursions and wine tasting in Hermanus or Cape Town

  • River boat cruises along Stanford River

  • Surfing or SCUBA diving

  • Visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Waterfront in Cape Town

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Please note that excursions are at an additional cost

What's included

  • 2 Airport Transfers from and to Cape Town

  • One night’s accommodation in Cape Town on arrival

  • Accommodation

  • 24 hour support and supervisor

  • Donation to the project

  • All food basics

  • Welcome pack (including hoodie, t-shirt, cap, buff and shark USB with Great White Shark footage)

  • Trips on our White Shark cage diving tourist boat

  • Tagging trips on our research boat

  • Cage dive with white sharks

  • Practical training in all running projects

  • Training in boat handling skills

  • Outreach activities e.g. beach clean ups and school talks

  • Some excursions organised

  • Amazing Lifetime Experience

What am I paying for? click here
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