Extreme Adventure Cape Town Shark Scuba Diving

Cape Town offers a unique and thrilling underwater experience: scuba diving with broadnose sevengill cow sharks and the famous Cape fur seals. This guided dive combines two unforgettable encounters in one trip – the graceful glide of one of the ocean’s oldest predators and the curious antics of South Africa’s most entertaining pinnipeds.

Whether you’re a shark lover or marine life enthusiast, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness natural ocean behaviour up close and in their pristine kelp forest habitat.

Book your shark scuba dive in Cape Town for just R2200 per person (excluding dive kit). Kit rental is an additional R495 for a complete set.

Shark Scuba Diving in Cape Town Trip Overview

This half-day shark scuba diving experience takes place in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, and is available year-round. Divers will explore depths ranging from 6 to 12 metres in cool Atlantic waters with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. The adventure includes two distinct dives: one with the curious Cape Fur Seals and another with the elusive Broadnose Sevengill Cow Sharks. Along the way, you may also encounter pyjama sharks, shysharks, and the occasional ray. To participate, divers must hold at least an Open Water certification.

What to Expect

Dive One: The Seals of Partridge Point

We start with a fun and relaxed dive with the Cape Fur Seals at Partridge Point. These animals are curious, fast, and playful – making for incredible encounters and photo opportunities. You’ll swim among dozens of them as they twist and turn through the kelp and interact with divers in the shallows.

Dive Two: The Mysterious Sevengill Cow Sharks

Your second dive takes place at a site known as Shark Alley or Millers Point, where the elusive Broadnose Sevengill Cow Shark patrols the kelp forest. These prehistoric sharks grow up to 3 metres in length and move with an eerie calmness, often swimming right up to divers with slow curiosity. The experience is surreal and humbling.

The kelp forest environment adds a dreamlike atmosphere, with filtered light and swaying fronds as the perfect backdrop for your dive.

About the Broadnose Sevengill Cow Shark

The broadnose sevengill cow shark (Notorynchus cepedianus), often called the 7-gill shark, is a fascinating species that stands out with seven gill slits instead of the typical five found in most sharks. Reaching lengths of up to 3 metres, these ancient predators are known for their calm, inquisitive nature and are completely at home in the cold, kelp-rich waters of False Bay. Their slow, graceful movements and curious behaviour make for an awe-inspiring dive experience. Considered a “living fossil,” this species has remained largely unchanged for over 200 million years, making any encounter with them feel like a step back in evolutionary time.

What’s Included & What to Bring

Your dive package includes two boat dives—one with the Cape Fur Seals and one with the Broadnose Sevengill Cow Sharks—led by an experienced dive guide. All necessary gear can be rented, and you’ll receive a full marine life briefing before entering the water. Light refreshments are provided onboard, and optional underwater photos or videos can be arranged on request. To make the most of your adventure, remember to bring your dive certification card, a swimsuit, towel, warm clothing for the boat ride, and an underwater camera or GoPro if you have one. Most importantly, come with a sense of adventure and curiosity for South Africa’s rich marine life.

Book Your Shark Dive Today

Spaces for the 7-Gill Cow Shark and Seal Dive are limited due to conditions and dive regulations. Book early to secure your preferred date. This dive is a must for underwater photographers, shark lovers, and anyone looking to experience Cape Town’s marine diversity.

Want to see more species of sharks?

Want to experience all the best shark diving experiences South Africa offers in one incredible 12-day package? Visit Scuba Mozambique for this thrilling adventure holiday.