After four attempts to cage dive with the great whites, we headed out from Hermanus to Gansbaai at 5:00 a.m. in 0°C temperatures, anticipating the great adventure. Joyce was nervous but determined to face the rough seas and the “Jaws” of the sea.
After our briefing and a small snack (importance to be explained shortly), we headed out on giant rolling seas for a 15-minute ride aboard a 12-metre dive boat towards Dyer Island, which is very near Shark Alley—well known as the location where 90% of the world’s great white documentaries have been filmed.
We set anchor near three other boats, about 1 km offshore from the island, chummed the waters and waited in high anticipation.
And waited, and waited, while several of the younger crowd who happened to eat a big breakfast (told you we would get to this) proceeded to turn green and puke over the side of the boat.
Once the scrambled eggs and toast were wiped away, we lifted anchor. None of the nearby boats that had arrived earlier had seen anything yet, so the skipper figured we should try another spot.
We motored a little farther while watching a few more landlubbers retch over the side, and then re-anchored.
And we waited and waited, the smell of puke permeating the fresh salty air.
Our great adventure was not to be. Five swashbucklers were picked up by the “seasick rescue boat,” and about an hour later, we headed back to shore, heartened by the knowledge that we would receive a coupon good for two years to use when we made our return to South Africa.
Wow, what a deal! We’ll be back!
Knysna is a small town on the coast of the Western Cape and is well known for the huge variety of hiking trails in the region. Unfortunately, two weeks before our arrival, the area was hit by one of the largest forest fires in over 100 years, the result of a year-long drought.
Eight people died, and over 800 homes, lodges and businesses were destroyed. Amazingly, our lodge was spared, but all around it were the burnt-out remnants of homes and other lodges. Needless to say, the hiking in the area had been devastated.
The town has two main touristy areas—the Waterfront and Thesen Island—both dotted with nice restaurants, curio shops and bars.
Well Mr. Robson it’s was a pleasure meeting you. I hope next time you come to SA the sharks will play along. Consider taking some steaks from the Freestate next time you’re out on the water… I’m pretty sure Jaws and his mates will appreciate the snack. Safe travels and don’t forget to get some R&R’s in Mozambique.
Awwww…that’s too bad…I was looking forward to shark photos accompanied with the soundtrack from “Jaws!”😂😘