Western Cape dive sites

Broadnose sevengill cow sharks are generally non-aggressive toward divers and encounters at Gordon's Bay are considered safe with appropriate behaviour. These sharks are curious and may approach divers closely but have no history of unprovoked attacks in the False Bay area. Divers should remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and not attempt to touch or corner the sharks. The sevengills here are wild animals in their natural habitat, not bait-attracted, so encounters are genuine and behaviour is natural. Some dive operators offer guided sevengill shark dives with experienced guides who know the animals' movement patterns and preferred resting areas. It is advisable to dive with a guide on your first visit to understand the local conditions and shark behaviour.

Gordon's Bay water temperatures range from twelve degrees in winter to twenty degrees in summer, though cold upwelling events can drop temperatures suddenly even during warm months. A seven-millimetre semi-dry or dry suit is standard equipment for Cape diving year-round. Hoods, gloves, and booties are essential even in summer. The cold water is part of what makes the diving remarkable: the nutrient-rich upwelling from the deep Benguela system supports the dense kelp forests and abundant marine life that characterise this coastline. Divers accustomed to tropical waters should plan for shorter dive times as the cold increases air consumption. A cup of rooibos tea or hot chocolate after the dive is a Cape diving tradition.

The dive entry point is at the Steenbras River Mouth area on the eastern shore of Gordon's Bay, accessible via Beach Road. Parking is available near the slipway, and the shore entry is over rocks that can be slippery with algae. Sturdy booties are essential. The entry is best attempted during calm sea conditions, as the rocky shoreline can be hazardous in heavy swell. Many divers prefer to enter from the harbour wall in Gordon's Bay and swim or scooter to the reef. Several dive centres in Gordon's Bay and nearby Strand offer guided shore dives with equipment rental. The drive from Cape Town takes approximately forty-five minutes via the N2 highway.

Shark Alley is located in False Bay on the Cape Peninsula, approximately 40 minutes drive south of Cape Town. Dive operators depart from Simon's Town harbour, with the boat ride to the dive sites taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on conditions. Simon's Town is easily accessible by car or by the scenic Metrorail train from Cape Town. Several dedicated shark diving operators are based in the harbour.

Broadnose sevengill sharks are generally non-aggressive toward divers but should always be treated with respect. They are large predators reaching over three metres in length and may approach closely out of curiosity. Dive operators brief all participants on proper behaviour, including maintaining eye contact, staying low on the reef, and avoiding sudden movements. No cage is used for sevengill encounters. Incidents with divers are virtually unheard of.