SOUTH AFRICA
SHARK RESEARCH & SARDINE RUN EXPEDITION
26th June-2nd July 2026
Shark Research & Sardine Run Citizen Science | 8 participants (limited spaces)
Guided by Julie Church and Kira Evans
THE GREat sardine migration
Dive into vibrant reefs, witness dramatic feeding frenzies of dolphins, whales, and seabirds, and explore waters teeming with incredible biodiversity found nowhere else on Earth
SOUTH AFRICA
Prepare for a marine adventure like no other off the coast of South Africa, where the ocean comes alive with some of the planet’s most spectacular wildlife. This expedition combines heart-pounding encounters with sharks, dazzling displays of the Sardine Run, and hands-on conservation opportunities, offering an experience that is both thrilling and meaningful.
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Shark conservation diving — Dive alongside the Shark Research Unit at Aliwal Shoal and contribute to critical shark research.
Witness the Sardine Run — Experience one of the ocean’s most dramatic natural events, with opportunities to see dolphins, whales, sharks, and seabirds in a feeding frenzy.
Hands-on citizen science — Collect data on shark behavior, sardine shoals, and predator-prey interactions to support conservation efforts.
Exclusive programming — Participate in curated daily experiences, combining education, adventure, and behind-the-scenes access to marine research.
Explore pristine reefs and coastal waters — Encounter vibrant reef life, turtles, rays, and diverse pelagic species.
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PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent certification)
Good level of physical fitness suitable for daily diving and expedition activities
Deposit required upon booking confirmation.
The remaining balance is due 3 months before departure, ensuring we can make all final payments to our in-country partners 60 days prior to the start of the expedition.
Day-by-Day
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Pre Arrival (25th-26th June)
Your expedition package includes internal flights between Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport) to Durban (King Shaka International Airport). Please arrange arrival at Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport) in advance.
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Sardine Run (26th June–2nd July)
6 nights accommodations at Umngazi Resort. Transfers and transportation to the resort and for all activities while at the resort. 3 meals per day, snacks, coffee & tea. 5 days of sardine run and whale migration sea safaris aboard specially-equipped boats. 5 days of exclusive afternoon group programming, including one-of-a-kind “Where Worlds Meet” experiences. Daily white-glove wetsuit drying service delivered to rooms.
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Aliwal Shoal (2nd-6th July)
4 nights accommodation. 3 days of two-tank shark and reef dives. 3 meals per day, snacks, coffee & tea (additional beverages during hosted activities included). All dive logistics, equipment, and dedicated guides.. Transfers from Scottburgh -> Durban (King Shaka International Airport).
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Post Trip (6th-7th July)
Your expedition package includes internal flights between Durban (King Shaka International Airport) to Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport). Please arrange departure from Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport).
USD 11,780 per person
includes expert guides, activities, and unique marine exploration.
INCLUDED:
Full board accommodation - 3 Meals each day, snacks, coffee and tea (hosted activities include other beverages as well, full bar and extras charged separately)
All diving and activity logistics - 3 days of diving in Aliwal Shoal, 5 days of sardine run and whale migration sea safaris
Additional activities and services - coordinated exclusive group afternoon programming daily and daily white-glove wetsuit drying service delivered dry to customers' rooms each morning.
All transfers throughout the trip: Durban Airport to Resort, transportation for all activities while at the Resort, to Scottburgh and returned to Durban Airport.
Donation to the Seas4Life Foundation to support our community project in Kenya.
Donation to Planet Moja to offset your carbon emissions.
NOT INCLUDED:
International flights are not included in the expedition package. However, the Seas4Life team is more than happy to provide guidance and recommendations on the best flight options to help you plan your journey smoothly.
DAN insurance (mandatory)
Meals or beverages beyond what is listed above
Personal diving gear (guests may bring preferred items; basic dive equipment is provided)
SSI Deep Specialty Course possible with online e-learning before the trip; participants can still join marine data collection.
Tipping: To show appreciation for the incredible work of our local crews, we will provide suggested tipping guidelines tailored to each country we visit. All tips are pooled and distributed equally among the local crew at the end of each expedition segment.
Due to the remote nature of this expedition, internal flights, visas, and travel insurance are paid for separately. However, all arrangements and logistics for these are fully organised and coordinated by Seas4Life to ensure a seamless experience for every guest.