Swim into the Wildest Show on Earth
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure — the legendary Sardine Run off the coast of Port St. Johns, South Africa. Each year, millions of sardines migrate north along the Wild Coast, triggering a feeding frenzy that attracts dolphins, sharks, whales, seals, and seabirds in breathtaking numbers. It’s a front-row seat to nature’s greatest marine spectacle.
Swim with hundreds of dolphins, glide past whales, and dive alongside sharks and soaring Cape gannets — all in one day. This is the kind of experience you’d expect from a BBC Earth or Nat Geo documentary… only you’re not watching it! You’re in it.
As part of the expedition, you’ll also have the option to explore Aliwal Shoal, one of the world’s top dive sites.
We take care of everything so you can focus on the adventure:
✔ All transfers & transport
✔ Comfortable accommodation
✔ Guided diving/snorkeling excursions
✔ Cylinders, air refills & permits
✔ Boat lunches and more
The action typically begins around Port Elizabeth and East London, but the heart of the migration is between East London and Port St. Johns; the prime zone for spotting bait balls, Common and Bottlenose dolphins, Humpback whales, Brindle whales, Dusky, Copper, Bull, Ragged-tooth, and Blacktip sharks, seals, and even sailfish.
While bait balls are the ultimate goal, nature writes the script. Some days are calm; others are full-throttle ocean drama. No two days are ever the same — and that’s exactly what makes this expedition so exhilarating.
It’s the ultimate Ocean Safari.
Unpredictable? Yes.
Unforgettable? Absolutely.
Join us and become part of the adventure.
Day 1 – Arrival at Durban! Welcome to Shark Territory!
Once you land at Durban International Airport (KSIA / DUR) (or your chosen pick-up point), our team will be waiting to greet you with big smiles and even bigger excitement.
A scenic 80km coastal drive takes you to Blue Ocean Dive Resort in the charming dive town of Umkomaas.
After check-in, feel free to unwind by the pool, stroll the beach, or sip something tropical at the bar.
In the late afternoon, join us for a briefing on shark diving at the famous Aliwal Shoal.
Finish your first day with a delicious dinner at their on-site restaurant.
Day 2: Dive into the Deep with Sharks at Aliwal Shoal (2 Dives)
Start your underwater adventure with two exhilarating dives exploring the dramatic reefs of Aliwal Shoal:
You might encounter Ragged Tooth Sharks, Blacktip Sharks, Dusky Sharks, and maybe even the elusive Tiger or Bull Shark!
It’s the perfect warm-up before the high-speed action of the Sardine Run.
Fine-tune your gear, weights, and buoyancy with our experienced dive team.
Day 3: Road Trip to the Wild Coast – Port St. Johns Awaits
We hit the road around 10:00 AM for a 4-hour scenic drive through rolling hills, rural villages, and coastal landscapes. Our destination: Port St. Johns, nestled at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River and gateway to the action-packed Wild Coast.
Settle into your accommodation and prepare for five epic days of ocean safari bliss.
Days 4–8: 5 Days of Ocean Safari Madness
Let the Wild Chase Begin!
Each day starts with early morning intelligence briefings: Where are the sardines today?
Then we launch at around 7:00 AM, heading out to sea in search of bait balls and feeding frenzies.
What to expect:
Dolphins slicing through silver shoals
Sharks weaving between the chaos
Cape gannets dive-bombing from the sky
Whales breaching beside the boat
Millions of sardines moving like liquid art
Depending on the speed of the action and behavior of the animals, we’ll jump in on snorkel or scuba, sometimes both in one day!
Every day is different. Every moment is wild.
After returning to shore in the late afternoon:
Relax with a drink and sunset views
Explore the laid-back charm of Port St. Johns
Day 9: Return to Durban or Go Wild on Safari
After breakfast, we depart Port St. Johns at 8:00 AM and transfer you back to Durban International Airport, arriving around 2:00 PM.
Want more?
Extend your adventure with an optional Big 5 Safari add-on and go from ocean giants to land legends in just a day!
Experience the raw power and beauty of the Sardine Run, where billions of sardines migrate up South Africa’s Wild Coast, triggering a full-blown feeding frenzy unlike anything else on Earth.
DIVER (Sharing)
DIVER SINGLE
add a Big 5 Safari Trip
We keep groups small for maximum flexibility, personal attention, and the best chances of finding the action. No overcrowded boats, just a tight-knit crew and unforgettable encounters.
Nestled on the banks of the majestic Umzimvubu River in Port St. Johns, the Spotted Grunter Resort offers the perfect balance of comfort, relaxation, and nature; right in the heart of Sardine Run territory.
What to Expect
Why We Love It
After chasing bait balls and diving with dolphins and sharks all day, there’s nothing better than returning to a peaceful retreat like Spotted Grunter. Enjoy a hot shower, a hearty meal, and a drink on the deck as the sun sets over the river; pure Wild Coast magic.
Your Gateway to Aliwal Shoal’s Marine Wonders
Nestled in the coastal town of Umkomaas, about a 45-minute drive south of Durban International Airport, Blue Ocean Dive Resort offers an unforgettable stay in a charming colonial-style lodge set amongst lush tropical gardens, overlooking the Indian Ocean and local golf course.
Accommodation & Atmosphere
A beautifully restored 1934 heritage building with 20 spacious en‑suite rooms, including singles, twins, doubles, and family options, accommodating up to 54 guests, with no single supplement fees
With complimentary Wi‑Fi, 24/7 security, a small swimming pool, and a sun deck offering sweeping sea views and sunset moments over the waves
Restaurant & Bar
On-site sea-view restaurant and bar serving breakfast, wood‑fired pizzas, local seafood dishes, and drinks beneath the palm trees
A relaxed gathering spot for social evenings — think “braai” BBQ-style dinners, dive debriefs, sunset drinks, and video sharing around the fire
Photographers and videographers love it for its raw, cinematic wildlife moments.
There are many daily flights to Durban International Airport (KSIA / DUR), some are direct international flights (Emirates via Dubai, Qatar via Doha, BA via Heathrow, Turkish Air via Istanbul).
There are daily flights to Durban from Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT)
Our packages include all transfers from Durban Airport to our Dive Resort and to Port St Johns for the Sardine Run.
ARRIVAL DAY: DAY-1 OF YOUR PACKAGE
DEPARTURE DAY: FINAL DAY OF YOUR PACKAGE
The Sardine Run typically occurs between late May and mid-July, with June being the peak of activity around Port St. Johns — our primary base for the expedition.
South African Rand (ZAR)
English (and Afrikaans ofcourse 😉 )
Not necessarily.
While scuba diving certification is required to join the dives, much of the Sardine Run action can be experienced while snorkeling. Many encounters happen at or near the surface, so even non-divers can enjoy thrilling experiences in the water.
No. Nature is wild and unpredictable — that’s what makes this expedition exciting. While bait ball encounters are one of the highlights, they don’t happen every day. However, daily sightings of dolphins, whales, sharks, and bird activity are extremely common, and the overall ocean safari experience is consistently phenomenal.
You may encounter:
Common & Bottlenose dolphins (often in the hundreds)
Humpback whales
Cape gannets (diving en masse)
Seals
Dusky, Ragged-tooth, Blacktip, Copper, Bull & Tiger sharks
Game fish and even sailfish
And of course… millions of sardines!
Yes !! Safety is our top priority. Our crew is highly experienced, our boats are fully equipped, and all activities are weather- and condition-dependent. However, participants must be comfortable in open water and aware that ocean conditions can change rapidly.
We recommend bringing your own gear for familiarity and comfort, but rentals are available upon request.
Mask, snorkel, and fins (full-foot fins are ideal for boat entries)
Wetsuit (5mm to 7mm recommended for South Africa’s winter ocean temperatures of 17–21°C / 63–70°F)
Dive computer (required for all scuba divers)
BCD and regulator set (DIN or yoke – confirm compatibility)
Booties and gloves (for warmth and protection)
Weight belt (optional – we provide weights if needed)
Surface marker buoy (SMB/DSMB – highly recommended)
Underwater torch or dive light
Dry bag or waterproof box for personal items on the boat
Spare parts kit (mask strap, fin strap, mouthpiece, O-rings, etc.)
The climate is mild to warm, but early mornings and evenings can be cool. Dress for layering and comfort.
Lightweight T-shirts, tank tops, and shorts
Long pants and warm layers for cool evenings
Light fleece, hoodie, or jacket for wind and warmth
Waterproof or windbreaker jacket for boat rides
Swimsuits (bring at least two)
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
Sun hat or cap
Sunglasses with UV protection (polarized if possible)
Reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF
Lip balm with SPF
Toiletries (consider biodegradable options)
Travel-size laundry detergent (optional for hand-washing)
Capture your experience while protecting your gear from the elements.
Waterproof camera, action cam, or GoPro
Underwater housing and accessories
Extra batteries and memory cards
Laptop or tablet (optional, for backups or editing)
Power adapter for South Africa (Type M plug, 230V)
Headlamp or flashlight (useful for early mornings and evenings)
Any personal medication (with a copy of prescriptions)
Motion sickness medication (Dramamine, Stugeron, or similar)
Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, antihistamines, etc.)
Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Tissues or wet wipes
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages)
Dive certification card and/or logbook
Proof of travel and dive insurance (required for divers)
Flight details and travel confirmations
Credit/debit card and a small amount of cash in South African Rand (ZAR)
Pen for customs and entry forms
Waterproof pouch or document wallet
Book, Kindle, or travel journal
Reusable water bottle or thermos
Power bank or portable charger
Waterproof phone case or pouch
Quick-dry towel or compact beach towel
Small backpack or waterproof day bag for excursions
Snacks or energy bars for long boat days
Cooler bag or insulated bottle for cold drinks
The water temperature ranges between 19°C and 21°C (66 to 70°F). The “Run” takes place during the South African winter, which is the dry season. In theory, this means there is little river runoff, so the water should offer good visibility. However, because the sardines and their predators can stir up the water significantly, actual visibility can vary from 5 meters (15 ft) to over 20 meters (60 ft). For safety, we only enter the water if there is a minimum visibility of 4.5 meters. We recommend wearing at least a 7 mm wetsuit, along with boots and gloves.
You should be in reasonably good health and have the recommended vaccinations or be up to date before arriving in South Africa. The Sardine Run is an active adventure and can be physically challenging. Although it is not required that you be physically fit, the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the adventure.
