SOUTH AFRICA : GREAT WHITE Shark

Volunteers needed for great White shark research program

This four to six week program requires volunteers throughout the year except major holidays. Apart from a level of fitness no experience is required as training is included along with accommodation and up to two meals per day.

South Africa was the first country to protect Great White Sharks. Due to a combination of myth and incorrect films plus dramatic media coverage many see the Great White as a killer that needs to be removed from the oceans.

This program is designed to separate fiction from fact by increasing our knowledge of these amazing creatures.

ALL Training included - BOAT HANDLINg, underwater photography too!

On arrival in Gansbaai, the shark capital of the world, you will receive your Welcome and Safety briefings.

During your time on this program you will learn about the breeding patterns of Great Whites, how they hunt and their preferred techniques, as well as their migration patterns. For example one tagged female - called Nicole, within a three month period was tracked from Cape Town to Perth - Australia and back again!

You will also receive training in Introduction to Marine and Underwater Photography. Plus introduction to Seamanship and also boat handling skills too.

Learn about the Great White shark

When a Great White is born it is immediately abandoned by its mother so it has to learn to survive on its own. This ensures only the fittest survive, but they become solitary and nomadic creatures.

Great White Sharks are found in the Caribbean, California and more recently in the Mediterranean Sea too. Due to the increase in water sports and in particular none powered water sports, man is increasingly encroaching into the Great white operating areas.

You will primarily join cage diving operations to study these predators as well as undertaking research studies. Strictly monitored paying tourists are vital to help fund work in this area and thus you will have the opportunity to share your knowledge and help spread the word and correct the negative public perception of this primary predators.

Where will I stay

You will live in the nearby accommodation house. The project leader also lives in the building for additional security.

On cage diving and research days breakfast is provided. While lunch is also provided when on the boat. this leaves you free on none working days. Food can either be purchased from local shops to cook in the house alternatively you can explore what the town has to offer.

However as this is South Africa and the home of the "braai" - you will most probably experience a bbq at the house while you are here!

SHARK RESEACH ADVENTURE INCLUDES:

When get your Booking Form, we will call to discuss any questions you may have. STA will also call you to discuss your flight options. You then receive briefing packs including medical, kit, FCO advice, country history and project information. You will also be invited to your briefing day in Central London. We will fully prepare you before you go.

Airport Pick up and Briefing. Accommodation in the volunteer house including up to 2 meals per day - on working days only. As this is not a group expedition it suits more independent or experienced travelers. Marine Training - including breading, feeding and hunting of Great White. Underwater photography. Seamanship. Extra cost option to Mountain Bike down table Mountain. Assistance with booking other tours for your weekends off. Airport drop off. Emergency back up.

London Reunion party.

Price : 4 weeks - £1,450 $2,700

Dates : Orientation and briefing sessions take place on the first Monday of each month. We recommend volunteers arrive the day before. More flexible dates can be arranged if necessary.

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CAN I STAY LONGER ?

Yes. Cape Town is a great place to stay. Having been under the water why not go above the clouds on Table Mountain - and then bike down it!

What ever activity you want Cape Town has it - then when it is all over, relax on one of the old style balcony bars overlooking Long Street!

Extension

After your time in Cape Town, why not join an overland experience into Africa. Head up and join are Maasai Project and receive the free Greenforce Travel Pack and 10% discount off the Maasai program.

See our Overland Africa page for details.