Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Highlights

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.

What will I achieve?

• A wonderful experience that will enhance your life as well as your CV.
• You will achieve a greater understanding for the Great White and how they have been so miss-understood all these years.
• You'll be given training in White Shark biology, research their behaviour and breeding habits. How their attitudes change depending on circumstance and environment. You will also learn about shark attacks and basic seamanship (includes anchoring positions and wind directions), underwater filming, still photography and shark tourism.

Where will I live?

• 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!

What's included?

When get your Booking Form, we will call to discuss any questions you may have. On receipt of your deposit you receive a username and password to access your own personal page where all the important information will be including medical, kit, 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 travellers.

-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.

Maps

Extra Info

• South Africa is bordered on the west by the Atlantic Ocean and on the east by the Indian Ocean. The waters meet at the country's most southern tip, Cape Agulhas, it is visibly clear by the large contrast of the colours of the waters.
• Size of the country: slightly less than twice the size of Texas
• Climate:  mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
• The rand is the currency of South Africa. It takes its name from the Witwatersrand (White-waters-ridge in English)
• The trip is open to all nationalities. We do recommend that you call the South African Embassy to check if you need a visa to enter the country.
• The minimum age for this trip is 17 years and there is no maximum. Expedition teams comprise of individuals from a diverse range of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone is welcome!!