When to go

Even though the Sardine Run can happen over a period of 6 months between May-October, SEAL only runs these expeditions in June and July each year to maximise the rate of success for clients.

The seasons in South Africa are the opposite of ours in Europe, so June/July are winter months on the Wild Coast and wet weather is possible (though not always the case).

At that time of year air temperature ranges from 15–24°C and water temperatures somewhere between 15-21°C.

Conditions will vary from glass-like seas to flying through giant rollers in pumping winds. Safety is always the priority when on the water and the SEAL skipper will navigate accordingly. Underwater visibility varies from 2–20m but as a safety precaution, they generally don’t enter the water in less than 5m of visibility.

Client Requirements

Advanced Diver Certification only – divers will be required to present their dive cards and log-books to SEAL upon arrival. This activity is for experienced scuba divers only.

The Sardine Run can be physically challenging and a basic fitness level is recommended though not essential. The fitter the participant the more enjoyment he/she will get of the experience.

A full medical is recommended for divers with pre-existing health conditions.

What to bring

Wind/rain proof active wear, smart casual wear, sun protection, headwear, sun glasses, binoculars and of course a camera. We strongly recommend divers bring their own dive gear rather than hiring on location. Having gear that you are familiar and comfortable with is important for this type of adventure diving.

Getting around

The SEAL Team will take care of all your transfer arrangements and excursions.

Getting there

There are daily flights on a number of international airlines to Durban via either Cape Town or Johannesburg. The flight from London to Johannesburg takes about 11 hours and you are looking at roughly another hour to Durban from there.

At Durban airport you will be met by the SEAL Expeditions Team and transferred by private bus to the Mbotyi River Lodge on the Pondoland Coast, which is a fascinating 4-hour drive through spectacular countryside and local villages.

Baggage allowance

20kg check-in luggage per person, but we are able to request 10kg extra luggage allowance for dive gear if required.

Entry requirements

British citizens require a valid passport, sufficient funds for the period of your stay and a return ticket.

Local airport tax

The international departure tax is  , payable at Durban airport upon departure

Time

South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Language

There are 11 official languages, including English. Most South Africans are multi-lingual and English is fairly widely spoken, in particular by anyone involved in South Africa’s tourism industry.

Money

Health

Recommended vaccinations for all travellers are Hepatis A and Typhoid and you should be up to date with Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chickenpox.

Malaria is found only in certain areas of South Africa; however the coastal regions and the area where the Sardine Run expeditions are launched are Malaria free. Take some insect repellent for the sunset hours with you.