Extension of our section ‘Cast Off’ present in the magazine since issue 1, the Destinations section of the website lets you discover stays, circuits, safaris, and expeditions offered by diving and apnea professionals.At the beginning of February, sardines have started to gather in the south of South Africa: the season to witness their famous migration begins, reaching its peak from mid-June to mid-July south of Durban, on the east coast of the country.
Once again this year, the tour operator Abyssworld organizes one of its famous ‘expeditions’ to experience this amazing adventure. Whether it is South Africa with its enchanting energy and breathtaking landscapes, or diving with the observation of sardine ball predation by sharks, dolphins, and Cape gannets, not to mention the migration of humpback whales, everything in this expedition is exceptional.
A typical day
7:30am : launch of the semi-rigid boat and boarding.8:00am to 1:00pm : between 3 and 5 hours at sea depending on the intensity of actions, with navigation and diving entries and/or snorkel (fins mask snorkel) alternately. The day at sea goes by quickly between surface observations of dolphins, humpback whales, and Cape gannets that indicate sardine balls by plunging into the water, the diving entries, and picnic breaks.1:00pm to 2:00pm : return to the lodge, hot shower, and hot meal. Over the 7 days, 4 land excursions are planned as well as an ultralight flight included in the trip.7:00pm: aperitif and sharing the day’s emotions.8:00pm : dinner around the restaurant’s fireplace.In practice
Stay dates : from June 25 to July 6, 2016.Minimum required level : PADI Advanced or N2 and 100 dives minimum at sea or non-diver in snorkel. Dive mirror and parachute are mandatory.Organization of sea trips : privatization of a semi-rigid boat including 1 pilot, 2 supervisors for 8 divers. An ultralight departs in the morning (weather permitting) to spot sardine schools.Time difference : +1h in winter.Formalities : Passport valid 1 month after return date. Visa required (free and issued on site).Accommodation : Mbotyi River Lodge in Pondoland.Rates : €4685 including taxes instead of €4885 per person in double room for 10 days / 09 nights (flights included – subject to availability and airfares).
Minimum participants: 8 – Maximum: 9.
For more information on the stay and rates, contact Abyssworld : +41 (0)22 733 00 08 – Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 12:30pm and from 1:30pm to 6:00pm.
