Cape Town False Bay: Shark Diving Trip & Family-Friendly Guide

Summary

Shark encounters in False Bay with easy family access

You’ll feel both nerves and awe as you suit up in Simonstown for a guided shark diving trip in False Bay. With gear provided and snacks on board, your family will watch Great white sharks glide past—and laugh together over stories from your local guide. It’s not just about seeing sharks; it’s sharing an experience that lingers long after you’re dry again.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s actually like to look a shark in the eye? I did, but I wasn’t sure I’d go through with it until we pulled up to Simonstown that morning. The air had that salty chill you only get near the ocean, and I could smell sunscreen and coffee from other early risers. Our guide, Mark, was already waiting by the dock—he had this calm way about him, like he’d seen every kind of weather out here. He handed out wetsuits and cracked a joke about how clumsy everyone looks putting them on (he wasn’t wrong). I liked that there was no pressure—just quiet excitement and a bit of nervous laughter from the group.

The boat ride out into False Bay took maybe 30 minutes, but honestly, time felt weirdly slow. You could see Table Mountain fading behind us and then nothing but water and sky ahead. Mark started telling us about the sharks—Great whites, bronze whalers, even these old-looking Sevengill sharks that have been around forever. He pointed out a seal bobbing nearby and said sometimes they’re braver than we are. The engine noise faded as we stopped, and suddenly it was just waves slapping against the hull and gulls circling overhead. There was this moment when I realized my hands were shaking—not from cold but from anticipation.

I didn’t expect how clear everything would feel underwater—the way sunlight cut through, or how you could actually see the texture of a shark’s skin as it cruised by. It’s not scary like you think; it’s more… humbling? At one point a kid next to me asked if sharks ever smile (Mark just grinned and said “maybe on their birthday”). Afterward, back on deck wrapped in fresh towels with snacks passed around, everyone seemed lighter somehow—like we’d all shared something big without needing to say much about it.

Even now I catch myself thinking about those shapes moving below us—how different real sharks are from what you imagine. If you’re anywhere near Cape Town and want a day trip that’ll stick with you (and yes, includes pickup if you need), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shark exploration trip in False Bay

• Arrive at 62st Georges Street Simonstown
• Wear swimwear under clothing
• Bring sunglasses, sunblock, warm jacket
• Use provided wetsuits and towels
• Enjoy 4-hour shark viewing trip
• See Great white, Bronze whaler, Sevengill sharks
• Use hookah system during dive
• Freshen up with warm showers after dive

Top questions

How long does the shark diving trip in False Bay last?

The trip lasts around 4 hours from meeting point to return.

Is this shark dive suitable for kids or beginners?

Yes, there are no age restrictions or experience needed for this tour.

Where is the meeting point for the tour?

The meeting point is 62 St Georges Street in Simonstown.

What should I bring for the shark diving excursion?

You should bring sunglasses, sunblock, a warm jacket, dry clothes, swimwear under clothing on arrival, and a camera.

Are wetsuits and towels provided on this tour?

Yes, wetsuits and fresh towels are included for all participants.

Which shark species might we see during the dive?

You may encounter Great white sharks, Bronze whaler sharks, and Sevengill sharks.

Does the tour include snacks or drinks?

Soda/pop and snacks are included during your time on board.

Is public transportation available to reach Simonstown?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day covers everything: guided dive with all gear included (wetsuit too), plus catering with snacks and drinks onboard. After your time in False Bay waters watching sharks up close alongside your local guide, you’ll have fresh towels waiting—and even warm showers before heading home if you want them.