I am inexplicably drawn to sharks. My interest and passion for these fascinating predators started more than 15 years ago with my first shark encounter while free diving for crayfish off the coast ofGansbaai. Since then I have spent the last 12 years focusing on great white sharks through underwater filming, free-diving, research and shark tourism. I even met my beautiful wife, a White shark scientist through our shared love of sharks. My passion for sharks continues to grow through each and every underwater experience and through Shark Explorers I want to share these experiences with you.
Unfortunately I have seen first hand how ignorance, greed and a lack of awareness has resulted in the decline of many of our local shark populations. One of the main reasons I started Shark Explorers is that I firmly believe that each one of us can make a difference. I believe that I can make a difference by showing people a positive experience with sharks. I don’t believe in misrepresenting them as potential killers for an adrenalin experience to sell tours. I do believe that sharks should be respected as the critically important predators they are.
Shark Explorers sets the standards and guidelines for responsible shark diving and interactions high. We provide a holistic experience which includes breaking down sensationalistic, adrenaline-hyped advertising, treating sharks with respect, reducing the impact we have on them and their environment, educating divers about their behavior and the threats they face. Most importantly I want to show you the sheer beauty of these fascinating sharks and give you an experience you won’t forget.
Morne is an acclaimed diver, shark conservationist and award winning underwater cameraman. He is a qualified PADI Divemaster, a Department of Manpower trained commercial diving supervisor, a SAMSA qualified boat skipper, STCW95 certified and is trained in medic first aid (Level III).
Morne has been working with White Sharks since 1999. He started in the White shark cage dive tourism industry, before getting involved in research and underwater filming for documentaries. Underwater filming has been a special passion and documentaries he has worked on include:
In each, his passion and unique relationship with sharks shines through. A highlight in his career is winning the 2008 Award of Excellence from the Guild of Television Cameraman for his breathtaking great white shark sequences in the film “SHARKMAN”. Still photography is a hobby and his photographs have appeared on the front pages of leading newspapers, magazines and marine books.
Morne believes it’s his unusual insight into shark behaviour that gives him an edge.
