The Sardine Run
The Sardine Run otherwise known as the greatest shoal on earth! We can only describe The Sardine Run as the best natural event we have ever witnessed, and we have witnessed some pretty amazing things underwater. The Sardine Run happens when a band of cold water gets pushed up the coast by changing weather patterns. This band funnels massive shoals of sardines up the East coast of South Africa towards hungry predators waiting.
The Sardine Run action normally starts around Port Elizabeth and East London before reaching the Wild Coast. Port st Johns is located on the hot spot of this migration route. Common Dolphins, Bottle nose Dolphins, Cape Gannots, Brudus whales, Humpback whales, Dusky sharks, Copper sharks, Bull sharks, Black tip sharks, Ragged tooth sharks, Cape fur seals, even Sail fish can be seen in this area at this time.
Our main goal is to find baitballs, but it does not go off everyday. On slow baitball days, we still encounter dolphins, Humpback whales and sharks. This makes it the ultimate Ocean Safari. The Sardine Run is unpredictable, weather is unpredictable – but the payoff is very rewarding.
LOCATION: PORT ST JOHNS, SOUTH AFRICA.
Expedition dates for 2026:
- 1st Expedition – 10 June – 20 June 2026 (9 days/10 nights)
- 2nd Expedition – 20 June – 30 June 2026 (9 days/10 nights)
- 3rd Expedition – 10 June – 10 July 2026 (9 days/10 nights)
- 4th Expedition – 10 July – 20 July 2026 (9 days/10 nights)
- 5th Expedition – 20 July – 30 July 2026 (9 days/10 nights)
*Please note that above information is a guideline and can vary depending on shark behaviour or environmental conditions.
R552 000 for private charter. Min 5 divers and Max 8+1 guide.
R486 000 for a VIP charter. Max 4 divers OR
R121 500 p/p for VIP charter 4 divers
*Rates are subject to change
Image Gallery
