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Watch Great White Sharks Leap onto Seal Island in Cape Town
Published by Mona Rae, Writer
Country: South Africa 
The Experience
The ocean off the coast of Cape Town is rich with marine life. Whales, sharks, dolphins and seals swim off the Cape Town coastline frequently, and they are spotted by visitors several times a day. From a boat you can actually view some of the most incredible feats of nature, including the birth of baby seals, and the perilous hunt that ensues.
One of the best times to visit Cape Town is when the South African fur seals give birth. Seal Island and Duiker Island are the main areas where the seals mate. Usually in other seasons, these seals bask on the rocks in the warm waters of the Atlantic. Seal birthing season is a time for seal predators to hunt without exerting too much effort on their side. Nearly 75,000 seals live on Seal Island, and the seal birthing season provides a perfect opportunity to watch the hunt.
Seals always give birth on the shore, but venture back in to the water to get food. This is the best time for other sea animals to hunt seals, including great white sharks. Cape Town is increasingly becoming popular for its sea life and its marine wealth. Watching seals being hunted from a shark cage is also becoming increasingly popular. You don’t even have to be a qualified diver to do it.
Seal Island is in False Bay, located about 16 km off the coast of Simon’s Town. This is the main feeding ground of the great white sharks as well. On the way to Seal Island you will catch several glimpses of these magnificent creatures during the seal birthing season. People are shocked to see sharks literally flying in the air in an attempt to catch a seal. Several people flock to see this event, so you have to book your boat trips well in advance. The same can be said for accommodations, be sure to book your hotel in Cape Town early to avoid disappointment.
The seal birthing season takes place for a period lasting just over a month. If you're staying in Cape Town for a longer period then you can go back to the sea repeatedly to try and catch a glimpse of great whites breaching. The boat rides usually include all meals for a full daytrip. Scuba diving at Seal Island during this time is not possible because seal birthing takes place in a rocky area. However, deep sea diving is encouraged. If you are brave enough then you can try it out, but it is essential to know how to swim with the sharks if you are venturing out. Watch without disturbing these animals or else you will likely be in danger. This can be the most intense experience you’ve ever had.
One of the best times to visit Cape Town is when the South African fur seals give birth. Seal Island and Duiker Island are the main areas where the seals mate. Usually in other seasons, these seals bask on the rocks in the warm waters of the Atlantic. Seal birthing season is a time for seal predators to hunt without exerting too much effort on their side. Nearly 75,000 seals live on Seal Island, and the seal birthing season provides a perfect opportunity to watch the hunt.
Seals always give birth on the shore, but venture back in to the water to get food. This is the best time for other sea animals to hunt seals, including great white sharks. Cape Town is increasingly becoming popular for its sea life and its marine wealth. Watching seals being hunted from a shark cage is also becoming increasingly popular. You don’t even have to be a qualified diver to do it.
Seal Island is in False Bay, located about 16 km off the coast of Simon’s Town. This is the main feeding ground of the great white sharks as well. On the way to Seal Island you will catch several glimpses of these magnificent creatures during the seal birthing season. People are shocked to see sharks literally flying in the air in an attempt to catch a seal. Several people flock to see this event, so you have to book your boat trips well in advance. The same can be said for accommodations, be sure to book your hotel in Cape Town early to avoid disappointment.
The seal birthing season takes place for a period lasting just over a month. If you're staying in Cape Town for a longer period then you can go back to the sea repeatedly to try and catch a glimpse of great whites breaching. The boat rides usually include all meals for a full daytrip. Scuba diving at Seal Island during this time is not possible because seal birthing takes place in a rocky area. However, deep sea diving is encouraged. If you are brave enough then you can try it out, but it is essential to know how to swim with the sharks if you are venturing out. Watch without disturbing these animals or else you will likely be in danger. This can be the most intense experience you’ve ever had.
When to Go to Seal Island
The best time to take a Seal Island tour is in November and December. The weather is warm and sunny, and you can enjoy all the highlights of the seal birthing season.
Odds n' Ends
You need not carry any special clothing as normal beach wear and cottons will work. However, you should definitely carry are camera (inc. underwater camera), binoculars, and swimming or diving equipment.
Places to Eat
Recommended Places to Stay
- Cape Town Lodge Hotel
- Located in the centre of Cape Town, this hotel features modern rooms and a rooftop pool with views of Table Mountain. Cape Town Lodge has an award-winning restaurant and 2 bars.
- The Fairways on the Bay
- Located directly on the beach front, in one of Cape Towns trendiest suburbs, Fairways on the Bay offers you the best in location and enjoyment.
Additional Places to Stay Nearby
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While You're There - Tours and Trips Nearby
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