Voluntary Work
As part of the White Shark fieldwork you will be taken to places around Dyer Island as well as other nearby shark locations. Dyer Island is also known as Shark Alley and is probably the best place around the globe to see Great Whites.
While you are out on the boat around Dyer Island there is also the chance to catch site of many other wildlife species. As it is the breeding ground for Cape Cormorants, Gannets and Jackass Penguins you are bound to spot them. Opposite you will find Geyser Rock, which is currently home to around 20,000 seals and it is the breeding area for Cape Fur Seals. In the right season Whales and Dolphins can also be seen. All in all a perfect environment for the Great White Shark!
As a volunteer you will work as part of the shark team and help in documenting shark activity by using aerial surveys of the island. This project gives you an exceptional opportunity to view this magnificent animal in its natural habitat. This will either be by boat or even more excitingly in an underwater cage.Your team will supply you with all the knowledge you need to know about the Great White through informative lectures and on the field training. Your lectures while on the programme consist of:
- Basic Shark biology
Conservation and research
- Shark behaviour
- Conservation
- Altering attitudes
- Shark Attacks
- Basic seamanship (inc: currents, wind directions, anchoring positions)
- Cage diving procedures (procedures in the cage with/without regulator)
- Underwater filming
- Stills photography
- Shark tourism
What’s Included in the Programme Price
- Airport pick up and transfer to Gansbaai
- Welcome and orientation by team leader
- All accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch and afternoon tea on days that you are out at sea
- Daily lectures
- Diving equipment (other than snorkel, goggles and flippers)
- Two volunteer t-shirts and cap
- Welcome pack
- White shark field book
What’s Not Included in the Programme Price
- Personal travel insurance for the duration of your placement, which should include cover
for repatriation
- All flights
- Evening meals
- Lunches at weekends and non sea days
- All items of a personal nature, such as curios, gifts, clothing (work and other)
- Snorkel, goggles and flippers
- Email/Internet and telephone calls
- Soft drinks, beer, wines and spirits
- Visas
- Any excursions over and above your planned itinerary
Prices & Durations
South Africa White Shark Conservation - 21 Days £1,399
