SCUBA DIVING WITH COW SHARKS IN CAPE TOWN - INTRODUCTION

Why sit in a cage and see sharks through metal bars if you can swim next to them near Cape Town?

Don’t worry; the sharks in question are usually not aggressive. Cow sharks, (sometimes referred to as the Seven Gill Cow Shark, or the Spotted Cow Shark) are one of the most primitive shark species in the world. They are also one of only two species that have 7 gills and their sizes range from about 1.4 to 3.5 meters. It is interesting to note that they do not possess the dorsal fin that is most commonly associated with sharks.

They are generally very inquisitive fish and have been known to rub up against scuba divers as they glide by. They are usually not aggressive towards divers, and are normally quite sluggish – but, as with all creatures in the ocean, they should not be teased or provoked.

This scuba experience takes place in the kelp forests near Simonstown in the Cape, where we go in search of our colony of cow sharks.  They are social feeders and group together which makes for an excellent experience. As much as 18 individuals have been seen together at a time.

When we go scuba diving with Cow Sharks the channel that we dive in is about 12 meters deep. This makes for a truly unique experience, as Cape Town is one of the few spots in the world where you can scuba dive with them in such shallow water. 

As they swim up and down the channel you will have ample opportunity for photos and by the end of the scuba dive you should be able to identify individuals by their colour, bite marks and other features.

There are also some other things to see on this dive near Cape Town. The dive happens in a kelp forest with abundant life – it is quite common to see the endangered Red Roman here, octopus, jelly fish, Pajama Sharks etc – the list if virtually endless! We occasionally also spot the short tail Sting.

Cow Shark Scuba dive facts

Gallery

Team Work Cow sharks fins Cow Sharks Pyramid Rock Color of cow Shark. Spotting Cow Sharks Birth Period 7 Gills 7 Gill cow shark Shy Sharks Shy Sharks Length of cow sharks Cow Sharks Teeth Cow Shark Cow Sharks Diet Cow Sharks Cow Sharks scuba dive with cow sharks020 scuba dive with cow sharks023 scuba dive with cow sharks021 scuba dive with cow sharks026 scuba dive with cow sharks024 scuba dive with cow sharks022 scuba dive with cow sharks029 scuba dive with cow sharks027 scuba dive with cow sharks030 scuba dive with cow sharks028 scuba dive with cow sharks031 scuba dive with cow sharks025 scuba dive with cow sharks034 scuba dive with cow sharks033 scuba dive with cow sharks036 scuba dive with cow sharks032 scuba dive with cow sharks035 scuba dive with cow sharks037

What have others said about Into the Blue Scuba Dive Center?

kevinwF566NQ

Couldn't ask for a better experience - Did an open water scuba dive course and had such an incredible...
time. Everyone there is so friendly and super professional. You can really see how passionate they all are about diving, and giving others the chance to experience what they do everyday.
As an amputee, I was a little apprehensive about what I was getting myself into, but someone was always there to lend a hand (or a foot) when I needed it. Can't imagine there's a better team to dive with.
Will be back for many more fun dives!

Amy Musto

Had the best diving experience with Into the Blue, first...

dive was a ship wreck followed by doing yoga moves with the seals. Would highly recommend diving with these guys, very professional and fun! I sadly lost my go pro whilst diving with the seals but I'll always have the memories!

Chad Faurie

Always good to dive with...

people who are professional and know what they are doing