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?

WorldClassSkate

“brilliant organisation and awesome diving!!!” Into the blue is a very well organised and professionally run dive shop...

I dived with Into the blue last week, and despite having an early meeting time was greeted by the staff with instant smiles and friendliness. Within 15 minutes the blond lady at reception had our whole groups paperwork sorted, gear packed, and introductions given.

There was a groupf of about 7 of us, and we all got to know eachother and the rest of the staff very well throughout the day. Everyone of the staff was friendly and happy to lend a helping hand, and they were very thorough and professional throughout the day.

The dive conditions didn't end up being so good, but the skipper GP was wise enough to call off the second dive for safety and we were sorted out back at the shop with rescheduling and refunds.

Very well done, and I would highly recommend for any divers visiting Cape town. I will be back to dive with Into the blue again!!!

Visited April 2017

Jayson De Ath

Super and very professional setup. Glad I was able to dive...

with them and would not only recommend diving here, but look forward to the next trip to dive with again.

Jacques Vermeulen

Best dive shop ever! People are friendly and helpful!...

Cape Town diving for the win!