White Shark Projects is a world-leading organisation that focusses on the conservation of great white sharks through responsible tourism and research. They are involved in film, conservation, education, diving and viewing.
They offer:
- White shark diving and viewing;
- A DVD with your day with the sharks;
- Team-building and conferencing;
- Incentives, group bookings and charters;
- Transport via road/air to and from ‘White Shark Lodge‘ where guests will be served a delicious breakfast and beverages;
- A film department with an extensive library; and
- Various educational and socio-economical community initiatives.
Their boat, Shark Team, is a 11m 4ton custom-built white shark dive catamaran. She can carry 30 passengers, but they never take more than 18 guests plus crew to ensure a comfortable trip to their clients. The company complies with strict regulations laid down by Marine and Coastal Management and local governing authorities. They carry comprehensive public insurance and passenger liability. All safety equipment, first-aid and life raft are on board.
A range of trade-marked caps, underwater cameras and clothing are available on sale at the White Shark Lodge.
How the business started:
White Shark Projects has been established in 1989 mainly for the purpose of research on the Great White Shark. In 1991, White Shark Projects was instrumental in getting the great white shark protected under South African law. At the time, the white shark population was on the verge of extinction. As a result, we can enjoy the presence of this magnificent animal in South African waters today.
White Shark Projects work in an unique marine reserve in the heart of white shark Mecca. The area includes Dyer Island, home to 20 000 African jackass penquins, and Geyser Rock, where 60 000 Cape-fur seals live. In season, Southern Right Whales abound.
White Shark Projects cc are owned by three South African females and have a total of 21 employees. Offices are situated at the Waterfront (Cape Town) and in Kleinbaai.
Through the White Shark Projects Volunteer Programme their volunteers (from all over the globe) and locals are introduced to a diffrent and enriching cultural experience. This is achieved through their involvement in our community and research projects as outlined in our ‘Responsible Tourism Policy‘. On the Volunteer Programe students learn about great white shark biology, research, behaviour, conservation and shark tourism. This knowledge they can apply to further conservation in many and varied ways.
White Shark Projects works in partnership with the Great White Shark Protection Foundation of South Africa and the SA Shark Conservancy. They are registered members of the South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA), Cape Town Tourism, Cape Town Information Centre, Gansbaai Tourism Bureau and SKAL International. White Shark Projects and its responsible tourism operation was recognised in 2004 when they received the International Ecotourism Award from SKAL International. They have also been shortlisted for the World Travel Awards in 2008 and has been a category winner in the Imvelo Responsible Tourism Awards.
Their contribution to responsible tourism:
White Sharks Projects co-ordinates service delivery, conservation, education and research around on of the ocean’s greatly predatory forces. They aim to work in harnomy with the natural and social environment. The expectations of clients are met with excellent customer service, good value and operational efficiency. The crew and staff are distinguished by their functional and technical expertise combined with hands-on experience – ensuring their clients effective and professional service.
