Sardine Run, Port StJohns - Jewel of the Wild Coast
The Sardine Run in Port StJohns is a magical experience. Port StJohns is a picturesque coastal town in South Africa and is known as the "Jewel of the Wild Coast". The wild coast is a stretch of 250 kilometers that got its name from its inaccessibility and reputation for being demanding for boats and with big waves. Today, the Wild Coast remains relatively untouched and offers adventure and unique beauty for the Sardine Run experience.
Sardine Run Experience
The Sardine Run is more about the migration of various predators that move along the South African coast in search of the sardines, rather than the sardines themselves. It involves encounters with humpback whales, thousands of dolphins and sightings of seals attacking from above and shooting through the water. It's also about the crew and other divers who share this experience with you – you spend hours at sea together enjoying this rare and life-changing adventure.
Always be ready
It's easier to get on and off the boat quickly with snorkel gear because the skipper has to keep moving the boat to stay where the action is. One can come across Sardine Run action completely unexpectedly. The crew will do their best to maneuver the boat and anticipate the marine animal activity so it is important to be ready to jump in the water at a moment's notice. If luck is on your side, you will experience the trek at its peak. It is also beneficial to have some freediving experience.
All pictures with © approval from Pro Dive, South Africa
Accommodation and program
Accommodation
Nestled between towering cliffs, N'taba River Lodge is set in stunning tropical gardens on the banks of the Umzimvubu River. It is one of the most scenic resorts in the area. The convenience of this location is that you board and disembark the boat right outside the door and no special transfer is required. N'taba is a 4-star lodge and offers the finest blend of Wild Coast hospitality and comfort with hot showers in most rooms and an on-site restaurant.
Program
Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Port St Johns. Check into the hotel for 6 nights. Meeting in the early evening for a full expedition orientation and to meet the crew.
Day 2 – 6: Spend the whole day out at sea looking for
Sardine Run action.
06h: 00: Breakfast
06H: 45: Meeting at the launch site and pack the boat (8m semi-rigid RIB).
07h00 – 15h00: Ocean Safari. Refreshments and lunch are provided on the boat. Return to the hotel at approximately 15.00:XNUMX PM relax, download photos and enjoy dinner at the resort
Day 7: Check-out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home or further adventures.
NOTE: Please ask if you would like to extend your package with additional Sardine Run days, Cape Town's Great White Shark Diving, Aliwal Shoal Diving or a visit to Kruger National Park
These programs are only offered from June to July due to limited time for the event.
What is included in this travel program?
- 6 nights' accommodation in a standard suite
- Daily breakfast
- Packed lunch during diving days
- 5 days at sea (weather permitting)
- 8m RIB dive boat (SAMSA Licensiered for 40 miles offshore)
- Rental of tanks and weights
- Air filling
- Experienced skipper and guide
- Permission to film
The tour does not include:
- Flights (recommended flight is to Mtatha Airport – only 2 hours from Port St Johns)
- Airport transfers - arranged on request (Mtatha, Durban or East London)
- Dinners and drinks
- Equipment rental
- Travel and diving insurance
- Additional activities and sightseeing
Standard suites
Standard rooms are independent cabins. Each cabin has 2 separate bedrooms with a door between the rooms. These rooms can be used as two separate rooms or the door can be opened for couples with older children. Each room has its own bathroom with shower only. The rooms face a spacious patio overlooking the river.
Included are, safety deposit box air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, fridge (filled on request), hair dryer, en-suite bathroom, plasma TV, guest amenities (showers, soap, body lotion etc.)
Superior suites
Superior rooms accommodate a maximum of 2 guests and offer a king-size bed, an in-room lounge area, a separate walk-in shower, bathtub and sink. Included is, safe, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, fridge (filled on request), hairdryer, bathroom, plasma TV, guest amenities (shower soap, body lotion etc.)