The Sardine Run is one of nature’s most magnificent spectacles and at the top of the bucket list for many SCUBA divers, worldwide. This incredible migration involves hundreds of millions of small silvery sardines making their way from the cold southern oceans toward the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean. Hundreds of sparkling swirling shoals form just off South Africas eastern coastline and move north with the warm Mozambican current.
The super shoal of sardines is a phenomenon in itself with individual shoals stretching for over a thousand kilometres out to sea. But of course where there are millions of sardines there are thousands upon thousands of hungry predators making the most of this moving buffet. It is this spectacle that really makes for exciting diving and viewing. Dolphins, sharks, whales, seals and swarms of hungry gannets all take part in this awesome natural event.
This is the largest ocean spectacle on earth and you cannot miss your chance at grabbing front row seats of this feeding frenzy. This seven day itinerary will put right in the action with some of the most experienced and passionate people in the business.
Clients will get picked up from the Durban International Airport and driven to Mboyti River Lodge. The drive is about 4 hours from Durban to the lodge. After dinner you will discuss the next day’s plan with your skipper and Micro Light Pilot. Usually they will have a good idea of where and what the action has been and will make a few recommendations to choose from.
Below is rough idea of what your days will be like. However we are able to tailor everything to your needs!
BREAKFAST:
06H30 The group can decide whether to have breakfast at the lodge first and take a packed lunch or launch early and take a packed breakfast and be back at the lodge for a late lunch. Whatever suits the group or the Sardine action trend.
LAUNCH:
Approx 06H30 to 07H30 (depending on light and breakfast ) The boats, one 8m rib, and one 8m cat, will be packed on the beach with your equipment waiting for the group to launch. The launch is a beachlaunch and can be the most thrilling introductions to the action awaiting you in the deep.
THE ACTION:
Approx 07H30 to 12H30 (depending on petrol and weather). Usually the Micro Light, already in the air, will be advising us as to what’s happening on the water within a 20km radius of Mboyti. Once the action has been found it’s all stations go. You may prefer to enter the water with mask and snorkel or with scuba gear. The action is usually fast and furious requiring you to jump in and out of the boat many times. You will welcome the exercise with all the food the lodge is feeding you. After an action filled day at sea, those more adventurous would want to enjoy the countryside by various means such as…
MICRO LIGHT FLIPS:
Take a ride in the Micro Light and see the action and the coastline from a different perspective.
AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES:
These are various activities that are offered at Mbotyi River Lodge and are available to all clients that would like to do something in the afternoon instead of relaxing.
Walks
The walks are all graded from professional hiking to the casual and there are experienced guides who will show you the way safely.
Drives
In the area there are 3 amazing waterfalls and gorges to be explored.
Magwa Falls – This is a seismic split in the earth that goes straight down for approx 100m spectacular, approx 10-minutes drive.
Frazer Falls – These have been caused by the traditional erosion method. Although not as spectacular as Magwa Fall the Gorge that follows is truly awesome plunging some 100m into some of the most unspoilt indigenous forest left on this coastline.
DINNER:
This is normally a 3 course meal with fresh oysters served at the bar once a week as appetizers and a full seafood extravaganza once a week as well.
DISCUSSION AND DRINKS:
After dinner the day’s activities and the next days plans are discussed with your skipper and the Micro light pilot, plans are made and we all enjoy a cold beer
– Approx 07H00 – Breakfast is served for the last time. We all say our farewells and the guests pack to leave, after a memorable vacation.
LENGTH OF STAY – 6 nights 5 days at sea. Leave on the 7th day.
GROUP SIZE – Min 6 – Max 8
DIVING PER DAY – 5 hours
