Sardine Run 2009
| Expedition Dates: | July 4, 2009 - July 10, 2009 |
| Destination: | South Africa |
| Cost: | $2,155 Sold Out |
Visible by satellite, the Sardine Run is a unique feat of natu
re and should be on every underwater photographer or videographer's lists. The largest sardine shoals on earth migrate up the east coast of South Africa in mind blowing numbers between May and July. The sheer numbers create a feeding frenzy among schools of dolphins, sharks, whales, game fish and birds.
re and should be on every underwater photographer or videographer's lists. The largest sardine shoals on earth migrate up the east coast of South Africa in mind blowing numbers between May and July. The sheer numbers create a feeding frenzy among schools of dolphins, sharks, whales, game fish and birds.
In terms of biomass, researchers estimate the sardine run could rival East Africa's great wildebeast migration. The shoals can be more than 7 km long, 1.5 km wide and 30 meters deep and are clearly visible from spotter 
planes or from the surface. We will be using a spotter plane to ensure that we get put into the heart of the action.
planes or from the surface. We will be using a spotter plane to ensure that we get put into the heart of the action.
We will be diving with African Water Sports,
one of the pioneers in diving Aliwal Shoal. We
will be staying at Mbotyi
Lodge, situated at the mouth of the Mbotyi River, a great lauching
point for all the action.
The Sardine Run is unpredictable. 2003 & 2006 were apparently the third and fourth years in 26 years where the sardines failed to "run" at all, 
while 2005 & 2007 were reported by many as great runs. Researchers think that the sardines fail to run when the water is above 21°C. We are scheduling our trip during the first half of July where the water temperature has the best chance of bringing a good run.
while 2005 & 2007 were reported by many as great runs. Researchers think that the sardines fail to run when the water is above 21°C. We are scheduling our trip during the first half of July where the water temperature has the best chance of bringing a good run.
Price: $2,155 *based on current exchange rates to the South African Rand. Final balance will be billed at exchange rates of final payment. (R19,980)
Price includes:
-
Full day on boat 07h00 to 14h00 (weather permitting)
-
2 meals per day and snacks on the boat
-
Accommodation (double occupancy)
-
A dedicated microlight pilot to put the group on the action with a VHF radio.
-
Air fills, cylinder and weight belt
Price does NOT include:
-
Transfer from Durban to Mboyti
- We can arrange a round trip transfer, costs approx $161 (R1500)
Additional Information:
-
Meeting Point
Durban Airport for those being transported or Mboyti River Lodge for the self drives. -
Duration of Stay
6 nights / 5 days at sea (departure on day 7) -
Group Size
6 to 8 people -
Time at sea
7 to 8 hours (weather dependent) -
Pace
Relaxed to strenuous depending on the action at hand.
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Antarctica
