
moderate
3–4 hours
Able to climb in and out of a boat, stand on a rocking deck, and manage short swims if snorkelling; generally suitable for most fitness levels.
Board a small, owner-operated boat in Simon’s Town and descend into the brine-scented world around Seal Island. This 3.5-hour experience balances close-up shark encounters with conservation-minded interpretation and optional scuba or snorkel options.
The boat slips from Simon's Town Wharf as a low sun pries color from False Bay. Salt folds across your face; the crew moves with a practiced calm, lowering steel into the water while you fasten a hood and watch the swell roll. The sea here feels alive—tugging, curious, sometimes indifferent—and it's the same stretch of water that has drawn seals, sharks and mariners for centuries.

Operators may cancel due to weather or low bookings—call the day before to avoid wasted travel time.
Take tablets an hour before boarding; False Bay can get choppy and prevention is more effective than cure.
A windproof outer layer plus a warm mid-layer keeps you comfortable on deck during early mornings.
Use a wrist strap or lanyard and ask crew for vantage tips—phones alone aren’t suitable for splashing decks.
Simon’s Town has been a strategic naval base since the 18th century; its harbor and lighthouse have guided vessels around False Bay’s rugged headlands for generations.
Operators here emphasize low-impact viewing and education—avoid tours that promise guaranteed baiting or close-contact manipulation of wildlife.
Blocks spray and keeps you warm on exposed decks.
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Helps prevent nausea on choppy False Bay crossings.
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Captures surface and boat-side action without risking your phone.
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Protect feet on wet decks and during short shoreline walks.
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