SEAS4LIFE’S NEW ITINERARY TAKES YOU INTO THE HEART OF THE SENSATIONAL SARDINE RUN
Seas4Life, the leading experts in oceanic conservation and one-of-a-kind exceptional encounters, has curated an epic adventure to experience one of the world’s most rare and extraordinary natural events, named the Sardine Run. In their billions, these mini yet mighty fish migrate annually along South Africa’s coastline, attracting their mortal enemies to swoop down from the sky or rise from the sea in an explosive display of energy, movement and survival. This phenomenal immersive adventure from Seas4Life runs for a few short weeks between May 20th and June 20th, 2025.
This spectacular flurry of action is where epic predators meet prey, an unmissable glimpse of the natural world in action, an experience to capture the imagination and thrill the senses. Majestic humpback whales starting their annual migration north, mega pods of dolphins, feeding gannets, and hungry sharks are all among the marine life you will encounter on this year’s Sardine Run. Seas4Life, the leading operator for outstanding ocean experiences and conservation of the marine environment, offers a front-row seat to this circle of life, guided by a team of seasoned scientists, local experts and specialists and supported by a premier boating and diving company. Together, they bring their important work and valuable knowledge to life, setting Seas4Life apart from the rest by going so much deeper!
Designed for snorkellers ready to explore beneath the surface of the temperate waters, this is a true safari with all the marine wildlife on view in a feeding frenzy of unmatched proportions. Thousands of common dolphin charge after the shoals, watched from high by the cape gannets, which launch a massive aerial assault on the sardines. They are also easy pickings for bronze whaler sharks, dusky and black tip sharks, and waiting seals.
- One of Nature’s Most Exclusive Shows: This event only occurs under perfect environmental conditions, making it unpredictable and utterly thrilling. It is an exceptional privilege to witness the Sardine Run firsthand.
- The Ocean Safari of a Lifetime: Unlike any land-based safari, the Sardine Run puts you at the heart of the action, where every moment is awe-inspiring.
- Seas4Life transforms this incredible journey into a luxury adventure that blends unparalleled comfort, expert guidance and intimate access on nature’s grandest stage.
- Access Like No Other: Guided by Julie Church, founder and CEO of Seas4Life Safaris, an ocean-travel trailblazer with more than 25 years’ experience in marine science, and Nico Booyens, a renowned shark biologist, alongside a team of seasoned marine experts, you’ll gain insights into marine ecosystems that elevate this journey into a deeper understanding of the sea.
- Exclusive Experiences: From its private 8m dive boat designed for comfort and safety to personalised itineraries, Ses4Life ensure your adventure is tailored and unique to you.
- Unforgettable Marine Encounters: Dive into the blue wilderness as dolphins herd sardines into shimmering ‘bait balls’, sharks cut through the water, and gannets divebomb from the sky. Witness the annual humpback whale migration and the elusive mola mola, the world’s largest bony fish.
The 10-night itinerary is created for small group sizes of up to eight guests, and every interaction with Seas4Life is personalised, from the dive boat to the dinner table.
The Sardine Run Itinerary
Days 1 – 5: Ocean Safari
Arrive in Port Alfred, South Africa, and transfer to Sandcastle. Meet marine expert Julie Church and the team for a briefing on the sardine run, marine life, and in-water protocols. Gear check follows dinner.
Each morning begins at 6 AM to catch the first pods of dolphins rounding up sardines. After breakfast, board a fully licensed 26ft semi-rigid dive boat equipped for up to 40 nautical miles offshore. Spend up to five hours at sea tracking dolphins, gannets, seals, sunfish, and vast sardine shoals. Afternoons are for relaxation—spa treatments, bush or beach walks, and reviewing the day’s footage. Evening presentations by marine biologist Nico delve into the region’s sharks, whales, and seabirds, followed by sundowners, seafood braais, and gourmet dinners.
Days 6 – 11: Safari & Coastal Retreat
Extend the adventure with two nights at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, staying at Melton Manor, a stylish safari villa. Track rhino, elephant, and buffalo on foot, enjoy game drives, and unwind by the pool.
Continue to Simon’s Town for three nights at Whalesong, a private villa with panoramic ocean views. Explore a secret beach, snorkel in a windmill pool, hike Table Mountain, or watch whales from your terrace. Discover local restaurants, antique shops, and the nearby yacht club.
This exceptional itinerary from Seas4Life blends ocean adventure, wildlife encounters, and coastal luxury—ideal for UK travellers seeking an extraordinary South African experience. The Sardine Run offers visitors an incomparable gift of nature, transformative and uplifting. Make 2025 your year of adventure, learning and connection. Take a dive, be inspired, and go blue!
Availability for this Seas4Life expedition is extremely limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable tour, with an estimated starting price of $57,950 for a group of eight. While the accommodations are currently based on 8 people, nearby alternative options for smaller or larger groups can be explored.
Seas4Life caters to adventurous travellers who seek to immerse themselves in the beauty, serenity and vibrancy of the seas. Whether sailing along Mozambique’s coast, diving into the crystalline waters of the Maldives, or exploring hidden coves on private islands, its itineraries are personalised to meet your unique preferences and desires. Meaningful escapism is allied with a commitment to sustainability, with a portion of Seas4Life proceeds going into marine conservation efforts.
