Meet “Backgammon”
A Wanted Member of the Notorious Bull Shark Gang Led by Smiley, the Bull Shark Queen of South Africa! Backgammon was named because she has a bite mark shaped like a bean on her back, which reminded Jason Frewin of a Bull Shark he met on a reef nearby, named Backgammon, and she was a significant part of his early Shark Diving days! This young lady joined us & Smiley’s Gang in The ‘Bull Ring!’ In 2022 and since has become a prominent member of the gang, aspiring to follow in her leaders footsteps She’s cheeky, often seen mock changing our camera, but her bark is way louder than her bite!! But perhaps these maneuvers are just her way of flirting!! Will she return this new season after “Running the gauntlet” home and join the Shark Whisperer himself Walter Bernardis – our fearless leader – African Watersports Remember: “Without Blue there can be no Green” Aliwal Shoal, South AfricaThe Shark Diving Capital of the World! Deep Down, You Know We’re The Best #SharkDiving #TigerShark #padiPRO #SharkWhisperer #WalterBernardis #Dive #AliwalShoal #SouthAfrica
Sardine Run 2024
We’re thrilled to conclude ‘The Year of the Whale’ with African Watersports in Port St Johns! A huge thank you from our crew to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable Sardine Run experience. The whales stole the show this year, making it a truly unforgettable experience! Led by our #fearless leader, Walter Bernardis, we witnessed breathtaking bait ball action and got up close with an incredible array of ocean predators, including sharks dolphins, cape fur seals, sea birds, and so many whales all in the mix, from Humpbacks to Brydes and a good few Southern Right Whales, too! https://www.africanwatersports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Sardine-Run-2024-S.mp4 Don’t miss out on the action in 2025! Book your spot now, as spaces are limited and filling up fast! Visit our website: https://africanwatersports.co.za or email us at info@africanwatersports.co.za, for more information. Join the conversation: #SardineRun #AfricanWatersports #WalterBernardis #PortStJohns #YearOfTheWhale #SharkDiving #WhaleWatching #MarineLife #SardineMigration #Wildlife #Scuba #Safari #SouthAfrica Stay connected: https://linktr.ee/africanwatersports | https://wa.me/27825651210 We look forward to seeing you next year!
Bull Shark Frenzy
Diving into the Deep Blue! Diving with African Watersports in the Summer months in South Africa has been incredible! Dive into a thrilling underwater journey with our latest video. Get up close and personal with one of the most aggressive shark species, the bull shark, in their natural habitat. Witness the frenzy of bull sharks in their feeding zone, a spectacle that is both awe-inspiring and spine-chilling! Our underwater cinematography captures the majestic bull sharks in all their glory, as we explore the mysteries of the deep blue. If you’re fascinated by marine life, ocean exploration, and extreme sports, this is the video for you! Tap into your adventurous spirit and immerse yourself in the untamed power and beauty of the ocean depths. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more exciting deep-sea adventures! Dive with Us & our #Fearless Leader ~ Walter Bernardis ~ ‘The Original!’Aliwal Shoal || South Africa
Nudi’s on the Shoal!
Nudibranchs are a group of soft-bodied, marine gastropod mollusks known for their often striking and vibrant colors. They are often referred to as sea slugs and are found in oceans worldwide, including tropical and temperate waters. Nudibranchs are known for their diverse and fascinating forms, and many species are highly specialized and adapted to specific habitats. Aliwal Shoal, located off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including a variety of marine life such as sharks, rays, and numerous fish species. A large variety and the presence of nudibranchs on almost every dive, making this reef so diverse and unique! Chromodoris Goniobranchus Hypselodoris Special Thanks to the Team at The SharkWise Project for these Images! Nudibranchs, Guinea fowl moray eels, Pelagic gamefish, Rays, Sharks, Ragged tooth sharks, Dolphins, Whales, Tiger sharks, Bull Sharks all call the Aliwal HOME… As such, Diver etiquette is an essential aspect of responsible and respectful diving in our Marine Protected Area. When it comes to diving near nudibranchs or other marine life, it’s crucial to follow ethical guidelines to minimize your impact on the underwater environment. Here are some general tips for diver etiquette on the reef: 1. Maintain Buoyancy Control:Practice good buoyancy control to avoid accidentally touching or damaging the marine life, including small nudibranchs. Proper buoyancy helps you navigate without disturbing the environment. 2. Avoid Touching Marine Life:Resist the temptation to touch or handle nudibranchs or any other marine organisms. Many marine creatures, including nudibranchs, have delicate structures that can be easily damaged. 3. Keep a Safe Distance:Maintain a safe and respectful distance from the nudibranchs. Use your fins carefully to avoid stirring up sediment, which can settle on the animals and harm them. 4. Use a Pointer Stick:Consider using a pointer stick to guide your fellow divers’ attention to interesting marine life, including small nudibranchs, instead of pointing with your fingers. This minimizes the risk of accidental contact. 5. Stay Informed:Educate yourself about the marine life in the area where you are diving, including the behavior and habits of nudibranchs. Knowing more about the creatures you encounter helps you make informed decisions about how to interact with them responsibly. 6. Follow Local Guidelines:Be aware of and adhere to local diving regulations and guidelines. Some dive sites may have specific rules regarding interaction with marine life, and it’s crucial to respect and follow these guidelines. 7. Practice Responsible Photography:If you’re taking photos, be mindful of your equipment and the marine life around you. Avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals, and be cautious not to damage any part of the reef or environment. 8. Report Irresponsible Behavior:If you observe other divers engaging in harmful behavior, report it to the dive shop, boat crew, or relevant authorities. Encourage a culture of responsible diving within the diving community. Remember, the primary goal is to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world while minimizing your impact on the delicate marine ecosystems. By practicing responsible diver etiquette, you contribute to the preservation of these environments for future generations! Very little is know about the Nudis here, so share your photos and stories with us or for more info, check out the book ‘Nudibranchs & Sea Slugs of The Aliwal Shoal’ by Sellick/Gosliner/Van Heerden provides information about the nudibranchs and sea slugs found at Aliwal Shoal. Or you can get in touch & join the Sharkwise project for more!
The Greatest Shoal on Earth
The biggest bucket list adventure off land. Sardine Run by Tonya Khoury Welcome to the Sardine Run. The most extraordinary adventure on earth. Sharks, huge duskey sharks, bronze whalers, squadrons of dive-bombing gannets, and dolphin megapods. This is the Studio 54 of the underwater world: a cacophony of deafening sound; a metaphysically uproarious chaos, and tramps like us, baby we were born to run! Why would they call an off land event a “run”? Here’s the rub. The predators ‘run’ after those bait balls as if it were the chase they had prepared for their entire lives. The boats “run” to catch the action and the divers and snorkelers ‘run’ (underwater) to keep up. I had several fears for this trip: I’m old, I get cold (very cold), and I get sea-sick. I had a ton of excuses which would suffice to say no. But I have had this dream since time and memorial, and now at 50 I finally had the opportunity to drop my defenses and open up to a nudge in ribs from the Shark Man, Walter Bernadis, my extraordinary friend and fearless leader who is the owner and shark diving pioneer of African Watersports based in Umkomaas. Over a period of many years, I’ve watched Walter, usually in a centre of a ring of bull sharks where he seems most comfortable, do the most incredible things with these misunderstood creatures, while they circle curiously around him. The man who removes hooks, the tonic master. When I first started shark diving, I learnt to always listen to exactly what Walter said, and as a result, have always had the time of my life. So, naturally, when the time came, Walter was my only choice. I thought, I’ll be safe and just like with shark diving and I was right: Only dive / run with the best. Driving down to Port St Johns left me dumbstruck. I’ve always heard the Transkei was breathtaking and here I was between two large crags, the river cutting through unsullied land into the wild coast’s Indian Ocean. The most astonishing, untamed, untouched landscape with pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and lush forests. It is a region of exceptional natural beauty and there were moments when I wished I could stay just a little while longer to avoid the feeling of melancholy as I watched the beauty flash by. Everyone warned me about the launch, but I had no fear for that; I’d been with Walter and Top Man Thunzi before, and surfing waves with a boat is something they both make look easy. My biggest apprehension was the cold, and my goodness, I was right. I had a big ass jacket, literally three times too big for me so that I could curl up in it, two beanies, a neck scarf and gloves. Turns out I wasn’t the only one prepared for cold as one of our teammates, Lorenzo Pilati, came with two hot water bottles for his feet, I was envious, and he was generous, sharing his pink flamingo covered water bottle with all on board. And as we raced headlong into the sound and the fury I remembered Walter’s description of what was about to take place: “It is going to feel as if we are being lured into a gravitational tornado of movement from above and below”. On arrival we could see thousands of Cape Gannets diving and hitting the silver silhouette of the bait ball that spins below the surface, desperately trying to keep itself together as if a secret pact had been agreed upon, and dolphins putting on an aerial display, flying into the air, jumping and twirling. And then back into the fray; the fray that we were about to jump into. Everything including the cold disappeared when I was given my first “Go” and landed right next to a humpback whale that hung suspended in the water waiting for me to applaud it. I had to remind myself to breathe. The enormity of this creature was heart-stopping. It is indescribable, the feeling of being next to a mammal that weighs tonnes. You feel insignificant, and the thought of being swallowed, of disappearing for eternity, crossed my mind. Instead, with the smallest of eyes, a look of such deep intensity; a spiritual connection that is beyond belief … and words fail me. Colossal, yet so incredibly aware of the space it occupies. Several times humpbacks came so close that their pectoral fins almost touched us and one can only believe that they didn’t touch us deliberately. We were in the presence of something so great. I am told that not everyone sees what I saw on the run, and I still don’t feel like I saw enough. Below the surface the birds made my eyes wide. Once they hit the water, they resemble bombs; the speed cuts a trail behind them that is almost cartoonish as my mind translates their sunny air assault into picture bubbles under water. They gobble up sardines as they dive bomb, three or four at a time and they swim with their wings as if they’d been created as half bird /half fish. Then they bob up like a buoy line trapped under water. The sound of it alone reminds you that you are in Africa and this is truly the Wild Coast. The dolphins are juggling tasks, and there was not a day that wasn’t filled with dolphins singing and clicking as they corralled the sardines into a ball. Torpedoes in the water, dolphins are extraordinarily fast and, strangely enough, know exactly where you are and that you are not food. Often, they wink or smile as they go past and some even say there’s the occasional “teehee” amongst their calls. You’ll think I’m mad, but that’s the truth. I couldn’t believe there could be more to this experience, but the truth is, we had just begun. I spent nine days with the AWS crew and every day
Sardine Run 2023 – Witnessing Nature’s Greatest Spectacle
The Ocean becomes a stage for an intricate Dance of Life & Death, as predator and prey engage in a captivating battle for survival. The Sardine Run is an awe-inspiring event that draws nature enthusiasts, photographers, and marine biologists from all around the globe to witness a breathtaking display of marine life off the coast of South Africa. The Sardine Run, also known as the “Greatest Shoal on Earth,” is a phenomenon where millions of sardines migrate in shoals along the South African coastline, creating a feeding frenzy and attracting a plethora of marine predators. As we delve into this incredible event, join us on an unforgettable journey through the ocean depths to explore the wonders of the Sardine Run 2023. The Sardine Run Phenomenon: Every year, between May and July, the Sardine Run takes place along the eastern coast of South Africa. It is believed to be triggered by the cooling waters of the Benguela Current slipping in betweenthe land and the great Aghulas Current, which attracts massive schools of sardines from the Aghulas Banks The Arrival of the Sardines: The anticipation builds as the sardines approach the shores of the Transkei, the Wild Coast of South Africa. As they make their way closer to the coastline, they are often accompanied by other marine creatures, including dolphins, sharks, seals, and a variety of seabirds. These animals join the frenzy in pursuit of the abundant food source that the sardines provide. Diving into the Spectacle: Scuba divers and snorkelers eagerly plunge into the waters to witness the spectacular event up close. The sight of dolphins herding the sardines into tight balls, birds diving from the sky to snatch them from the water’s surface, and sharks patrolling the edges of the shoals is nothing short of breathtaking. The ocean becomes a stage for an intricate dance of life and death, as predator and prey engage in a captivating battle for survival. Conservation and Sustainability: While the Sardine Run is undoubtedly a magnificent display of nature’s wonders, it also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance within marine ecosystems. The sardine population plays a crucial role in the ocean food web, and their decline could have far-reaching consequences for various marine species. Conservation efforts are paramount to ensure the sustainability of this natural phenomenon for generations to come. The Ecotourism Impact: The Sardine Run has become a boon for ecotourism in the region. Responsible tour operators and marine biologists lead expeditions that prioritize the safety and well-being of marine life. By promoting responsible tourism practices, the local economy benefits while maintaining the sanctity of this unique event. Capturing the Sardine Run: Photographers and videographers find themselves in a paradise of visual riches during the Sardine Run. The high-octane action and stunning underwater scenes provide ample opportunities to capture once-in-a-lifetime shots. These images not only serve as mementos for the participants but also raise awareness about the beauty and fragility of the marine world. Conclusion: The Sardine Run 2023 has proven to be an awe-inspiring event, showcasing nature’s grand spectacle in all its glory. This incredible migration of millions of sardines, accompanied by a myriad of marine predators, serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness and diversity of life in our oceans. As we continue to explore and appreciate the wonders of the Sardine Run, let us also be mindful of our role as custodians of this precious ecosystem andwork towards preserving it for future generations to witness and cherish. So, if you ever get a chance to witness the Sardine Run, don’t hesitate! Bookings for 2024 with Walter Bernardis and African Watersports are now open! Dive into the depths of the ocean and let the marvels of this extraordinary event leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. Happy Hunting!
About Seascapes
Seascapes Cottage opens up onto a beautiful deck which is part of the main house, here you can chill have a braai and enjoy the view of the ocean and garden. There is a plunge pool on the deck and the main swimming pool in the garden area. The cottage has a small kitchen, lounge and dining area all open plan. We are within walking distance to a lovely beach for swimming and surfing and close to the small town of Umkoaas which has a few lovely resturants. Some packages include breakfast, while others are self catering. The space The Seascapes Cottage is on the Middle Floor of the Property. From the Braai area and plunge pool, the cottage opens up through a Glass Sliding Door into an open plan Lounge, Dinner Table and Kitchenette. Two Bedrooms are located nearer the balcony, one room has direct access to this. Just down a few steps and you find yourself in a large, subtropical garden and our Swimming Pool, as well as the other 4 Seascapes Rooms. Guest access We will supply you with a gate remote on arrival (to be returned pls).However the cottage has its own, private access to the entrance. We also have 4 other rooms available, and all our rooms offer a twin bed option! Other things to note We have 3 dogs. Benji, Belah and Loki. They are fantastic friends but better security guards 😃 They do, from time to time, come up to the Braai Area and try to visit the Cottage. They are well trained and listen to commands. If you cannot tolerate Dogs, please contact us or seek alternative accommodation.
The SharkWise Project
A fully immersive marine biology internship programme based in South Africa. The SharkWise Project Internship is based in Umkomaas, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa and is aimed at young students wanting hands-on experience in marine biology, focusing on shark research. The interns work with Masters and/or PhD students that are registered at Stellenbosch University. The interns assist with data collection for the postgraduate research. Our interns will be assisting with the current postgraduate research: Genetic sampling. Shark fin photo identification. Underwater photogrammetry. Reef biodiversity assessment. Interns are expected to have a passion for the natural world and have a hands-on attitude towards academic research. Current or prior studies in the natural sciences are preferred. Please forward your CV and a motivation letter to Walter walter@sharkwiseproject.com if you would like to join us and do not hesitate to ask should you have any questions! https://www.sharkwiseproject.com/ Academic DirectorDr Sara Andreotti Dr Sara Andreotti is a marine biologist specialising in shark research. She is a lecturer extraordinaire at Stellenbosch University Department of Botany and Zoology and co-founder of The SharkWise Project. She has been developing a management and conservation plan for great white sharks since 2009. Sara also co-founded SharkSafe Barriers (Pty) Ltd, to provide an eco-friendly and shark-specific technology to keep swimmers and surfers safe from large predatory sharks, without impacting the marine environment. She is one of the four co-inventors of the SharkSafe BarrierTM: a patented technology that successfully bio-mimics the visual effects of a thick kelp forest, combined with a shark-deterrent permanent magnetic field. Dive GuruWalter Bernardis Walter Bernardis is the founder and operator of African Watersports, an internationally renowned dive centre based in Umkomaas. Walter has been diving with large sharks for over 4 decades and has spent his life advocating for shark conservation and the preservation of all marine life. Walter is well known for using the tonic immobility technique to remove hooks from the mouths of sharks. He is considered a pioneer of shark diving, the sardine run and Nile crocodile diving in the Okavango delta. Walter has also featured in several international documentaries, that focused on changing people’s perception of sharks. PADI DivemasterJason Venter Meet Jason Venter, an accomplished PADI Divemaster, renowned for guiding exhilarating dives with sharks at Aliwal Shoal. With extensive training and a deep commitment to ocean conservation, he brings years of experience to every dive, ensuring safe and unforgettable underwater experiences for divers of all levels. Jason oversees the diving operations for African Watersports “Not many people get the chance to meet those legendary people we look up to. I recently got the chance to meet Mr Walter Bernardis (Mr. B). Legendary shark expert of Umkomaas, South Africa. Meeting and diving with Mr. B were 2nd only to the chances we got to talk with and listen to him. I could listen to his experiences and learn from his knowledge all day, plus he is just an all out nice guy. Him and his fabulous team gave me some of the best experiences of my life and I will treasure our time together.” Rebekah Ann Martin “During a 3-month stay in Umkomaas, I had the opportunity to conduct multiple scientific dives with African Watersports. Especially I was able to dive with Walter Bernardis. He personally allowed me to improve my knowledge of scuba diving and how to be in the water with apex predators such as leuca sharks, tiger sharks, and blacktip sharks. The diving skills of Walter Bernardis and his team of divers is very attentive to the welfare of the sea and these important predators within their ecosystem. Through my experiences with them I was able to develop a greater awareness of myself as a diver as well as how my person can be in the water with similar predators without having to dive inside a cage. Given my great passion for this animal and the choice to base my scientific interest as a biologist on them, I developed techniques and knowledge that I could hardly have done elsewhere. Beyond what I expressed above, Walter and his team has a great ability to make you feel at home even if you are thousands of miles away from your real home. A stay at African watersports is something that I not only recommend but think that if you are a lover of diving and sharks, it should definitely be done.” Pietro Storelli
The Raggies!
Winter Diving on the Aliwal Shoal. The sand tiger shark, also known as the Grey Nurse Shark, or here in South Africa as ‘Raggie” are one of the most unique and impressive species of shark. Commonly found in the warm waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, the sand tiger shark is an apex predator that has been around for millions of years. While these sharks may look intimidating due to their fierce appearance, they are actually quite docile and pose little threat to divers. The sand tiger shark is easily recognizable due to its unique color pattern. Its body is a mix of light and dark grey, with darker spots on its back and lighter spots on its belly. These sharks also have two large dorsal fins and a pointed snout. They are also quite large, growing up to 10 feet long and weighing up to 500 pounds. They feed primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans, and they rarely attack people unless they are provoked. In fact, they are more likely to be scared away by humans than to attack them. These amazing sharks can be found in a variety of habitats, but they prefer shallow waters near the shore. They tend to swim close to the bottom and can often be found aggregating on common dive sites along the Aliwal Shoal frequently visited by our Crew here at African Watersports. Under the expert guidance of the Shark Whisperer, Walter Bernardis, get up close and personal with these incredible Sharks of the Reef! Book Your Apex Predator Close Encounter Scuba Diving Adventures Today: 🌍 www.africanwatersports.co.za 📧 admin@awsports.co.za ☎ +27 (0)82-565-1210 ScubaDiving 🤿 SouthAfrica 🇿🇦 TravelPhotography 📸 Underwater 💦 Shark 🦈 Safari 🐊
Dive into the Thrill of Scuba Diving with Tiger Sharks in South Africa
Every diver knows that one of the most thrilling experiences on the planet is scuba diving with tiger sharks in South Africa. Off the Aliwal Shoal, a diver can experience the thrill of coming face-to-face with these magnificent creatures. If you are looking for an unforgettable underwater adventure, then you will want to join Walter Bernardis of African Watersports on his scuba diving excursions. Walter is an experienced dive master and has been working in the area for several years. He is passionate about sharing his love of the ocean and takes great care to ensure that each and every diver has an enjoyable and safe experience. When you join Walter on one of his dives, you will have the opportunity to swim alongside tiger sharks as they glide through the waters. These majestic creatures can reach up to thirteen feet in length and can weigh up to 1,300 pounds. But don’t let their size intimidate you—they are quite docile and are not known to attack humans. Walter will take you to the best locations on the Aliwal Shoal to spot the sharks and will provide you with the necessary safety instructions and gear. He will also provide you with a briefing on the behaviour of tiger sharks, Book Your Apex Predator Close Encounter Scuba Diving Adventures Today: www.africanwatersports.co.za 📧 admin@awsports.co.za ☎ +27 (0)82-565-1210 #ScubaDiving 🤿 #SouthAfrica 🇿🇦 #TravelPhotography 📸 #Underwater 💦 #Shark 🦈 #Safari 🐊