For the last 23 years, our team has been welcoming adventurers from around the world to witness this rare and spectacular marine migration off South Africa’s Wild Coast. But long before our guests arrive and the action begins, months of planning, coordination, and hands-on work take place behind the scenes. Here’s a peek into how we get ready.

Remote Means Ready for Anything

Our Sardine Run base is located at Mbotyi River Lodge, a beautiful and isolated lodge nestled where the river meets the ocean. With no infrastructure for quick repairs or supply runs, we need to prepare everything in advance — because once we’re on site, there’s no running out to the store for a spare part.

Preparations begin in KwaZulu-Natal, where much of our gear is stored and where we have access to essential services. Boats, motors, tractors, our microlight aircraft, and dive gear are all inspected, serviced, and tested. Every cable, screw, valve, and backup must be in place — because in the Wild Coast, the unexpected is part of daily life.

Nic, our program director and lead coordinator, oversees this entire operation like a conductor leading a symphony. Much of his work goes unseen by guests — they interact mostly with captains and dive guides — but it’s Nic’s careful orchestration behind the scenes that keeps everything running smoothly.

The Heart of It All: Our Team

By the time the season starts, our dedicated team of 15 professionals assembles from across the country. These are some of South Africa’s most experienced skippers, dive guides, pilots, paramedics, mechanics, and drivers — people who work year-round at top dive destinations and come together for the Sardine Run with unmatched passion.

We also work closely with the incredible staff of Mbotyi River Lodge, who help create a warm and welcoming home base after long days at sea.

The atmosphere is electric as the final preparations unfold — flags are raised, boats are cleaned and branding renewed, dive gear is laid out and inspected, radios tested, emergency protocols reviewed. These last few days before the first guests arrive feel like opening night before a grand performance.

Details, Logistics, and a Bit of Herding Cows

The logistics are immense. Guest bookings are managed up to two years in advance, and we coordinate everything from international airport pickups to scenic (and often bumpy!) ground transfers to the lodge.

Sometimes we fly guests in by private charter to a small landing strip at Magwa Tea Plantation, where we also operate our microlight guest flights. Last season (2024), just before a charter was due to land, we found a herd of cows grazing right on the airstrip. That led to an impromptu cow-herding mission — the kind of thing you don’t find in guidebooks but is all part of the adventure!

We also arrive at Mbotyi ourselves two weeks before the first rotation to assess the terrain, check the river’s flow into the ocean, and plan safe and efficient boat launches. Winter weather on the Wild Coast is notoriously unpredictable — recent storms knocked out electricity and communication in the area. But thanks to years of experience, we come prepared for anything.

Comfort in the Cold

While the Sardine Run is a visual and sensory feast, it also takes place in cold waters and early mornings. That’s why one of the highlights of recent seasons has been our wetsuit drying room — a warm, purpose-built space where wetsuits are hung and dried overnight using gentle heat fans. No more struggling into freezing wet neoprene at 6:00 a.m.!

And that’s not all — we’ve also stocked up on reusable heat packs from China. These clever pouches are boiled to “reset” and then click-activated to generate comforting heat. Guests love placing them inside their wetsuits or booties on cold days — a small but wonderful touch that adds warmth and care to the experience.

Returning Guests, Growing Connections

One of the most rewarding parts of running the Sardine Run year after year is seeing familiar faces return. Last season, we welcomed a family from Mexico who first joined us back in 2008. Their children were just toddlers then, some still in diapers. In 2024, they returned, for their 4^th Sardine Run with SEAL — the same family, now with teenagers bravely entering the water on their own to witness the wonders of the ocean.

Moments like these remind us that what we do goes far beyond diving. It’s about shared experiences, lifelong memories, and growing together with the ocean as our guide.

It’s in the Details

Even the little things matter — like the thoughtful gear we provide. Our branded T-shirts, fleece jackets, beanies, and sun hats are more than souvenirs. They’re daily essentials, designed with purpose: a sun hat for long days on the boat, a fleece jacket for cold evenings, a soft beanie for wind-chilled mornings. Every item tells a story of function, design, and adventure.

Counting Down

Now, we’re just days away from the first group’s arrival on June 29th, and the excitement is real. The boats are gleaming, the banners are waving, and the crew is ready to deliver unforgettable moments both above and below the surface.

If you’re joining us this year — we can’t wait to welcome you.
If you’re still dreaming about it — maybe this is your year to take the plunge. See you on the Wild Coast,
— The SEAL Expeditions Team

As the final hours tick down, we’re counting every moment until the ocean calls us again. Whether you’re packed and ready or still on the fence — this is your sign.
The Sardine Run 2025 begins June 29. Here’s how much time is left:

The post Behind the Scenes of Sardine Run: How We Prepare for the Wildest Show in the Ocean appeared first on SEAL Expeditions.

Every year, one of nature’s most spectacular events takes place along the coast of South Africa — the Sardine Run. Millions of sardines migrate northward along the coastline, attracting a frenzy of marine life including dolphins, sharks, whales, and seabirds. Witnessing the Sardine Run is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts, divers, and photographers from around the world.

But when is the best time to see the sardine run? And where are the hotspots for this breathtaking natural phenomenon?

Plan Your Trip with Our Sardine Run Probability Calculator

To help you maximize your chances of experiencing the Sardine Run, we’ve created a simple and intuitive Sardine Run Probability Calculator.
By selecting your trip dates, destination, and activity preferences, you can instantly find out the likelihood of encountering the sardine migration during your stay.

Our calculator takes into account:

• Historical sardine migration patterns
• Regional hotspots like Port St. Johns, Coffee Bay, Umkomaas, and Durban
• Preferred water conditions and visibility
• Your chosen adventure style — scuba diving, boat trips, or shore watching

Whether you’re planning a sardine run diving trip or a scenic boat tour, using our calculator will help you pick the best window to catch this natural wonder.

When Is the Best Time to See the Sardine Run?

The Sardine Run in South Africa typically occurs between late May and mid-July.
The peak activity usually happens in June, when the water temperatures drop slightly and the conditions become perfect for sardine movement.

If you’re aiming for the highest chances, plan your visit around mid-June in the area of Port St. Johns, often called the heart of the sardine migration.

Key factors influencing your experience:

• Water temperature: Cooler waters between 18–20°C are ideal
• Visibility: Best in calm weather conditions
• Wildlife activity: Expect to see massive pods of dolphins, sharks gathering around bait balls, and even humpback whales trailing the migration

Why the Sardine Run Is a Must-See Adventure

Unlike any other wildlife spectacle, the Sardine Run offers:

• Dramatic underwater action with predator-prey interactions
• A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for underwater photographers
• Incredible diversity of marine life condensed into a few magical weeks
• Coastal beauty and warm South African hospitality

Whether you are diving into bait balls, cruising alongside dolphins, or simply observing from the shore, the sardine migration in South Africa promises an unforgettable experience.

Ready to Dive Into the Adventure?

Use our Sardine Run Probability Calculator today and start planning your ultimate South African marine safari!

Find the best time to visit
Choose your perfect location
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of nature’s greatest marine show.

The post Sardine Run Probability Calculator – Best Time to See in South Africa appeared first on SEAL Expeditions.

Return Transfers from Durban to Mbotyi

All return ground transfers between King Shaka International Airport in Durban and the coastal village of Mbotyi are included in your package. You will be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle by one of our trusted drivers, ensuring a smooth and scenic 5–6 hour journey to the lodge.

Please note: International and regional flights to and from Durban are not included.

Comfortable Accommodation at Mbotyi River Lodge

You will spend 8 nights at the beautiful Mbotyi River Lodge, ideally situated along the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape. This charming lodge is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the lush, untouched forests of Pondoland, offering you the perfect balance of wilderness and comfort.

Each room includes an en-suite bathroom, daily housekeeping, and access to the lodge’s amenities such as a swimming pool, lounge areas, and bar. Wake up to breathtaking views of the Waterfall Bluff and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Seven Days of Ocean Excursions

Get ready for 7 action-packed days at sea (weather permitting), where you will follow bait balls, dolphins, whales, and birds as they participate in the epic Sardine Run. Our experienced crew and skippers will take you out each morning aboard semi-rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) for optimal maneuverability and access to the action.

Every afternoon, with our Award-Winning Land Tours Program, we explore local waterfalls, beaches, forests, and cultural highlights of the Wild Coast. You won’t just see the ocean—you’ll discover the soul of this remote and magical part of South Africa.

Full Catering During Your Stay

Your package includes full-board catering at the lodge. This means:

• A hearty breakfast before heading out to sea
• Lunch-pack, hot and cold drinks served onboard during sea excursions
• Light lunch served at the lodge on your return from sea
• Delicious, home-cooked dinners back at the lodge each evening

We cater to most dietary requirements with prior notice. Please note that alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks are not included.

Dedicated Microlight Pilot for Ocean Scouting

One of the most unique features of SEAL Expeditions is our dedicated microlight aircraft and SEAL pilot, taking to the skies each morning at sunrise to scout for sardine activity from above. With this aerial advantage, we significantly increase our chances of finding the best possible in-water encounters, for our guest.

Our pilot is in constant radio contact with the boat crew to direct them toward the most promising areas, making our expeditions more efficient and rewarding – and results more dependable.

Essential Diving Equipment Provided

We supply the following diving equipment to all participants:

• Diving cylinders (tanks)
• Daily air fills
• Weight belts

Please bring your own personal dive gear, including wetsuit, mask, fins, snorkel, BCD, regulator, and any additional accessories. If you need assistance with rental gear, we can handle all requirements, with advance notice.

More Than Just a Dive Trip

SEAL Expeditions’ Sardine Run Experience program is designed for adventurers, ocean lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are a scuba diver, free-diver, or snorkeler, you will be at the heart of the action.

Our expert team will guide you through this unforgettable journey, helping you safely navigate the unpredictable nature of the open sea while capturing incredible moments above and below the water.

Additional Inclusions

• Daily ocean briefings
• Local guides and support staff
• Marine biology insights from our crew
• Group camaraderie and storytelling over dinners
• Access to private beaches and untouched coastal trails

Important Notes

• The Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon, and sightings are dependent on conditions. We aim to maximize your chances through expert knowledge, scouting, and adaptability.
• You do not need to be a certified diver to participate. Snorkeling is often the most efficient way to interact with Sardine Run environment
• A reasonable level of fitness and comfort in the ocean is recommended.

Join SEAL Expeditions for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of the planet’s greatest wildlife spectacles. We’ve thought of everything—so you can focus on the experience, the thrill, and the magic of the Sardine Run.

The post What’s Included in Your Sardine Run Adventure with SEAL Expeditions appeared first on SEAL Expeditions.

The Sardine Run is one of the most spectacular marine events in the world, attracting scuba divers, free-divers, snorkelers, photographers – in fact any and all nature enthusiasts, from all over. The planet The best place to witness this breathtaking migration is along the eastern coast of South Africa – specifically in the Eastern Cape Province.

The phenomenon of the Sardine Run actually originates in the Western Cape, moving down to the Southern Cape and then up to the Eastern Cape (where all the diving interactions happen), then onward to Kwa-Zulu Natal province, where the traditional Sardine Run is experienced as a coastal phenomenon, with huge shoals of sardines moving north in the shallow coastline areas, and often beaching themselves, where shore-based fisherman gladly scoop them up by the crate-load.

Some of the prime Eastern Cape locations include:

East London, Coffee Bay and Port St Johns. The premium location however, is just south of Waterfall Bluff, at the village of Mbotyi. Waterfall bluff is a natural staging area for the sardines as they move up the east coast, as the coastline shape and under-sea topography form a natural bottleneck, in which the sardines gather in their millions, waiting the next opportunity to follow their current of choice, up the coast.

The first professional videography (BBC Blue Planet) was filmed off Waterfall Bluff, and it remains the most powerful location for sardine-predator interactions. The village of Mbotyi is the closest possible launch site, 7km south of the bluff, in a straight line.

Best Time to Witness the Sardine Run

The Sardine Run opportunity in the Eastern Cape occurs annually from early June to end July, when cold ocean currents push massive shoals of sardines northward along the coast. The best months for observation, at Waterfall Bluff are late June and early to mid-July, as this is when the migration reaches its peak, and marine predators are most active.

Ways to Experience the Sardine Run

There are several ways to witness this natural phenomenon, depending on your preference for adventure and comfort:

1. Boat Tours

Boat tours are one of the most popular and accessible ways to experience the Sardine Run. These tours allow visitors to get close to the action and witness the interaction between sardines and their predators. Many operators offer guided tours from all the key locations in the Eastern Cape.

2. Diving and Snorkelling

For a truly immersive experience, scuba diving and snorkelling offer a breathtaking view of the Sardine Run from below the surface. Divers can swim among massive bait balls while witnessing sharks, dolphins, and whales in action. Popular dive operators provide packages specifically designed for this event.

3. Aerial Viewing

For those who prefer a broader perspective, helicopter or microlight flights provide a bird’s-eye view of the migration. This allows visitors to appreciate the scale of the event and capture stunning aerial photographs.

4. Coastal Viewing

If you prefer to stay on land, certain coastal locations provide excellent vantage points to witness the Sardine Run. Beaches and cliffs along the KwaZulu-Natal coast offer a chance to see large shoals moving near the shoreline, along with seabirds diving for fish.

Tips for Tourists

To make the most of your Sardine Run experience, keep the following tips in mind:

Book in Advance – The Sardine Run is a seasonal event, and tours fill up quickly. Booking early ensures a spot on the best tours.

Choose the Right Gear – If you plan to dive or snorkel, ensure you have a wetsuit (as the water can be cold) and proper diving equipment.

Respect Wildlife – Always follow the guidance of your tour operators to avoid disturbing marine life.

Bring a Camera – Whether you are diving or watching from a boat, capturing this phenomenon on camera is a must.

Check the Weather – Ocean conditions can vary, so check forecasts and be flexible with your travel plans.

The Sardine Run is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for marine enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to witness nature at its most dramatic. Whether you choose to dive among the sardines, watch from a boat, or enjoy an aerial view, this event is a spectacular sight that should not be missed. Plan your trip wisely, follow expert guidance, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

The post Best Places to Witness the Sardine Run in South Africa appeared first on SEAL Expeditions.

What is the Sardine Run?

The Sardine Run is a massive migration of sardines (Sardinops sagax) along the South African coast. The primary observation area is the eastern coastline, particularly in the KwaZulu-Natal province. This event takes place annually from May to July when huge schools of sardines move north, attracting numerous predators.

Why Does the Sardine Run Occur?

Biological and Ecological Reasons:

• Cold currents – the upwelling of cold water caused by the Agulhas Current creates ideal conditions for sardines.
• Sardine behavior – seasonal migration is linked to reproduction and the search for favorable conditions.
• Oceanic currents – cold waters moving along the coast create optimal migration conditions.

Who Participates in the Run?

Key participants of the Sardine Run:

• Sardines – small but numerous fish forming the foundation of the food chain during this period.
• Predators:
  • Sharks – tiger sharks, bull sharks, and other species actively hunt sardines.
  • Dolphins – work in groups, herding fish into tight bait balls.
  • Whales – especially humpback whales, which undertake long migrations and join the hunt.
  • Seabirds – such as gannets, diving from the air to catch prey.

Importance for the Ecosystem

The Sardine Run is a crucial element of the marine ecosystem:

• Sustains the food chain, providing nourishment for numerous predators.
• Supports biodiversity by bringing together marine and coastal species.
• Acts as an indicator of ocean health and ecological processes.

Impact on Human Culture

• Tourism – every year, many tourists travel to witness this spectacle.
• Fishing industry – economic benefits from sardine harvesting and tourism.
• Traditions and folklore – local communities associate the migration with beliefs and cultural events.

Threats to the Sardine Run

Major Environmental Issues:

• Overfishing – excessive sardine harvesting threatens the sustainability of migration.
• Climate change – rising water temperatures affect migration routes and population numbers.
• Conservation efforts – the need for measures to protect this phenomenon.

How to Witness the Sardine Run?

Best Locations for Observation:

• The KwaZulu-Natal coastline is one of the best places to witness the event.
• Ways to observe:
  • Boat tours – providing close-up experiences.
  • Diving – a unique opportunity to see sardines and predators underwater.
  • Aerial tours – observing the migration from a bird’s eye view.

Interesting Facts About the Sardine Run

• Millions of sardines participate in the migration, forming enormous schools.
• Predators employ complex hunting strategies.
• Some sharks involved in the hunt travel hundreds of kilometers following the schools.

Conclusion

The Sardine Run is a unique natural event of great ecological and cultural importance. Its preservation requires collective efforts to protect the sardine population and its habitat. It is essential to treat this natural wonder with care so that future generations can witness its beauty.

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