Sardine Run

The action that can be expected out at sea is fast and furious. The ride out to sea is picturesque and exciting as one heads out through the mighty Umzimvubu river at Port St.Johns.
Guests will be based in Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, from where they will be taken to sea on a daily basis to observe and follow activity at sea. This consists of birds fish and sea mammals.

Each vessel, licensed to carry 12 passengers is limited to carry 8 passengers for space and comfort purposes. 10 Maximum for group bookings. Experienced skippers come with all vessels on all outings to ensure your safety and make your trip interesting and informative while on safari. Contacting Ant for bookings is essential.

Photography is a must for all sorts of photo snappers! If you are simply a novice that wants to get your own wildlife action on film or the serious photographer with all the right gear you are all welcome and there is space for all. We have space on the boats that is semi-dry. All camera gear should have its own dry bag or boxes.

The best weather and sea conditions to be had on the wild coast happen to be during the winter period. A little rain and overcast conditions can be expected on days, though normally good weather prevails. It is not uncommon to have bad weather at this time of year and for once it is a good thing as it brings the action up the coast and closer to shore. Sea conditions can range from glassy smooth to white capped seas…exciting and sometimes strenuous. It will be the skippers decision to launch or not. This is for your own safety irrelevant of your experience. Our team ensures your safety first at all times.

* AIR temperatures range between 14-25 °C
It is often cold in the morning early and at night.

* WATER temperatures range between 15-22 °C

CLOTHING and OTHER THINGS TO REMEMBER

Wind and rain proof outdoor gear or a wetsuit on the boat and casual warm wear for evening outings. A warm beanie and gloves comes in handy.

* Water proof jacket & trousers (oilskins) * Sun protection lotion * Hat * Eye protection (polarized) * Binoculars * Camera and waterproof bag or box * Spare batteries * Memory cards and film

INSURANCE

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all guests and should be organized in their country of origin. This is important!

ACCOMMODATION

The accommodation is simple (3 star) and is safe. We will be accommodated on the banks of the Umzimvubu river at small private lodgings that cater for all out eating needs and we will have a bar available for the soccer fans and we will make provisions to watch the games being played on any given day. We will be preparing hearty South African food as well as some local traditional tribal dishes. If and when it is possible we will arrange a seafood evening on one of your nights with us.


BASIC ITINERARY FOR OCEAN EXPERIENCE

DAY 1

Arrive at Durban International or at the Umtata airport where you will be met by a African Ocean Charters representative and transferred to Port St Johns. (4 hour drive) Alternatively one could self drive with a hired car.
Briefing on arrival for the whole group with a short talk about what to expect at sea and safety at sea.

DAY 2 – 4

7:00 am - Full breakfast

7:30 – 8:30 am - To the boat and heading out to sea to look for activity.
We would be out at sea for 4-5 hours a day looking for birds, dolphin, whale etc. The time period spent at sea on any given day will be dependant on the amount of activity encountered and sea conditions. There will be drinks and eats available on the boat at sea as well as hot chocolate and tea or coffee.

12-13:00 - Return to launch site

15:45 pm - Take a drive to one of the spectacular view points to have sundowners or simply relax .

19:00 pm - Dinner followed by a briefing on what to expect the next day.

DAY 5

09-00 am Depart after breakfast.

OCEAN EXPERIENCE

DATES 2010

* June 14 – June 16
* June 16 – June 20
* June 20 – June 24
* June 24 – June 28
* June 28 – July 02
* July 02 – July 06
* July 06 – July 10
* July 10 – July 14
* July 14 – July 18