Treat the ocean here like "big water". If swell is up, switch to tidal pools, cliff walks, or inland plans.
For scuba, carry and know how to deploy an SMB. Boat traffic and changing visibility make it important.
For freediving and snorkeling, never go solo. Use a float and flag for shore sessions and keep exits close.
Kelp is beautiful but can snag gear. Move slowly, keep buoyancy under control, and carry a cutting tool.
Shark cage diving is a regulated activity. Follow the operator briefing, keep hands inside the cage, and do conservative breath-holds.

Diving incidents require rapid coordination. Call DAN early for advice and referral.

DAN Southern Africa provides a 24/7 diving emergency hotline and can help coordinate evacuation and chamber referral.
For urgent sea rescue, contact the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre or use the national emergency number.
The closest larger medical facilities are typically in Hermanus and Cape Town. Plan that serious care may require transfer.

Treat the ocean here like "big water". If swell is up, switch to tidal pools, cliff walks, or inland plans.
For scuba, carry and know how to deploy an SMB. Boat traffic and changing visibility make it important.
For freediving and snorkeling, never go solo. Use a float and flag for shore sessions and keep exits close.
Kelp is beautiful but can snag gear. Move slowly, keep buoyancy under control, and carry a cutting tool.
Shark cage diving is a regulated activity. Follow the operator briefing, keep hands inside the cage, and do conservative breath-holds.

Diving incidents require rapid coordination. Call DAN early for advice and referral.

DAN Southern Africa provides a 24/7 diving emergency hotline and can help coordinate evacuation and chamber referral.
For urgent sea rescue, contact the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre or use the national emergency number.
The closest larger medical facilities are typically in Hermanus and Cape Town. Plan that serious care may require transfer.

Even on sunny days, cold water plus wind can cause rapid heat loss. Wear a proper wetsuit (often 5mm to 7mm) and pack a windproof layer for the boat ride.

Many shorelines around Gansbaai are not beginner-friendly. If you see strong surge, surge channels, or dumping waves, switch to a tidal pool plan instead of forcing an entry.

Shark and whale boats are weather dependent. Build buffer days, and book your highest-priority trip early in your stay.

Kelp is part of the magic, but it can snag hoses, fins, and weight belts. Carry a cutting tool, stay calm, and maintain buddy contact.

This region is conservation-sensitive.

Walker Bay functions as a whale sanctuary Marine Protected Area in peak season. Respect boating restrictions and viewing distances.
De Hoop is a no-take Marine Protected Area. Fishing and removal or disturbance of marine organisms are prohibited along the protected coast.
Choose responsible operators for shark cage diving and whale watching. Avoid any provider that encourages touching, feeding, or harassment of wildlife.
Reduce impact: pack out litter, avoid single-use plastics on boats, and use reef-safe sunscreen.

Contact	Role	Phone	Availability
National Emergency Number (South Africa)	Police, ambulance, fire (mobile)	112	24/7
South African Police Service	Police emergency	10111	24/7
Ambulance and Fire	Medical emergencies	10177	24/7
NSRI Emergency Operations Centre	Sea rescue coordination	087 094 9774	24/7
DAN Southern Africa Dive Emergency Hotline	Diving medical advice and coordination	+27 828 10 60 10	24/7
DAN Southern Africa Dive Emergency Hotline (within South Africa)	Diving medical advice and coordination	0800 020 111	24/7
Provincial Hospital (Hermanus)	Nearest public hospital (switchboard)	028 312 1166/67	24/7
Overstrand Municipality	After-hours municipal services	028 313 8111	After hours

Gansbaai

Safety And Conservation

Top Risks

Dive safety

Snorkel and freedive safety

Safety And Conservation

Top Risks

Dive safety

Snorkel and freedive safety

Wildlife and protected areas

Emergency contacts