South Australia's coastal waters are renowned for their diverse marine life, and one of the most exhilarating ways to experience this underwater world up close is through shark cage diving in Port Lincoln. This adrenaline-pumping adventure is not only an opportunity to witness these apex predators in their natural habitat, but also a chance to explore the rugged beauty of South Australia's coastline.

I was lucky enough to have ticked this off the bucket list during my solo road trip in the Eyre Peninsula, so let me share my experience to give you an idea of what to expect.

Why Port Lincoln?

Port Lincoln is the only place in Australia where you can do this activity, especially if you’re inexperienced with diving and reading shark behaviours. According to PADI, Port Lincoln is top 4 of the world’s best dive spots for great white sharks.

The Adventure Begins

In the tour I booked with Calypso Star Charters, the itinerary begins at the crack of dawn. I was picked up from my accommodation to get to their main office. Upon registering, we boarded the boat which will take about 3 hours to get to Neptune Islands - where the dive will be conducted. Three hours took a long time as the boat ride was rocky due to the high swells of up to about three to four metres!

If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t forget to bring medication. They also have some on the boat for purchase.

Safety First

Safety is the top priority when it comes to shark cage diving. While we were on our journey, the crew gave us a thorough briefing about their procedures when a shark is sighted as well as what to do during an emergency. We were divided into groups of 5 and each group had an allocated number that represents the order we go into the water.

The Encounter

Upon arrival at Neptune Islands, the crew started lowering the cage. We were also given wetsuits and boots. While waiting for the sharks, we were served a delicious lunch. And since the wildlife is unpredictable, a shark has been sighted just as we started enjoying our meals. So the rush is on for the first group to put on those thick wetsuits and prepare for the dive!

Each group gets a few minutes underwater, and trust me it feels like an eternity if the shark decides to swim away. You’ll only be staring at a vast and deep blue ocean. What’s even more gruelling is the rocky cage that feels like a roller coaster ride. Of course, you can go up the surface if you can’t stand the feeling.

BUT! All of these are forgotten when a great white shark approaches and checks out the cage. The first sight of the shark gliding effortlessly through the water is a moment I’ll never forget. These magnificent creatures can grow up to 20 feet in length, and being in such proximity to them is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

“Was it scary?”

This is the question I get a lot when I share my experience. To be honest it wasn’t intimidating at all. The sharks came close to the cage but never became aggressive. They were swimming so calmly, and when they were as close as 10 inches from us, they swam in the opposite direction.

The excursion usually includes at least one dive. However on some occasions where there’s a high shark activity, everyone can get a second or third dive giving you ample time to observe these majestic creatures. When you're not in the cage, you can relax on the boat's deck, soak up the sun, and enjoy delicious refreshments.

A Day to Remember

Shark cage diving in Port Lincoln, South Australia, is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of encountering great white sharks with the natural beauty of the Eyre Peninsula's coastline. It provides an invaluable opportunity for research and education, contributing to our understanding of these apex predators. So, if you're seeking the ultimate underwater adventure, don't miss the opportunity to dive into the heart of shark territory in Port Lincoln.

What to Bring

When embarking on a shark cage diving adventure, it's important to pack appropriately. Here's a list of essentials:

Swimwear: a swimsuit or rash guard to easily put the wetsuit on.
Warm Clothing: to wear between dives, as the ocean can be chilly. I brought a down jacket and I never thought I needed it as it was the start of summer when I did the tour.
Medicine for seasickness: don’t fret if you forget one. They have some for purchase.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun while on the boat's deck. Mineral sunscreens are ideal.
Camera: Don't forget your underwater camera to capture these incredible moments. Rentals are also available.
Sense of Adventure: Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure and wonder.

Australia's Top Shark Cage Diving Experience in Port Lincoln, SA