Air Jaws Expedition
Air Jaws Expedition
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Duration:
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$2,900.00 – $3,200.00
Join me, Ryan Johnson — shark biologist and Shark Week presenter — for the ultimate 7-night white shark expedition in Mossel Bay, South Africa, the last place on Earth where great whites still launch from the deep in full-speed breaches. This is an edutourism adventure like no other, featuring four early morning breaching expeditions, four face-to-face cage dives, a helicopter shark survey, a dramatic day trip to the Robberg seal colony, and a classic Big Five safari.
With over 20 years of white shark research behind me, I’ll guide you through every encounter, sharing rare insights into shark behaviour and conservation. This expedition is also a dream for photographers and filmmakers — with unmatched access to Airjaws in its natural habitat, you’ll have the chance to capture once-in-a-lifetime shots both above and below the surface.
BOOK ON Expedition
Join me, Ryan Johnson — shark biologist and Shark Week presenter — on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition to witness one of nature’s most incredible spectacles: breaching great white sharks in Mossel Bay, South Africa. This region is the last place on Earth where great whites can still be reliably seen launching themselves clear out of the ocean in full-speed, high-impact breaches. I’ve spent years studying and filming these animals here, and I’m excited to share this unique opportunity with you.
Over the course of seven nights, we’ll head out on four early morning breaching expeditions, towing seal decoys across known hunting zones just after sunrise. These tours offer the best chance to see great whites explode from the water in breathtaking displays of power and predatory precision. We’ll also do four dedicated cage dives, giving you the rare opportunity to come face-to-face with great whites from the safety of a floating cage. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or first-timer, I’ll be with you every step of the way, offering insights into their behavior, biology, and conservation.
We’ll also take a day trip to the Robberg Peninsula near Plettenberg Bay. It’s one of my favorite places — not only for its stunning views and hiking paths, but for the chance to see great whites patrolling the massive Cape fur seal colony below. If we’re lucky, we might catch them engaging in some truly wild interactions with the seals. Another highlight is a scenic helicopter flight along the Mossel Bay coastline, where you’ll see sharks from above, gaining a rare perspective on how they move through the shallows and reefs. We’ll round things out with a classic African safari day, where we trade ocean for savanna and search for lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in one of South Africa’s top wildlife reserves.
Our accommodation for the week is at Fly Me to the Moon Guesthouse, a comfortable and stylish retreat set in the peaceful countryside just ten minutes from our launch site. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the water. My team will take care of all the catering — breakfasts after breaching trips, packed lunches for our outings, and five dinners at the guesthouse, with two additional evenings spent at great local restaurants.
This expedition is more than just an adventure — it’s a deep dive into shark science and conservation. With small group sizes, there’s plenty of time for questions, photography, and meaningful encounters. If you’ve ever watched Shark Week and dreamed of being there in person, this is your chance. Come join me on the front lines of white shark research, where science, wildlife, and raw nature meet.
4 x Morning Breach Expeditions (2 hours each)
- Location: Mossel Bay
- Time: Sunrise departures
- Duration: Approx. 2 hours each
Experience the world’s most spectacular marine predation event: the breach. In the golden light of dawn, seal decoys are towed across known hunting routes of Mossel Bay’s great white sharks. With luck and patience, you’ll witness massive sharks launching from the deep in high-velocity aerial attacks — a heart-pounding spectacle usually only seen on Shark Week. Ryan Johnson and his team provide real-time commentary and insights into shark behavior, hunting strategies, and the importance of their conservation.
4 x White Shark Caging Expeditions (4 hours each)
- Location: Offshore from Mossel Bay
- Time: Late morning to afternoon
- Duration: Approx. 4 hours each
Come face-to-face with the ocean’s top predator in a way few ever do. Our cage dives allow guests to safely enter the water while white sharks cruise just feet away. These underwater encounters are powerful and awe-inspiring. Ryan and his team explain observed behaviors and answer questions, offering a deeper understanding of shark biology and ecology. The experience is open to both experienced divers and first-time participants.
1 x Robberg Peninsula Expedition – Plettenberg Bay (6 hours)
- Location: Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay
- Time: Early departure
- Duration: Approx. 6 hours
A scenic road trip takes us to the dramatic Robberg Peninsula, home to a vast Cape fur seal colony. Guests hike along coastal ridges with sweeping ocean views, looking down on one of South Africa’s richest marine predator-prey hotspots. On fortunate days, great whites can be seen patrolling the colony, occasionally chasing seals in dramatic displays of agility and strategy. The surrounding reserve also offers excellent photography opportunities.
1 x White Shark Helicopter Survey (1 hour)
- Location: Mossel Bay coastline
- Time: Scheduled based on weather conditions
- Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Board a private helicopter to conduct a scientific aerial survey of white shark movements along the Mossel Bay coast. This flight reveals the otherwise hidden world beneath the surface — with sharks often visible from the air as they cruise the reefs and shallows. Ryan shares his knowledge during the flight, explaining how aerial data supports long-term shark research and protection strategies.
1 x Elephant Walk (2 hours)
- Location: Indalu Private Game Reserve
- Duration: Approx.. 2 hours
Walk side by side with rescued African elephants in a safe and ethical environment. Accompanied by expert handlers and conservation staff, participants learn about the elephants’ individual stories, behavior, and social structure. This calm, grounded experience provides a deeply personal encounter with one of Africa’s most iconic and intelligent animals.
1 x Game Drive Safari (Half day)
- Location: Gondwana
- Duration: Approx. 4 to 5 hours
Explore the African bush on a professionally guided game drive in search of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. This classic safari experience is complemented by sightings of giraffe, zebra, antelope, and a variety of birdlife. It’s a land-based adventure that provides a broader appreciation of South Africa’s extraordinary wildlife and ecosystems.
Evenings: Fireside Talks and Photo Reviews
Each evening, guests gather for relaxed discussions and briefings with me. These sessions include photo and video reviews from the day’s activities, presentations on shark science and conservation, and opportunities to ask questions in an informal and inspiring setting. Evenings are enjoyed over delicious local cuisine, with stunning views.
Please note – additional weather-independent wildlife / cultural activities and expeditions will be added if weather does not permit the full quota of breaching and cage diving trips to be obtained. These activities include:
- Winetasting
- Horseback Safari
- Cultural Tours
Accommodation for this expedition will be at the beautifully appointed Fly Me to the Moon Guesthouse, offering relaxed luxury in a peaceful countryside setting just 10 minutes from our shark expedition launch site. Overlooking the rolling hills outside Mossel Bay, the guesthouse is the ideal retreat to unwind after a full day of ocean adventures. Guests will be accommodated in either private or shared rooms, each tastefully decorated and equipped for comfort.
All catering during the expedition is arranged by my team. Guests will enjoy hearty breakfasts served after each morning breaching trip, convenient packed lunches for daily outings, and five dinners prepared at the guesthouse. On two evenings, we’ll dine at handpicked local restaurants to enjoy some of the region’s best cuisine and atmosphere.
Included in Expedition:
Accommodation
- All nights of accommodation during the expedition (sharing or single)
Meals
- Daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners (unless otherwise stated)
- Packed meals during activities or excursions
- Breaveges at guesthouse (beer, wine, cider, cool drinks)
All Scheduled Activities
- Shark breaching trips
- Cage diving expeditions
- Helicopter flight
- Guided day trip (Robberg Peninsula)
- Safari/game drive
- Full-time leadership and guidance by me
- Local guides and specialists where needed
Transportation
- Ground transfers during the trip (e.g., to/from launch sites, airports, activities)
- All in-trip transport related to the scheduled itinerary
Permits and Entry Fees
- Marine reserve access (Robberg)
- Wildlife reserve entry
- Activity permits (e.g., for cage diving, seal viewing, etc.)
Equipment
- Use of diving/snorkelling gear
- Safety briefings and gear for boat-based and aerial activities
- First aid equipment on site
Educational Content
- Presentations / briefings by me
- Conservation insights and research overviews
Group Support
- Expedition staff and support crew
- Emergency assistance coordination
- Photography / Videography Support
- Guidance on photographing sharks and wildlife
- Opportunities for sharing/reviewing photos
Excluded from Expedition price:
International Flights
- Airfare to and from Mossel Bay, South Africa (George Airport)
Travel Insurance
- Mandatory insurance covers emergency evacuation, medical costs, cancellations, adventure activities, and loss or theft of equipment.
Personal Gear
- Cameras, SD cards, underwater housings, and binoculars
Optional or Free-Time Activities
- Additional excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Spa treatments, private tours, or unscheduled side trips
Alcohol and Speciality Beverages
- Drinks outside of the guesthouse are not included
Gratuities
- Tips for guides, drivers, and support crew (standard but optional)
Visa Fees
- Entry visas and travel document processing (if required for South Africa)
To ensure a world class expedition, I have partner with the following companies.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes – In recent years, two orcas, Port and Starboard, have harassed and killed many great white sharks in South Africa, and caused local dispersal from traditional aggregation sites. The two primary sites hit by this are the western sites of Fale Bay and Gansbaai. In 2022, Orca hit four sharks in Mossel Bay over 12 months, and also caused a local dispersal. However, since 2025, the population has re-established and is currently the only population in South Africa where they can be routinely sighted and observed breaching.
No — freediving or swimming with great white sharks outside of the cage is strictly prohibited on this expedition. South African regulations do not permit anyone to exit the cage while in the presence of white sharks without a special permit, and doing so would violate our operating permit. In addition, water visibility in Mossel Bay is often limited, making open-water interaction with great whites dangerous. All shark encounters on this trip take place from within a specially designed surface cage, ensuring your safety while still offering unforgettable close-up views of these incredible predators.
No SCUBA diving certification is required to take part in this expedition. All cage diving is done on breath-hold (also known as surface cage diving), which means you’ll remain at the surface of the water with your head just below, using mask and snorkel only. There is no use of SCUBA tanks or underwater diving during the trip. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, making it safe and accessible for both non-divers and seasoned water enthusiasts alike. If you’re comfortable in the water and eager to see great whites up close, you’re all set!
Absolutely — and we encourage it! This trip offers incredible opportunities for photography and videography. Be sure your equipment is well protected from saltwater, and consider travel insurance for valuables.
Most activities are moderate in intensity, with the hike along Robberg being the most intensive (1 hour hike on a path). Cage diving requires basic water confidence, and boat trips can involve some bouncing and sea spray. A general level of fitness will help you enjoy all aspects of the expedition.
For a vast majority of countries, South Africa issues an automatic visitor’s entry for a period of three months when arriving in the country. Some countries do require a permit prior to arrival (e.g. India, China). Please review if you are required to pre-obtain a visa here
When it comes to arrival and departure, we ensure that each adventurer enjoy stress free travel in South Africa. The formal expedition starts and finishes at George Airport, South Africa. We will have a shuttle meet you at the airport for your arrival and drop you off at the airport for departure.
Security note – If you are transiting and clearing customs at Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo) International Airport, please be aware that baggage security can be a concern. We strongly advise that all valuables — including cameras, underwater housings, and other electronics — be kept in your carry-on luggage whenever possible. If you must place any valuable items in your checked baggage, ensure your bags are securely locked and professionally plastic-wrapped before departure. Unfortunately, there have been frequent reports of theft from checked luggage by ground handling staff at Johannesburg airport, so taking these precautions is highly recommended.
Mossel Bay – South Africa is far from Malaria areas, and there are no strange African diseases which you could pick up. Please ensure that you bring any medication required. If you will require medication whilst in South Africa, please contact me to ensure that it is available, and bring your prescription.
Essential Clothing
- Warm windproof jacket (for early morning breaching trips)
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece or insulated mid-layer
- Lightweight waterproof jacket or rain shell
- Comfortable casual clothing (for daytime and evenings)
- Swimwear (for cage diving and pool use)
- Sun-protective long-sleeve shirts (quick-dry fabric ideal)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
- Warm beanie or hat
- Neck gaiter or buff (for wind/spray on the boat)
- Sunglasses – polarised (essential for spotting sharks in the water)
- Sun hat or cap
- Warm socks and underwear
Dive & Water Gear (Optional if you have your own)
- Wetsuit (optional – 5mm recommended if bringing your own)
- Mask and snorkel (optional; all gear provided if needed)
- GoPro or waterproof camera gear (if you want underwater footage)
- Dry bag (for storing gear or cameras on the boat)
Personal Items & Accessories
- Daypack or small backpack
- Sunscreen (reef-safe SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Reusable water bottle
- Notebook and pen (for shark notes, journaling)
- Travel adapters (South Africa uses Type M plugs, 230V)
- Toiletries and medications (seasickness tablets if prone)
Photography & Tech (Highly Recommended)
- DSLR or mirrorless camera with zoom (70-200m) and wide-angle (16035mm) lens
- Gopro camera
- Underwater camera or housing (for cage dives)
- Spare batteries, memory cards, chargers
- Laptop or storage device (for daily photo backup)
- Binoculars (optional, great for spotting sharks and wildlife)
Documents
- Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
- Travel insurance (including coverage for shark diving and adventure sports)
- Flight tickets and itinerary
- COVID documents or visas, if applicable
Yes — comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory for all participants joining the expedition. Your policy should cover emergency medical treatment, evacuation (including from remote or marine environments), and trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen circumstances. In addition, we strongly recommend that you carry insurance for any valuable personal equipment — especially cameras, underwater housings, and electronics — as these items are vulnerable to damage from saltwater, boat movement, or loss during air travel. Please check that your policy specifically includes adventure activities such as shark cage diving and marine-based excursions. Proof of insurance may be requested before departure.
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