Our Story · Since 1996
About African Shark
Eco-Charters
Who We Are
Built from passion.
Run with purpose.
True passion is unmistakable when a deep love for something becomes a life’s work — and that is exactly how African Shark Eco-Charters was born. Built on a genuine fascination with sharks, especially Great Whites, the company exists to share that passion with others in a meaningful and responsible way.
Over the years, the focus has remained on changing perceptions, helping guests move beyond fear to understanding, respect, and appreciation for these remarkable animals.
African Shark Eco-Charters is a leading shark cage diving operator in False Bay, recognised for its strong commitment to safety and environmental responsibility. Every aspect of the operation is guided by a clear “first do no harm” philosophy, ensuring that marine life is protected and the natural environment is respected at all times.
Trips only run in suitable conditions, prioritising both guest safety and ocean wellbeing.
Our Philosophy
Quality over
quantity, always.
By offering small, immersive experiences, guests are given the rare opportunity to observe sharks in their natural habitat — witnessing real behaviours and interactions in the wild.
The result is not just an adrenaline-filled adventure, but a powerful shift in perspective. Guests leave with a deeper connection to the ocean and a renewed respect for sharks, often sharing that experience and awareness long after they return home.
We take a maximum of just 12 guests per trip. No crowds. No waiting your turn while 40 people rotate through a cage. Just a personal, immersive experience where you actually get time in the water.
01
First Do No Harm
Every decision we make is guided by our commitment to the ocean and its wildlife. Trips only run when conditions are right — for the animals and for our guests.
02
Small Groups Only
A maximum of 12 guests per trip means genuine attention, real cage time, and an experience that never feels rushed or commercial. Quality, not volume.
03
Education & Respect
We believe understanding transforms perception. Every trip is an opportunity to connect guests to the science, ecology, and wonder of these magnificent predators.
A TRUE representation of Great White Sharks in the greatest place on earth to view them, with the greatest expert in the area. The love of these truly magnificent animals, respected in their own environment with no artificial interference, was both an honour and an inspiration to see.
Ricardo Lacombe — Guest Testimonial
Meet Our Team
The people behind
every dive
Owner & Founder
Rob Lawrence
Rob Lawrence is the founder and owner of African Shark Eco-Charters, building the company from the ground up through vision, determination, and a lifelong connection to the ocean.
Raised in False Bay’s historic fishing community, he combines generational marine knowledge with extensive operational expertise.
Rob oversees vessel operations, logistics, safety, and business development, ensuring exceptional guest experiences. Together with his wife Karen, he continues to grow the company while maintaining its reputation for premium, small-group shark diving and responsible marine tourism.
Owner
Karen Lawrence
Karen Lawrence is the managing director of African Shark Eco-Charters with over 20 years of leadership in the industry. She has successfully grown the business into a premium shark cage diving operator known for small-group experiences and sustainable practices.
Under her direction, the company has consistently achieved top-tier client satisfaction, including multiple years of 5-star TripAdvisor ratings. Karen oversees strategic planning, operations, and international marketing, combining hands-on experience with a strong commitment to ocean conservation and responsible tourism.
Skipper
Abdul-Aziz "Poenas"
Known affectionately as “Poenas,” Abdul-Aziz has been a key figure in the Shark Cage Diving industry around False Bay’s Seal Island for over 25 years.
A Capetonian by birth, his early exposure to traditional fishing methods sparked his interest in ocean conservation. After witnessing the impact of trek-net fishing on shark populations, Poenas committed to preserving marine life. With two decades of experience as a qualified skipper, he combines his love for the ocean with a dedication to shark conservation.
PADI-Certified Dive Instructor
Eddie
Eddie brings professional dive instruction to every trip, ensuring all guests are briefed, comfortable, and confident in the water. His expertise with the hookah system means guests get maximum time enjoying the experience.
Guide
Katie
Katie’s enthusiasm for sharks and marine conservation is contagious. As a guide, she brings depth and context to every trip — turning a thrilling encounter into a genuinely educational and memorable experience.
Guide
Tshwane
Booking Manager
Nadine Bentley
With a strong background in sales and hospitality, Nadine Bentley is the Booking and Client Liaison Manager at African Shark Eco-Charters. She guides guests through the booking process, providing clear information, handling reservations and payments, and ensuring every detail is managed smoothly. Known for her warm, approachable nature and exceptional organisational skills, Nadine is dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service. Her professionalism and genuine care help create a seamless, stress-free experience from first enquiry to departure.
Booking Agent
Kyle
Kyle is a valued member of the African Shark Eco-Charters team, helping ensure every guest enjoys a smooth and welcoming experience. He manages bookings, payment processing, and guest enquiries with accuracy, efficiency, and clear communication. Often welcoming guests after their shark diving adventure, Kyle is known for his friendly nature, positive attitude, and willingness to help. His attention to detail, professionalism, and commitment to exceptional customer service make him an important part of delivering the company’s high standards.
TripAdvisor
African Shark Eco-Charters has won the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence every year since 2015.
Read reviews from our many fully satisfied guests or tell the world about your experience.