This annual migration of millions of sardines over thousands of kilometres has been described as one of the greatest marine spectacles on earth. The sardine run phenomenon takes place every year off the eastern coast of South Africa, in the coastal waters dominated by the mighty Mozambique Current, which sweeps south from the equatorial Indian Ocean to eventually mix with the cold Benguela Current on the Agulhas Banks off the Cape of Good Hope.

The sardine run occurs each year between May and July, where huge shoals of millions of fish travel more than 1000km. Shoals of sardines of 15km long, three and a half kilometres wide and 40m deep are spread over 1000km stretch of water, and offer the perfect feeding ground for predators, and thus offering great viewing of sharks, dolphins, seals, whales and spectacular photography and diving opportunities.

Day 1

You will be met upon arrival at Durban International by an Unreal Dive representative, who will hand over all documentation, and assist with a transfer to your lodge accommodation for check in. After dinner this evening your skipper will offer a brief orientation of what the following days' arrangements are, and make recommendations on other activities on offer in and around the area. Overnight at Mbotyi River Lodge

Day 2 to 6

Depending on the action of the sardine run, you can either enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge, and a packed lunch for the boat, or make an early start to the day with a packed breakfast and return back to the lodge for lunch later in the afternoon.

The launch time is dependant on light and the breakfast option, but varies from 06h30 to 07h30. The Boat launches from the beach, while a microlight, already in the air, will be advising the boat of the happenings in the water within a 20 km radius on the launch site.

Once the sardines are located, you can choose to enter the water with snorkel or Scuba, or view this spectacular site from the deck of the boat. After an action filled morning at sea, you can return to the lodge for the remainder of the day at leisure or will be able to enjoy the following activities in the afternoon: microlight flip, horse riding, nature walks or scenic drives. Dinner will be served at the lodge. After dinner each evening, the day's activities and the next days' arrangements are discussed with your skipper and microlight pilot. Overnight at Mbotyi River Lodge

Day 7

Breakfast will be served at the lodge this morning before check out and departure to the airport for your departure flight.

Expedition Includes

Return Transfers from Durban to Mbotyi

6 Nights accommodation at Mbotyi River Lodge on a Half Board basis

Full Day excursions on Boat (07h00 to 14h00) - Weather Permitting

Snacks and refreshments while on the boat

A dedicated microlight pilot to put the group on the action with a VHF radio

Air fills, cylinder and weight belt (if diving)

DAN Medical Insurance (www.dansa.org)

Expedition does NOT Include:

ALL International and Regional Flights