# Oceans Around Us

> Ethical Marine Life Expeditions


## Posts

- [Wild Encounters: SA Is An Underwater Photography Adventure](https://oceansaroundus.com/wild-encounters-sa-is-an-underwater-photography-adventure/): Underwater Photography Requires A Bit Of Luck And Opportunity… South Africa presents a frontier of raw, untamed beauty, offering this in abundance in an unparalleled adventure for anyone passionate about underwater photography. It’s a dynamic world where one dive can lead you through the sun-dappled corridors of a magical kelp forest, playing hide-and-seek with inquisitive Cape fur seals, while the next has you holding your breath in the deep blue, watching the sleek, powerful forms of blue sharks materialize from the depths. It’s a realm of thrilling, unpredictable, and profoundly rewarding encounters making the shot of a lifetime a possibility.…
- [Did You Know?](https://oceansaroundus.com/did-you-know/): With a shift in how people consume media, studies show a strong preference for video content, with over 80% of people choosing to watch a video rather than read a blog post. Reading Can Be Very Rewarding… Still here? Two years ago, (without any announcement) a single sentence with very simple instructions was hidden in plain sight on the Oceans Around Us website. The first person to find it (and carry out the instructions) won a free trip… That was not the first time… 🧐 Be sure to follow our updates on this blog as well as on our Instagram…
- [Sardine Run Photography With Tim Jenka](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-photography-with-tim-jenka/): Bucket list Expedition For Underwater Photographers… For many underwater photographers, the annual Sardine Run in South Africa is the ultimate bucket-list adventure, and for good reason. It’s a breathtaking, chaotic, and unpredictable event that offers unparalleled opportunities for sardine run photography. Millions of sardines moving as one, forming a colossal bait ball that attracts a full cast of marine predators. From the lightning-fast attacks of common dolphins and the dramatic lunges of Bryde’s whales to the sleek, powerful presence of sharks, every moment is a chance to freeze a spectacular natural spectacle in time.  This isn’t just about documenting wildlife;…
- [Sardine Run - How Dolphins Use Echolocation](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-how-dolphins-use-echolocation/): Sardine Run – Clicking And Buzzing… When we think of dolphins, we often picture playful leaps, friendly clicks, and high intelligence. But beneath their cheerful surface lies one of nature’s most sophisticated sensory systems: echolocation. This biological sonar helps dolphins “see” using sound, allowing them to thrive in the murky depths of the ocean. One of the most impressive demonstrations of this ability can be seen during the sardine run, a spectacular marine event that showcases the true power of dolphin echolocation in action. What is Echolocation? Echolocation is a process where dolphins emit high-frequency clicks from their nasal passages,…
- [Diving with Orcas in Norway vs. The Sardine Run in South Africa](https://oceansaroundus.com/diving-with-orcas-in-norway-vs-the-sardine-run-in-south-africa/): Two Epic Underwater Adventures… When it comes to unforgettable diving experiences, two unique events stand out: diving with orcas in Norway and participating in the Sardine Run off the coast of South Africa. Both offer incredible opportunities to witness marine life in its most dynamic and raw form, but they are vastly different in terms of environment, marine life, and overall experience. Let’s dive into what makes each of these underwater adventures special and how they differ. 1. Animals You Might Encounter In terms of sheer diversity of wildlife, the Sardine Run offers significantly more to see and experience, while…
- [Incredible Sardine Run Video (2024)](https://oceansaroundus.com/incredible-sardine-run-video-2024/): Common Dolphins Working Hard More underwater footage captured by Jacques de Vos during last season… Send us a message to find out more about joining this or other small group South African expeditions… See more images…
- [Diving in South Africa: Seven things you might now know...](https://oceansaroundus.com/diving-in-south-africa-seven-things-you-might-now-know/): Diving in South Africa: Seven things you might now know… South Africa’s coastline offers an underwater adventure like no other, yet many people underestimate just how extraordinary diving here can be. Whether you’re a scuba diver, freediver, or snorkeler, here are seven surprising things about South Africa’s diving scene that might make you want to grab your gear! 1. Water Visibility is Better Than You Might Think (Even in False Bay!) Kelp Forest – False Bay While False Bay has a reputation for murky waters, on the right day, visibility can reach up to 15 to 20 meters (50 to…
- [Chasing the Sardine Run Underwater - Ikelite](https://oceansaroundus.com/chasing-the-sardine-run-underwater-ikelite/): Chasing the Sardine Run Underwater – Ikelite Additional photos – Mark Gambol In 2024 Ikelite’s Head Video Producer, Logan Wood joined us for our Cape Peninsula / Sardine Run expedition for an unforgettable two weeks! Bait balls, humpback whales, dolphins, sharks and more – the latest Ikelite article details the challenges and excitement of capturing the underwater spectacle of the Sardine Run, highlighting the intense and unpredictable nature of the Sardine Run. It follows Logan and Jacques de Vos (longtime Ikelite Ambassador), who share their experiences and expertise capturing the event. The article (and video) paints a great picture and…
- [Sardine Run - Spectacular Common Dolphin Footage](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-spectacular-common-dolphin-footage/): Sardine Run Dolphin Magic Sardine Run 2024 – Have a look at this beautiful footage of common dolphins being very inquisitive about the camera following our boat.  Jacques de Vos constructed a special housing to capture these moments and the results did not disappoint! Interested in joining one of our South African expedition weeks?  We offer small group experiences for both Cape Peninsula + Sardine Run or Sardine Run only expeditions. Send us a message to find out more…
- [Cape Point - 15 Interesting Facts](https://oceansaroundus.com/cape-point-interesting-facts/): Cape Point – Beacon At The Corner Of Africa Cape Point is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, yet many visitors are unaware of the intriguing secrets and fascinating facts linked to this beautiful place. Here are 15 facts you may not know about Cape Point… 1 – Crisp, Clean Air The air at Cape Point is some of the purest in the world, making it an ideal location for one of the Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) atmospheric research stations. GAW, a global network created by the World Meteorological Organization, monitors trends and changes in the Earth’s atmosphere.…
- [Norway's Orca Tourism - Chaos In The Fjords](https://oceansaroundus.com/norways-orca-tourism-chaos-in-the-fjords/): Growing concerns surrounding Norway's orca season. Boat traffic & unethical behavior threatens the balance of this spectacular natural event.
- [Appreciating The Sardine Run In A Changing World](https://oceansaroundus.com/appreciating-the-sardine-run-in-a-changing-world/): Witnessing Change In Ecosystems Over Time The Sardine Run, an incredible natural phenomenon off the coast of South Africa, is renowned as one of the most spectacular marine events on earth. But with changing weather patterns and potential environmental concerns, there’s a growing sense of urgency to witness this underwater ballet before it might change forever.  The Sardine Run is just one example in our worlds ocean of an epic natural migration, where every year, millions of sardines embark on a spectacular migration along the coast of South Africa. This feeding frenzy is a cornerstone of the marine ecosystem, attracting…
- [Sardine Run - Our Accommodation](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-our-accommodation/): Sardine Run – As Comfortable As It Gets Where Will We Be Staying? Sardine Run Accommodation comforts do not get better than this – our accommodation offers a welcome change to the ‘usual’ Sardine Run experience of enduring cumbersome transport to the location, getting dressed in a tent, or having to be satisfied with cramped spartan accommodation. After landing at the airport in East London, you will be transported by car for roughly 40 minutes up the coast to your base for the week. Situated right on the bank of a beautiful estuary, you will be welcomed by stunning views…
- [Sardine Run - Frequently Asked Questions](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-frequently-asked-questions/): Sardine Run FAQ When is the Sardine Run? The Sardine Run isn’t a fixed event on the calendar. For the area where we operate, it typically kicks off in mid to late May and stretches well into July. The sardine shoals’ movements depend on factors like ocean currents and water temperature and understanding these changes is crucial to having a successful season. Do I need to be a diver to experience the Sardine Run? No – Most of the diving is done on snorkel as the action is very near the surface. This means snorkeling is also an option and…
- [Common Dolphins - Masters of the Sardine Run](https://oceansaroundus.com/common-dolphin-masters-of-the-sardine-run/): The Common Dolphin – More Than Just Commonplace Common dolphins, despite their name, are anything but ordinary. This dazzling marine mammal of the deep is not only the most abundant cetacean (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) in the world, but also boasts a fascinating social life, impressive skills, and plays a vital role in healthy ocean ecosystems. During our Sardine Run Expeditions we often encounter common dolphins, specifically the long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis), which are the most abundant predators participating in the Sardine Run. Their sleek, agile bodies and social nature make them perfectly suited for this dynamic event. Abundant…
- [Penguins Of The Cape Peninsula](https://oceansaroundus.com/penguins-of-the-cape-peninsula/): Waddling Wonders: Up Close with the Penguins of Boulders Beach Nestled amongst the granite boulders of Simon’s Town, South Africa, lies a unique beach colony teeming with charismatic residents – the African penguins. Boulders Beach, part of Table Mountain National Park, is home to roughly 3,000 of these tuxedo-clad birds, offering visitors the rare chance to witness their fascinating lives up close. These penguins, also known as Jackass penguins for their donkey-like calls, first arrived at Boulders Beach in the early 1980s. Their choice of habitat wasn’t random. The sheltered coves formed by the boulders provide a safe haven for…
- [Diving, Underwater & Ocean Themed Digital Games](https://oceansaroundus.com/diving-underwater-and-ocean-games/): Diving, Underwater & Ocean Themed Games For Divers Waiting for your next diving adventure? Discover a great way to scratch that ‘diving itch’… Gaming can be a great way to relax, spend some idle time (maybe travelling to your next Oceans Around Us diving Expedition), or even to make new friends who have similar interests. Another common reason for gaming is its ability to satisfy a passion when doing the ‘real thing’ simply is not possible.  In the modern world of media consumption, most ocean lovers satisfy their yearning for the sea by binge watching underwater Instagram or YouTube content. …
- [Freediving - Get The Most From Your Next Dive Trip](https://oceansaroundus.com/freediving-get-the-most-from-your-next-dive-trip/): Completing a freediving course will enhance your next in-water adventures, make it more rewarding, all while doing so safely and ethically. 
- [Why Dive In South Africa?](https://oceansaroundus.com/why-dive-in-south-africa/): With over 12 000 species of animals and marine plants, when visiting South Africa as a diving destination you simply can not go wrong. 
- [Sardine Run - South African Expedition 2023 (Part 2)](https://oceansaroundus.com/sardine-run-south-african-expedition-2023-part-2/): In May/June 2023 we kicked off the second week which was the legendary Sardine Run. Freediving with sharks, dolphins, whales, birds and more!
- [Arctic Freediving - Do We See Any Other Cetaceans Than Orcas & Humpback Whales?](https://oceansaroundus.com/arctic-freediving-do-we-see-any-other-cetaceans-than-orcas-humpback-whales/): The ‘Regulars’ – Orcas And Humpback Whales Every winter from roughly mid October, large schools of Norwegian Spring Spawning herring arrive along the northern coastline of Northern Norway. Eventually these schools move into the ‘shallower’ fjords and bays of this incredible coast and consequently, so do large pods of orcas and humpback whales. These are the animals we expect to see and freedive with each winter and often in very large groups. Last winter we had instances of a single humpback pod containing more than 50 individual animals! The ‘Not So Regulars’ A short list of other cetaceans which we…
- [South African Expedition 2023](https://oceansaroundus.com/south-african-expedition-2023/): Cape Town and Sardine Run Expedition: Part 1 During May and June 2023, we welcomed our first groups to South Africa for what was a very successful first season! This expedition proved to be an underwater photography paradise and bucket list destination (with incredible diversity) for any ocean lover and set the tone for coming seasons. Cape Peninsula week – Just the beginning  After arrival our first guests received a welcome from our friends at the dive center and got to work on the plan/logistics for the first few days of the first week, which would all take place in…

## Pages

- [SARDINE RUN SOUTH AFRICA](https://oceansaroundus.com/southafrica/sardine-run-south-africa/): SARDINE RUN – SOUTH AFRICA The Greatest Hunt on Earth Experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena on an adventure you will never forget – Each year, South Africa’s Wild Coast hosts the legendary Sardine Run, a breathtaking migration of billions of sardines that attracts an unparalleled gathering of oceanic predators. Dolphins herding shimmering bait balls, sharks surging through the chaos, gannets diving like missiles from above, and whales feasting on the dense balls of fish… Sardine Run Expedition 17 – 24 May 2026 24 – 31 May 2026 7 Nights / 6 Sea days 👉 Contact Us For Availibity /…
- [Gallery](https://oceansaroundus.com/gallery/): Orcas & Humpbacks Swim with orcas and humpback whales in Norway and enjoy northern lights at night Epic Cape Town Explore kelp forests, swim with sealions, sharks, sunfish and more. Sardine Run Sharks, whales, dolphins, birds and more – Join the legendary Sardine Run in South Africa. Freediving Courses and training for all levels. Be prepared for your next expedition Gallery Available as archive quality prints – follow the links for more information… South African Expeditions See More… See More… Norwegian Expeditions See more… See More… Video Click on the playlist icon (top right corner) to see more… Instagram The…
- [Go Diving](https://oceansaroundus.com/go-diving/): Go Back Up
- [Orcas And Humpbacks Whales](https://oceansaroundus.com/orcas-and-humpbacks-whales/): Freedive With Orcas & Humpback Whales See these magnificent animals in their natural environment during one of the greatest natural events in our worlds oceans. All while living on an exclusive sail yacht in one of the most beautiful places on earth…  A Life Changing Experience… We start early every morning as we set out to find orca and humpback whales which allows the opportunity to dive with. During these hours you could potentially already encounter several pods on the way as they set out to start feeding on herring in the fjords that line the coast. Adhering to strict…
- [South Africa](https://oceansaroundus.com/southafrica/): SOUTH AFRICAN EXPEDITIONS CAPE PENINSULA & SARDINE RUN The Agulhas Current drives down the East coast of Southern Africa, bringing warm water from the tropics, while on the West coast, cold, nutrient-rich upwelled water drifts northward. The oceans around Southern Africa hosts over 12 000 species of marine plants and animals making it one of the most diverse coastlines in the world bursting with colour and life. Option 1 Cape Peninsula and Sardine Run Expedition 2026 10 May – 24 May 2026 consisting of two sections; 10 – 17 May 2026 (part 1 – Cape Peninsula) 17 – 24 May…
- [Oceans Around Us](https://oceansaroundus.com/): Orcas & Humpbacks Swim with orcas and humpback whales in Norway and enjoy northern lights at night Epic Cape Town Explore kelp forests, swim with sealions, sharks, sunfish and more. Sardine Run Sharks, whales, dolphins, birds and more – Join the legendary Sardine Run in South Africa. Freediving Courses and training for all levels. Be prepared for your next expedition Ethical Small Group Adventures With over two decades of experience, we focus on ethical and education based experiences of the highest quality. Unique Experiences With Likeminded People We offer tailormade experiences for people with a passion for the ocean. A…
- [Our Benefits](https://oceansaroundus.com/our-benefits/): Director’s welcoming word We seek adventure where others only dream. We are bound together by our love of the underwater world and our desire to protect it. We Are Strong At 0%Surfing 0%Kayaking 0%Parasailing 0%Kitesurfing Our Gallery View More “Summer is a joyful season, the one that is absolutely perfect for traveling, falling in love and of course for diving! Book the best tour and find the perfect diving spot with the help of professional instructors! Thanks a lot for this amazing experience!” Simon Lee “No matter how far you have to travel to try it, diving is absolutely worth…
- [About Us](https://oceansaroundus.com/about-us/): Oceans Around Us was created by Jacques de Vos as a hub for different Expeditions and projects he is involved with, as well as those he supports. Expeditions, Research & Conservation Jacques is the founder and owner of Arctic Freediving which offers guests joining their expeditions the opportunity to experience orcas and humpback whales underwater in their natural environment. During his time in Norway, Jacques has been instrumental in setting the standard for an ethical and education based approach to these expeditions and along with his Norwegian partners have actively lobbied at a government level for regulations and better practices…
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