Sardine Run 2026
Dates to be confirmed
End of june - beginning july 2026
What is the Sardine Run?
Every winter billions of sardines migrate north along South Africa’s Wild Coast. This natural event triggers one of the most spectacular wildlife phenomena on the planet. Dolphins, sharks, whales and seabirds work together to herd the sardines into dense bait balls. Creating explosive feeding frenzies near the surface.
The Sardine Run is not a scripted experience. It is a true ocean safari:
- Raw
- Unpredictable
- Entirely driven by nature
Some days deliver intense action within minutes while others require patience, scanning the horizon and following the signs.
How the trip works
This expedition is operated by ScubaCo on South Africa’s Wild Coast. Each day fast RIB boats head offshore to search for marine activity such as diving birds, dolphins herding fish or surface disturbances that indicate a bait ball forming.
Trips are multi-day packages and typically include accommodation, meals, experienced skippers and dive masters, and daily boat excursions focused on the Sardine Run. Sea conditions can be challenging and flexibility is essential.
👉 All bookings, logistics and payments are handled directly through ScubaCo.
My role - Photography support
During Sardine Run 2026, I’ll be on the photography boat, supporting divers and photographers throughout the expedition.
My role is to:
- Share practical photography advice for fast-moving, surface-based encounters
- Help with preparation, gear choices and what to expect
- Support in-water interactions and decision-making together with the local guides
- Act as an added resource on the boat for photographers who want to get the most out of the experience
I am not a tour guide or trip organizer.
All trip bookings remain with ScubaCo.
What to expect as a photographer
- Most encounters happen near the surface
- Action can develop and disappear quickly
- Cooler water temperatures are common
- Dynamic conditions are part of the experience
- Fast, manageable camera setups often work best
This is an intense and demanding environment — but also one of the most rewarding wildlife photography experiences available.
Dates & bookings
📅 Dates for my participation are still to be confirmed.
This page will be updated once those dates are finalized.
👉 To join the expedition, bookings must be made directly via ScubaCo’s website by mentioning "Kristof Goovaerts"
