For those who need water to breathe

EXPERIENCE. PROTECT. EDUCATE.

cONSERVATION iNTERNSHIPS


Where passion becomes profession

Go Dive
Shark Program

Go Dive - Shark Program

Welcome to the Shark Program – an internship like no other! Cage dive into thrilling encounters with great white sharks, further your diving career, contribute to local conservation efforts, and explore different parts of South Africa. Join us for an unforgettable journey of adventure, education, conservation and, of course, sharks. 

See you in Mossel Bay soon.

– Go Dive Crew

sharks? scuba diving? i'm in!

Program Details

Mossel Bay is situated on the scenic Garden Route in the Western Cape of South Africa. It is well known for having one of the highest Great White Shark concentrations along the South African coastline and in the world.

But don’t worry – you can consider yourself one of the lucky few if you happen to see one on a dive.

shark-interns-mossel-bay

WHAT YOU'LL DO

What we offer as a program is a hands-on approach to working, not only with Great White Sharks alongside our partners at White Shark Africa, but also the many other species found in the area. 

We provide field experience teaching different techniques and methods related to our current projects. Our long-term projects include; White Shark Fin Identification (Population Dynamics), Nudibranch Dive Surveys, Species Identification and Ocean Literacy, and ORI Benthic Shark Tagging.

We have weekly shifts at the local Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (SAPREC), and run a variety of ongoing conservation projects such as coastal cleans & dives, community outreach, and sustainable fishing practices with our friends at Keep Fin Alive and Salt Life Fishing.

Mission

The Shark Program was designed to promote the conservation and understanding of local shark populations through immersive, hands-on experiences that combine adventure with education. Our program aims to cultivate exceptional diving professionals who are passionate about marine conservation, safety, and education.

i have no diving experience. am i qualified to participate?

Who should apply?

This program is open to anyone with a real interest in SCUBA diving, sharks, and the marine world. It is ideal for those who wish to be involved in something rewarding, educational, and overall enjoyable. Anyone studying biology, marine biology, zoology, oceanography, marine tourism, environmental conservation, animal husbandry, marine filming, recreational management, etc. will find the program particularly beneficial towards their goals. 

No prior diving experience is necessary; we welcome beginners and provide comprehensive training. 

During your Shark Program, you will  have the opportunity to achieve your NAUI Divemaster qualification. Should you not have the time to complete all of the required courses (three months), we do offer shorter time periods (one and two months) that also include several SCUBA courses and diving activities. 

This program was designed with your professional field experience and career goals in mind. We are constantly adjusting roles and requirements to suit our students individual needs and passions. 

I'm ready. let's do this

Duration & Prices

Each program starts on the 1st of the month. Select dates will be considered but may require additional accommodation fees. 

NAUI Dive Master

One Month Shark Program

$ 3200 USD

Includes Open Water SCUBA Diver and Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver courses.

Two Month Shark Program

$ 5750 USD

Includes Open Water SCUBA Diver, Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver, Rescue SCUBA Diver, and Master SCUBA Diver courses.

Three Month Shark Program

$ 7400 USD

Includes Open Water SCUBA Diver, Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver, Rescue SCUBA Diver, Master SCUBA Diver, Enriched Air (Nitrox), First Aid for Professional Divers, and Divemaster courses.

wHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM FEE?

Includes

Accommodation

Students will stay in self-catering dormitory style accommodation in central Mossel Bay. Twin Palms is located within easy walking distance to the dive center, shops, restaurants, and the harbor.

Gear and Course Material

All required SCUBA course material is provided along with full kits from our school gear. Students may bring personal gear if preferred.

Logged Sea Hours

We have digital logbooks ready for each student whether they use them for university to show the field experience they gained, or to log sea hours towards career goals.

Networking and Career Advisory

Throughout this program, students meet a network of marine professionals. Following completion of the program, students will be assisted with individual career needs.

Excludes

Flights

Neither international nor domestic flights are included in the Shark Program fee. Free travel advisory is provided upon request.

Insurance

Travel insurance is not provided, but it is recommended. DAN Insurance is not provided past the Open Water SCUBA Diver course, but it is a requirement to take part in the Shark Program.

Meals

Meals are not provided, however a meal catering plan can be arranged. Please request more info once you have been accepted to the program.

Tours

Weekend tours are optional and not included in the program fee. We assist with the scheduling and booking of tours.

We'd love to hear from you

Contact Us

We realise choosing an internship that is right for you is a major commitment and can be stressful. Let us help you through it! We are here to answer any questions. For a quick reply, please reach out to us on WhatsApp at the number listed below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I do not want to SCUBA, can I still participate in the program?

Unfortunately, this program is only for SCUBA participants.

What are the payment methods available?

We typically use PayPal for all international payments. We also accept international wire transfers.

When should I arrive/depart?

Each program starts on the 1st of the month and ends on the 27th. Students should arrive at George Airport on the 1st, and depart on the 27th.

Are the starting dates of the program flexible?

The program starts on the 1st and ends on the 27th of each month. We can accept you for time periods outside of these dates, but you will be responsible for additional accommodation fees.

Are accommodation and meals included in the program fee?

Accommodation is included in the program fee. Meals are not included. Meal catering plans can be arranged. Please enquire for further details on this option.

What airport should I fly into?

You will fly into George Airport (about 30 minutes from Mossel Bay) where a member of our team will be waiting to collect you.

Does the program run year-round?

Due to the dive centre's busy holiday season, the program does not run in December or January.