Guadalupe Cage Diving Schedule
Great White Sharks Expeditions
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Search Words: Great White Shark Diving Great White Cage Diving Guadalupe Island Isle of Guadalupe Mexico Great White Adventures Tour Operators Prison Beach Twin Canyon Discovery Bay Farallon Islands California Great White Shark Encounters Carcharodon carcharias Shark Anatomy and Physiology
Expedition Information
The Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is the one shark that seems to strike fear and terror in many people. Also called the White Pointer, White Death, White Shark and other names, this is the largest flesh eating shark in the ocean today. Despite being a true apex predator with few, if any natural enemies in the ocean, the Great White Shark is very vulnerable to over-fishing and today it is generally recognized as an endangered species. Indeed, the species is officially protected in South Africa, Australia, Maldives and the United States.
The island of Guadalupe lies some 160 miles off the coast off Baja California and over 200 miles southwest of San Diego in open ocean water that has over 100 feet of visibility. The temperature averages 65 to 70 degrees F. Choose from two diving vessels, the dive boat "Searcher" or try Luxury Cage Diving - aboard the dive boat "Solmar V".
Guadalupe Island, it's simply Shark Diver Heaven!
- Option 1 - Cage Diving Aboard the Boat Searcher
- Option 2 - Luxury
Cage Diving Aboard the Solmar V
- Trip Planning
- Physical Requirements
- What to Bring
- Underwater Photography & Videography
- Tour Operator
- Shark Related Information
Option One
Aboard the Diver Boat: Searcher
2009 Shark Cage Diving Schedule
5 Day Trip: (Rate: US$2,995)
On these spectacular five day expeditions, you will find yourself on
board the 95' Searcher, one of San Diego's finest long range diving vessels.
The Searcher boasts gourmet dining and excellent live-aboard accommodations!
The vessel is 95ft long and 24ft wide. The salon seats 30 for meals and
indoor relaxation. Twelve PRIVATE cabins that can sleep two or more
comfortably. Each cabin has a sink, mirror, 110v outlet, and storage
shelves. Linens, blankets and pillows are provided. All indoor areas are
air-conditioned. There are four restrooms, two with showers, plus an on deck
shower.
Trip - 5 days and 4 nights accommodations on the Searcher w/gourmet meals and beverages (including snacks, beer and wine), 3 full days of cage diving (16 divers max, diving air, weights and weight belts) at Guadalupe Island w/two 4-diver cages and one 2-diver submersible cage, Sport fishing: fishing tackle, bait and permits (If Mexican regulations do not change). Searcher is equipped for up to 32 guests, but offer limited load trips only for up to 16 divers.
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Available Dates: Departing Ensenada via San Diego aboard the MV Searcher from October 21 through November 24, 2009. First half shark season provides longer days and highest number of sightings.
All trips require reservations
to reserve your spot on any of these
expeditions. By contacting us through our
online form we can see if your requested date is available.
Since available dates can change without notice, please verify your
trip selection before making any airfare or accommodation
arrangements. |
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| 2009
5 Day Trip (16 max) DAN Diving Insurance is highly recommended for all divers... |
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| Oct | 21, 26, 31 |
| Nov | 5, 10, 15, 20 |
| Sold out dates will be removed from the listing above. Trips aboard the Solmar V maybe still available, click here to view available dates. | |
Does Not Include:
Park visitor fees of US$4.00 -12.00 per day
Possible fuel surcharge
Souvenirs, and gratuities for the crew
(All prices subject to change...)
Though the tour operator has a very successful expedition record, they cannot guarantee a Great White Shark encounter on every trip. It would be irresponsible to claim some sort of control over Mother Nature. In reality, Great White Sharks are wild animals that have their own schedules and priorities. They live in an extraordinary environment that at times, does not cooperate according to our schedules. Weather is always an important factor when operating offshore. The tour operator does however, promise to take you to the best place at the best time and provide you the best opportunity to encounter a Great White Shark.
Weather cancellations can and do occur. The tour operator does not provide a refund due to weather cancellation. Their policy is to reschedule your trip during the current season or the following year and is an industry-wide standard.
Disclaimer: The tour operator reserves the right to make whatever changes in the trip that circumstances dictate. Including cancellations due to weather, mechanical failure, acts of god, etc.
NOTE: The Searcher departs directly from Fishermen's Landing San Diego, California at 11:00 AM, returning approximately 5:00 PM. Trips run mid August through mid December (peak shark season). Fishermen's Landing is only 5 minutes from San Diego Airport (SAN). The boat operator doesn't provide shore-side accommodations, but there are many hotels in the area; let us know if you need assist in hotel recommendations at time of booking. View Map
The Searcher & Cages
The Searcher is used exclusively for all trips to Guadalupe. The Searcher is far superior in all aspects. Her size, speed, stability and amenities are unsurpassed. The vessel is 95ft long and 24ft wide. The salon seats 30 for meals and indoor relaxation. Twelve private cabins sleep two or more comfortably. Each cabin has a sink, mirror, 110v outlet, and storage shelves. Linens, blankets and pillows are provided. All indoor areas are air-conditioned.
There are four restrooms, two with showers, plus an on deck shower. When you combine the comfortable accommodations, courteous and professional crew, state-of-the-art electronics and equipment, and the experience of captain Art Taylor and their expedition leaders, you've got the ingredients for the Great White Adventure of a lifetime.
Submersible Cage - The submersible cage was introduced by Great White Adventures in 2004 and allows divers to be suspended 20 feet below the surface which provides a completely new aspect to their diving experience.
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| Cage 1 | Cage 2 | Cage 3 | Cage 4 | Cage 5 |
The Submersible cage allows divers to descend a little further into the world of the White Shark. Being only another 20 feet below the surface provides a completely new aspect to your diving experience. The Submersible cage allows GWA safety divers to escort clients below the surface and safely into the Sharks world. The divers view from this depth are a photographers dream come true. For the Shark Fan, being suspended out in the blue with White Sharks appearing from below as well as from above is an experience that you will never ever forget.
These spectacular dives are for certified divers only and are always escorted by a GWA safety diver. GWA safety divers will only escort one client/diver at a time down to depth and remain at depth for 20 minutes. All certified divers that wish to make this journey are rotated as many times as conditions will allow. The response from divers has been phenomenal and everyone has been overwhelmed by the experience. Professional as well as amateur photographers are raving about the incredible shots and different angles that have been captured during these dives.
So when you are trying to choose which operator you would like to dive with remember GWA is the leader in Safety and Technology and they are the only company that uses this submersible cage system.
Option Two
Luxury Cage Diving - Aboard the Dive Boat:
Solmar V
2009 Shark Cage Diving Schedule
5 Day Trip: US$3,195 pp
Includes: One night hotel stay in San Diego (first Day of trip only),
R/T transfer to Ensenada, accommodations on the Solmar V w/gourmet meals and
beverages (including snacks, beer and wine), multiple days of cage
diving (16 divers max, diving air, weights and weight belts) at Guadalupe
Island w/ two 4 diver cages and one 2 diver submersible cage, Sport fishing:
fishing tackle, bait and permits (If Mexican regulations do not
change). Solmar V is equipped for up to 22 divers for 8 days, but offer
limited load trips up to 16 divers.
DAN Diving Insurance (accident &
trip protection) is highly recommended
for all divers...
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Available Dates: Trips run August through October (5 day trips) First half shark season provides longer days and highest number of sightings. All trips require reservations to reserve your spot on any of these expeditions. By contacting us through our online form we can see if your requested date is available. Since available dates can change without notice, please verify your trip selection before making any airfare or accommodation arrangements. Referrer Name: Eco-Photo Explorers |
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| 2009 5 Day Trip
(16 max) DAN Diving Insurance is highly recommended for all divers... |
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| Aug | 2, 12, 17, 22 |
| Sept | 13, 23, 28 |
| Oct | 3, 8 |
| Sold out dates will be removed from the listing above. Trips aboard the Searcher maybe still available, click here to view available dates. | |
NOTE: Day ONE is in San Diego
hotel w/ transfer to Ensenada on day
TWO.
Example (6 day trip): Day 1; you need to arrive in San Diego and
stay over in your hotel. Day 2; the
luxury tour bus will pick everyone
up at the hotel at 8:00 am in the
morning and take you to Ensenada
where you will board the Solmar V.
The Solmar V will depart Ensenada at
noon. You will arrive at Guadalupe
on Day 3 in the morning and dive all
day, Day 4 at Guadalupe diving all
day. Day 5 at Guadalupe diving all
day and departing Guadalupe in the
evening just after dinner. Day 6
arrive in Ensenada approximately
2:00 pm, board bus and return to San
Diego approximately 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
Please allow a very generous flight
cushion for making connections out
of San Diego. We recommend staying
another night in San Diego to be
safe.
A deposit of 50% of the selected trip cost is required to reserve your spot on any of these expeditions.
Does Not Include:
Mexican visitor visa US$25.00
Park visitor fees of US$4.00 -12.00 per day
Possible fuel surcharge
Souvenirs, and gratuities for the crew
(All prices subject to change...)
Though our tour operator has a very successful expedition record, they cannot guarantee a Great White Shark encounter on every trip. It would be irresponsible to claim some sort of control over Mother Nature. In reality, Great White Sharks are wild animals that have their own schedules and priorities. They live in an extraordinary environment that at times, does not cooperate according to our schedules. Weather is always an important factor when operating offshore. The tour operator does however, promise to take you to the best place at the best time and provide you the best opportunity to encounter a Great White Shark.
About the Solmar V
The Solmar V travels with a crew of 10 and can accommodate up to 22 divers.
You will not see any dormitory-style rooms aboard the Solmar V,
luxury and comfort are their specialties - their vessel was specifically
designed with your comfort in mind. Each mahogany-detailed stateroom
features air conditioning with individual controls, a private head, sink and
shower and a TV/DVD for your enjoyment. The dive deck is very spacious and
designed for flow and ease of use, even with a full load. The boats
custom-built double swim step gets rave reviews from all their guests, also
user-friendly. The interior of the Solmar V is outfitted in brass, rich
mahogany, granite table tops and is completely carpeted - it's a gracious
and beautiful boat. The salon comfortably seats all of their guests and
offers a large-screen HDTV, VCR, DVD player and stereo system.
The crew has been working together aboard the Solmar V for years, which
makes a difference - their seamless service is always greatly appreciated by
their guests. Their chef, takes great pride in the 3 gourmet meals he serves
daily. Trust us, you will not go hungry aboard the Solmar V!
Morning and afternoon snacks, beer, wine and sodas are all included in the price of your trip. Divemasters are provided by and trained by Amigos del Mar dive store in Cabo San Lucas, serving the Los Cabos area for over 23 years. Safety is a priority aboard the Solmar V, reflected in the professionalism of both the boat and dive crews. Side scanning sonar, multiple radar systems and the most modern electronic marine technology package provide an excellent compliment to their experienced crew. Twin compressors, with cascade storage for fast filling, provide guests with an endless air supply and quick fills between dives. Two main engines and three full-time generators power the Solmar V to a top cruising speed of 11 knots. Two freshwater makers produce 1,600 gallons per day, more than adequate for their passenger capacity.
You may want to check it out!!
Trip Planning
Physical Requirements - Although being a certified diver is a plus, it is not required. The Tour Operator does recommend completing a Discover Scuba introductory course if you are not certified. You must be at least 13 years of age to cage dive. All minors must be certified and accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you wish to cage dive, some basic physical abilities are required. You, as a diver should be able to enter and exit the cages on your own. Example: Can you easily climb in and out of a swimming pool without the use of stairs or a ladder? You should be in reasonably physically fit condition. If you have existing conditions such as cardio pulmonary disease or other conditions or illness that require medication and or frequent access to medical facilities you may not be eligible to participate in these activities. Some physician approval may be required for other conditions such as diabetes, asthma etc. The maximum weight limit for cage diving is 250 lbs. If you weigh more than 250 lbs and are physically fit, then arrangements can be made to accommodate you.
What to Bring
- Dive Equipment Required
(To be provided by customer)
Mask, Wet suit (7mm optimum), Hood, Boots, Gloves, Weight belt (if not standard size), Spares - Do Not Bring
Fins, BCs, Tanks, Regulators, Weights, Spear guns - Important Items/Clothing to Bring
Sunscreen, Towel, Warm jacket, Sunglasses, Hat
Underwater Photography & Videography
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Guadalupe provides the best underwater shots. The water visibility is generally excellent (70 -100+ feet). We have had many underwater photographers on our expeditions. All types of cameras and video cameras have been used, but smaller is better. Nikonos, Sea & Sea and Sea Life cameras are streamlined and easy to use in the cage. Housed SLR's, digital and video cameras are excellent as well. Sharks are large and come close to the cage, so a 15mm to 35mm lens is suggested. Many find a 20mm optimal. We recommend you leave your strobes at home. The sharks are found in clear and bright water and many photographers find strobes are unnecessary, but it's your choice to bring it or it home.
The leeward side of Guadalupe where we anchor, is usually blessed with clear sunny skies. During midday your first choice would be a fine-grained film (ASA 64-100). Before 9:00 am, after 3:00 pm or if the boat is anchored in a position where the island blocks the sun, you may wish to bump up your film speed a notch or two (ASA 200-400).
Tour Operator
Great White Adventures (GWA) is one of the best expedition groups you can travel with if you are planning to visit Guadalupe. GWA is an organization that promotes conservation and protection of the marine environment while providing adventurers with a rewarding and educational experience. Great White Adventures as well as Eco-Photo Explorers believe that education and enjoyment of our environment is the key to its protection. We all hope you will come away from your adventure with a new found respect and appreciation of the ocean and all of its inhabitants.
We have traveled with Great White Adventures on multiple trips and highly recommend their operation. GWA is slowly changing their name to "Shark Diving International (SDI)" because they are now providing shark diving trips that span the world. They have an unblemished safety record which is priority number one, an extremely professional and experienced crew, as well as having the best shark cages we have ever been in to date. You will not be disappointed.
- Great
White Adventures |
Shark Diving
International
Make sure you include our Referrer Name: Eco-Photo Explorers on all correspondence to Great White Adventures (GWA) or Shark Diving International (SDI).
Shark Related Information
- Great White Shark Information | Photo Gallery
- Expedition Field Notes: 2005 | 2002
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2005 Guadalupe White Shark Season Synopsis (pdf)
Courtesy: Great White Adventures/Shark Diving International - Guadalupe Video (courtesy: GWA) - 1.64 MB Real
- The Shark Foundation has been committed to the protection and research of sharks since 1997 and sees itself as the sharks' lobby.
- The ReefQuest Centre for Shark Research is dedicated to shark and ray conservation through its scientific research and public education programs.
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DAN Diving Insurance is |
Any questions not addressed in the above pages or in this website, should be
forwarded by email to Technical Support.
- http://www.ecophotoexplorers.com/contacts.asp?subject=Technical Support#form
