Sharks – The Stars of Protea Banks

Bull sharks are the most consistent residents, patrolling depths of 30–40 metres from November through May. They are powerful but calm, often cruising slowly against the current. Their tolerance for both salt and brackish water allows them to range far up river mouths, yet Protea Banks offers a pure-ocean setting where they appear in excellent condition and natural behaviour.

Bull Sharks (Zambezi)

The tiger shark, identifiable by its vertical stripes and squared-off snout, is the apex visitor of summer. At 3–4 metres long, these sharks inspire awe rather than fear. Divers observing them at Protea Banks often note deliberate, almost regal movement patterns as they inspect the reef edges. They feed primarily on fish and rays, using powerful jaws to crush shells and carapaces.

Tiger Sharks

From January to March, vast schools of scalloped hammerheads glide through the blue above the Southern Pinnacles. Their fluid synchrony—hundreds moving as one—creates one of the ocean’s great natural spectacles. Scientists believe they gather here for navigation and possibly for temperature regulation during migration. Encounters depend on luck, light, and calm observation; hammerheads shy away from noise and rapid movement.

Hammerhead Sharks

Winter transforms the Northern Pinnacles into a sanctuary for ragged-tooth sharks (sand tigers). These prehistoric-looking fish congregate in caves for mating, hovering almost motionless in the shadows. Their tolerance of divers makes them ideal subjects for extended observation. Because of this predictable aggregation, the species has become a flagship for conservation awareness along South Africa’s coast.

Ragged-Tooth Sharks

Fast and inquisitive, oceanic blacktips add excitement to every dive. They thrive in mid-water and often appear during safety stops. Duskies, similar in size but darker, cruise deeper along the reef slopes. Both species hunt schooling baitfish and form part of the daily rhythm that defines Protea Banks.

Oceanic Blacktips & Dusky Sharks

Beyond sharks, the reef hosts a diverse array of rays—graceful bottom-dwellers and open-water giants alike.

• Manta Rays: Occasionally seen gliding effortlessly near the surface, feeding on plankton concentrated by currents. Their wingspans can exceed 4 metres.

• Spotted Eagle Rays: Travel in small groups along sandy gullies, recognised by their distinctive white-spotted backs.

• Bluespotted Stingrays & Butterfly Rays: Common across the reef floor, often half-buried in sand waiting for crustaceans.

• Devil Rays: Agile mid-water swimmers performing occasional leaps at the surface.

Ray sightings are especially common in summer when plankton density rises. Their movements also signal changing current layers that divers can use to gauge drift intensity.

Rays and Skates

Protea Banks’ position along the Agulhas Current draws enormous schools of pelagic fish. Barracuda, yellowtail, kingfish, amberjack, and tuna patrol the blue water, pursued by sharks and dolphins. Schools of bonito and sardines move in shimmering masses, forming the foundation for seasonal feeding frenzies. During the winter Sardine Run, these fish migrate northward, shadowed by predators that briefly turn the entire coastline into a moving banquet. Even outside that event, smaller sardine shoals and bait balls appear frequently around the reef.

Pelagic Game Fish

Although cooler currents limit extensive coral growth, Protea Banks still supports patches of soft corals, sponges, and ascidians clinging to the reef ridges. These create colourful micro-habitats for nudibranchs, shrimps, feather stars, and tube worms. Photographers who look beyond the big animals find intricate patterns of life in miniature—the slow unfurling of a feather duster worm, or the vibrant hues of a flatworm against yellow sponge. Macro life adds contrast to the pelagic drama and rewards patient observation.

Ecological Interactions and Food Web

Because of this biodiversity, Protea Banks falls within the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area, designated to curb destructive fishing practices. Regulations limit catch sizes, prohibit shark finning, and control boat anchoring. Local operators such as African Dive Adventures work closely with researchers and conservationists to monitor species health. Diver-submitted photographs assist tagging and identification programs, particularly for tiger and bull sharks. The tourism revenue generated by shark diving gives economic value to living predators, transforming public perception from fear to stewardship.

Conservation Significance

Divers share responsibility for maintaining harmony within this ecosystem. Follow these best practices during interactions:

• Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid touching the reef.

• Do not chase or corner marine animals.

• Keep a respectful distance; let wildlife approach naturally.

• Use strobes carefully to prevent distress to light-sensitive creatures.

• Avoid feeding fish or leaving any waste in the ocean.

Responsible behaviour ensures minimal stress to marine inhabitants and preserves the authenticity of encounters for future visitors.

Photography Opportunities

As one of the original operators exploring Protea Banks, African Dive Adventures continues to facilitate research and eco-tourism initiatives. Their staff record species sightings, support tagging projects, and educate divers on local ecology during briefings. By integrating science, tourism, and conservation, they help ensure Protea Banks remains a thriving marine sanctuary rather than an exploited resource.

The Role of African Dive Adventures

Despite protection, challenges persist—illegal fishing, pollution, and climate-driven current shifts all pose risks. Rising sea temperatures may alter shark migration timing and coral resilience. Continued community engagement and adaptive management are essential to sustain biodiversity. Divers play a crucial role by supporting legitimate operators, reporting illegal activity, and advocating for marine protection beyond South Africa’s borders.