The 5 biggest sharks in Cape Town

Cape Town’s coastal waters are home to an astonishing array of marine life, and few animals inspire as much awe as sharks. 

Sharks play a vital role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. In the nutrient-rich waters of the Western Cape, several large shark species glide through kelp forests, offshore reefs, and deep channels. Here are five of the biggest sharks found around Cape Town.

Great White Shark

While sightings around the shark cage diving boats have decreased in recent years, the Great White Shark still holds a presence in Cape Town’s offshore waters. 

Reaching lengths of up to 6 meters, these apex predators are built for long-distance migration and are known to patrol coastal seal colonies like Seal Island in False Bay. 

Their presence reflects a delicate ecological balance and a need for oceanic health. Conservation efforts continue to monitor their movements and protect their habitat.

Broadnose Sevengill Shark

This prehistoric-looking shark is a regular visitor to False Bay and can grow up to 3 meters in length. With seven gill slits instead of the usual five, the Broadnose Sevengill is a fascinating reminder of shark evolution that can often be witnessed when shark cage diving.

These sharks are often seen in the protected waters near Miller’s Point, where divers have the unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat, at Seal Island and around the shark cage diving boats in winter. They feed on fish, rays, and even other sharks, playing an important role in the balance of marine life.

Mako Shark

Known as the fastest shark in the ocean, the Shortfin Mako is a sleek and powerful species that can reach up to 4 meters in length. 

Found further offshore, particularly in warmer waters along the Agulhas Current, Mako sharks occasionally venture into Cape Town’s waters during their extensive migratory journeys. 

With striking metallic blue colouring and streamlined bodies, Makos are marvels of hydrodynamic design.

Blue Shark
Elegant and slender, the Blue Shark is a pelagic species that roams the deep open ocean. These sharks can grow to over 3 meters and are occasionally spotted off the Cape Point coastline. 

They travel in search of squid and small fish, and their long pectoral fins and bright blue hue make them one of the most visually striking sharks in the region. Though rarely seen by the casual observer, they are an essential part of the high-seas food chain.

Ragged-Tooth Shark (Sand Tiger Shark)
Although more commonly seen along the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coasts, Ragged-Tooth Sharks (also known locally as “raggies”) occasionally make their way into Cape Town’s waters. 

These sharks, reaching up to 3.5 meters, are slow-moving and often inhabit rocky reefs and wrecks. Their distinctive teeth and calm demeanour make them a favourite among scuba divers. Despite their formidable appearance, they are typically docile toward humans.

Final thoughts

Cape Town’s waters are a sanctuary for these extraordinary animals. As ambassadors of the ocean, sharks remind us of the complexity and majesty of marine life. 

Respectful observation, research, and conservation mean that future generations can also experience the wonder of encountering these giants of the deep.