What you're actually paying for
Sardine Run pricing is usually quoted per package, built from a few core costs:
- Days at sea — the biggest single driver. More sea days means a higher chance of baitball action, and a higher price. Most serious packages include at least 4–6 sea days.
- Boat charter and crew — skipper, guide, fuel and surface support.
- Accommodation and meals — typically a lodge near the launch site, with all meals.
- Ground transfers — airport pickup and daily transfers.
- Group size — smaller boats (six guests) cost more per person than packed boats of ten or twelve, because you're buying space, positioning and a better experience.
What's usually not included
Watch for these so you can compare like with like:
- Flights to Mthatha (UTT) or Durban.
- Dive accident cover — most operators (including us) require you to hold your own (DAN Southern Africa or equivalent). It's quick and inexpensive to arrange.
- Equipment rental — bring your own where you can; rental is usually a per-day add-on.
- Gratuities, beverages and personal items.
Our pricing
Pelagic Frontier is R10,000 per person per day, all-inclusive, in fixed small groups of six. Our flagship is a 6-day expedition at R60,000, with 8-day and 10-day options for those who want to maximise their odds. That rate covers boat dives, beachside lodge accommodation, all meals, ground transfers, marine guide and safety crew, tanks, weights and daily briefings. You bring your own dive accident cover and core gear (rental available at R500/day). See the full inclusions and dated departures →
Why we sit at the premium end
We're built for photographers and serious divers: six guests per boat instead of twelve, fixed groups with no mid-trip swaps, and a crew whose entire focus is positioning you on the action. You're paying for space, time in the water and image quality — not a seat on a crowded boat.
How to budget the whole trip
Beyond the package, budget for: international/domestic flights, your own dive accident cover, any gear rental, travel insurance, gratuities, and a day or two either side for travel. A realistic all-in budget for a quality 6-day trip, flights included, depends heavily on where you're flying from.
Is it worth it?
The Sardine Run is a bucket-list event that runs for a few weeks a year and can't be replicated anywhere else. The honest framing: you're buying chances at one of nature's greatest spectacles, and more days buys more chances. Budget for the experience you actually want rather than the cheapest entry point. More on timing and odds in our best time to dive guide and FAQ.
See exactly what's included. View 2026 expeditions and pricing →