The Sardine Run is an annual phenomenon dubbed the Greatest Shoal on Earth by the BBC. Large shoals of these little silver fish, more commonly known as the Natal Sardine, move eastwards, up the Wild Coast on the East Coast of South Africa. These fish take advantage of the cooler water on the Continental Shelf that occurs seasonally as a narrow band between the coast and the warm southward flowing Agulhas Current. The favourable cooler conditions are only temporary and many predators in the form of dolphins, sharks, game fish, whales, birds and sometimes even seals, attack the shoal from all sides and gorge themselves on this abundant supply of food.

This attack from all angles forces the sardines to form a bait ball just below the surface in an attempt to protect themselves from these predators, offering the ideal way to view this remarkable occurrence up close. Whether you are a seasoned scuba diver, snorkeler or adrenaline junkie viewing from the boat, Port st Johns is ideally situated to offer you the best chance of viewing this spectacular annual event.