About Marine Dynamics
Our Story
Owner and conservationist Wilfred Chivell was awarded the first whale watching permit in Gansbaai and started Dyer Island Cruises in 2000. Initially he handled all aspects of the business himself, including taking reservations. In 2005 he purchased Marine Dynamics, an existing shark cage diving company and started building a new vision determined to include research and conservation objectives, and advocate for the marine species he loves. Wilfred started the Dyer Island Conservation Trust in 2006 when he began the penguin nest project and needed to raise much needed funding. The Trust has evolved to encompass many projects that address the environmental needs within the area with Marine Dynamics the operational platform providing critical support. Wilfred is a diver, and in his travels, he visits marine safari operations and conservation projects, growing in knowledge and inspiring others. Marine Dynamics is recognised internationally through responsible tourism awards and referenced in case studies.
Why Choose Marine Dynamics
Join us aboard Marine Dynamics, where our crew of dedicated shark enthusiasts, including five seasoned marine biologists and a skilled skipper, are committed to championing shark conservation and education. Through daily interactions and ongoing research endeavours, and structured marine education initiatives, we strive to deepen our understanding of sharks and their ecosystems. Meet the passionate individuals who are at the forefront of our mission to protect these magnificent creatures.
Explore with our marine biologists at Marine Dynamics as we gather essential data on Great White Sharks and their habitat. Daily, we record vital information like shark sexing, sizing, and marking, along with monitoring environmental parameters. Using our custom-built boats, Slashfin and Whale Whisperer, we strive to capture invaluable data through photography and direct observations, thus contributing significantly to the development and maintenance of a comprehensive shark research database.
Our conservation and education projects engage schools and volunteers globally, focusing on initiatives such as African Penguin conservation on Dyer Island and marine anti-litter campaigns. Volunteers participate in various projects, including beach clean-ups and establishing penguin nests on Dyer Island. These efforts underscore our commitment to addressing environmental challenges and promoting marine conservation.
Shark populations worldwide face increasing threats, necessitating further research to comprehend their behaviour and movement patterns. Education is central to our mission, fostering understanding and appreciation of sharks through shark cage diving excursions. By supporting ocean sustainability and coastal ecosystems, we strive to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
Experience the Best of Marine Dynamics
Marine Dynamics Tourism Hub
Marine Dynamics Shark Cage Diving
The Great White House
Marine Dynamics Marine Big 5 Whale-watching Tours
Marine Dynamics also offers year-round Marine Big 5 Tours. Highlights include southern right whale watching from June to November, sightings of humpback and Bryde’s whales as well as dolphins, spotting endangered African Penguins on Dyer Island, and thousands of Cape fur seals at Geyser Rock.
Marine Dynamics Academy
Your Choice Makes a Difference
A journey filled with passion
Whale watching company, Dyer Island Cruises established
Wilfred Chivell is awarded the first whale watching permit in the Kleinbaai area
Marine Dynamics Is Established
Wilfred Chivell purchases Marine Dynamics and employs its first marine biologist
Dyer Island Conservation Trust Established
The establishment of the non-profit organisation stemmed from the endangered African penguin nest project and currently champions research, conservation and education
International Marine Volunteers (Marine Dynamics Academy)
Our voluntourism project is established attracting students from across the globe that support the ecotourism and conservation projects
Dyer Island Conservation Trust Established
The establishment of the non-profit organisation stemmed from the endangered African penguin nest project and currently champions research, conservation and education
International Marine Volunteers (Marine Dynamics Academy)
Our voluntourism project is established attracting students from across the globe that support the ecotourism and conservation projects
Hosting Of Penguin Conferences
Introducing a new boat & conservation efforts
Introducing Slashfin, our latest custom-designed vessel. Alongside, we’re pioneering fresh conservation strides, from hosting the first African Marine Mammal Colloquium, starting a fishing line bin project in Gansbaai and our Marine biologist Alison Towner, received a permit for tagging.
White Shark Population Study Released
The African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary Opens
Introducing Dream Catcher
Addition of New Internship
The Marine Dynamics Academy adds a Scientific Skills-based Internship programme.
Marine Pollution Addressed With Project Storm
Catchment nets designed to minimise ocean bound waste established in Gansbaai.
Marine Dynamics Partners In Saudi Arabia
Marine Dynamics partners with 17sixty in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to establish shark cage diving and marine experiences in the Red Sea
Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium
Dont take our word for it
Book your adventure of lifetime
Conservation Partners
Dyer Island Conservation Trust
African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary
Department: Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Cape Nature
Overstrand Municipality
Plastics SA
Tourism Partners
Fair Trade Tourism
SATSA
Cape Town Tourism
Cape Country Routes
Gansbaai Tourism
