Of all the species on the planet, the Great White shark has undoubtedly achieved a level of evolutionary perfection.. it has remained unchanged for 300 million years. In recent decades, sharks have become a persecuted and threatened species, and man has endangered this magnificent creature’s existence. Today, through conservation and education, this misaligned image is changing. The Festival of the Great White Shark is a celebration of this change and will create the opportunity for the world to come together, to Gansbaai to the Great White Shark Capital of the World.

To stimulate the Gansbaai economy by encouraging sustainable eco-tourism and through the Great White Shark Festival, drawing attention to this remarkable species.
Through education, information and the celebration, change the image of sharks from threat and persecution to one of admiration and respect.
To create a Festival that will uplift the local communities, businesses and tourism through the association with the Great White Shark.
To market the Great White Shark Festival and Gansbaai as a unique eco-destination and tourist attraction, regionally, nationally and internationally.

Maximize the interest in shark viewing and cage diving to educate the public and conserve this and other marine species.
Maximize the potential of the shark viewing and cage diving industry to attract regional, national and international visitors for a longer period with a view to increasing tourism spend in this rural area.
Use media, technology and informative presentations to educate and entertain the public and thus ensure sustainable eco-tourism.
Establish a scientific centre for the study of marine creatures and specifically the Great White Shark.

Offer a fresh, entertaining, innovative festival to engage families, business entrepreneurs, scientists and the general public in the appreciation of the shark and other marine mammals.
To educate the public about the Great White and other sharks as a creature to be respected and understood, and not irrationally feared.
Connect the shark viewing and diving industry behind a single focus to promote the industry and sustainable tourism opportunities it offers.
To Involve all stakeholders in the region and spread economic benefits to disadvantaged areas.
Transfer knowledge and life skills to incorporate all communities in this industry.

• The Great White Shark Festival will be held during the CTRU strategically identified period of May – September to create a tourism event for this area.
• Central to the Festival will be a giant screen on a podium as the central focal point where documentaries and footage from all participating shark boats will be shown.
• Celebrities and scientists will be invited to appear on the podium live or via video feed to the podium screen.
• An indoor shark museum and research facility will display all the history and developments in the industry, including the latest scientific findings.
• Entertainment, refreshments, innovative transport and promotions will add to the festivity of the event.

An Advisory Board of Directors has been established to provide a high level of expertise and influence to assist the organising committee with strategic planning.

The management of the festival (executive organising committee) is committed to ensure representation of all our communities.

• To accomplish education, awareness and protection
• To create a mini Indaba where local businesses can introduce their product and generate business into the local area. One day to be set aside exclusively for local regional and international tour operators to attend the White shark Festival to gather material and packages
• To generate employment for the local community and eco tourism industry
• To attract international scientists and shark enthusiasts as well as our target market
• To encourage research to the benefit of the shark and the shark viewing industry