RODNEY FOX

GREAT WHITE SHARK EXPEDITION

INFORMATION – 2001/02 TOURS

This is the original Great White Experience, the real thing! This trip has been described as the ultimate adventure tour that Australia has to offer! "Rodney Fox Great White Shark Expeditions" have provided the world’s premium Great White Shark Experience, to film companies, photographers, researchers and adventurers, since soon after Rodney’s shark attack in 1963.

 

It is only in South Australia, that Rodney and Andrew Fox, provide these special live aboard tours that incomparably maximise your "Face to Face" opportunities with live Great White sharks. Our Special "Falie" 6 to 9 day adventures depart Adelaide and Port Lincoln, South Australia and head out to far offshore islands. Here are the breeding grounds for thousands of New Zealand Fur Seals and the rare Australian sea lion, the natural feeding ground for the Great White Shark.

 

Our Large expedition ship "Falie", provides the size, safety and unmatched facilities to work comfortably on the Great Southern Ocean, right through the cooler and newly recognised "High Activity Season". With us now experiencing more Great White Shark activity at this new time than ever before in our history, we now reliably provide the Greatest Great White Shark Encounter available anywhere!

 

The Expedition Tradition: We operate off the coast of South Australia, where Rodney was attacked in 1963. Soon after his attack, Rodney organised the first ever Great White Shark Filming Expedition, designed and built the first shark proof cages, to capture the first underwater footage and the first films ever made of live Great White Sharks.

 

The first film actually inspired Peter Gimbel to use Rodney’s expertise in finding the Great White, for his classic documentary "Blue Water White Death". This same task was again required of Rodney, producing the Great White for live sequences, in Steven Spielberg’s and Peter Benchley’s all time blockbuster shark movie, "JAWS". For more than 35 years, Rodney Fox has dedicated his life to making major film documentaries and research projects for organizations like National Geographic, The Cousteau Society, Disney and Universal Studios. It is acknowledged, that in some way, Rodney and has been involved with a majority of the world’s successful images and research on live Great White Sharks in the 20^th century.

 

Rodney’s son, Andrew has worked alongside his father since a young boy, and now leads most expeditions in the field. He has studied Great Whites with leading marine scientists and research organizations from all over the world during this time. These efforts have contributed to many field studies, with data and tagging data still collected on current expeditions. Current research includes a major tagging program, designed to unlock more of the Great Whites secrets. Such long term productivity by the Fox’s has contributed to much of the necessary public education, imagery and resulting admiration of this species, that has finally lead to the protection that the Great White now enjoys in countries around the world.

 

In 1976, just one year after the release of Jaws in the cinemas, Rodney lead the very first Cage Diving Expedition for a group of non professional divers to experience the thrill of the Great White Shark "first hand"! This first group of 4 divers was bought out by Carl Roessler, of "Sea and See Dive Travel". This launched the ultimate diving adventure and was widely recognised as the pinnacle for any divers career. This event continues in the very same tradition and spirit to this very day with Rodney and Andrew Fox, who strive to deliver this unforgettable, lifetime experience with this most ultimate and spectacular of sharks!

 

Modern Day Expeditions: Rodney and Andrew both normally lead and host all the special longer "Falie" tours, right from the welcome gathering provided the night before departure at "The Rodney Fox Shark Experience", Museum & Gift shop. Here amongst his unique collection of memorabilia and exhibits, most new expedition members first get to meet Rodney and hear his unique story telling style, which also makes for incomparable ambience, once on board the dive boat. On mixed group expeditions, along with various researchers, and regular shark lovers, we often also have film crews and professional photographers, documenting every unique adventure. There is the opportunity to really learn something, or just relax and enjoy. Rodney also films each adventure for you in his own unique style. Here on an original "Rodney Fox Great White Shark Expedition" you never just join on a standard cage diving tour, but the very most special shark experience possible.

 

We also provide shorter tours now to cater for those people with time restrictions or happen only to be in our country outside the recommended Prime Time "Falie Season" dates. These shorter 3 night/4 day tours on smaller vessels depart only from Port Lincoln, throughout the extended season (January to October). Rodney and Andrew do not normally host these dates, and this option does not include many of the features and advantages described below of the "Falie Tours". We also advise that this shorter program reduces potential access to Great Whites especially when coinciding with poor weather, and possibly elusive sharks!

 

Australian Expedition Advantages: South Australia is the only place in the world that provides all the wonderful advantages of a Live-aboard dive boats to experience Great White Sharks. By staying on location on our large comfortable vessel, there is always more time spent in direct contact with the sharks and no further daily transfer hassles, which are often subject to changing weather conditions and frustrating cancellations. Once on board, and saftly anchored, everything you need is available unpacked, on hand, and included in the package. This includes all food, drinks (inc. wine and beer) entertainment and accommodation. And you’re out there in the wild!

 

On "Falie" tours, departure right from Adelaide means less transfer hassles. We organize all people and equipment, transfers to and from the boat and your choice of accommodation in Glenelg, Adelaide. We then arrive on location, by sun up the morning after departure This travelling time gives you a chance to recover from your flight, familiarize yourself with the boat and allows the necessary time interval between diving and flying This is also a great time to prepare all your equipment for the big days ahead.

 

Rodney and Andrew have gained the unsurpassed experience, knowledge, ability, and opportunity to give you the adventure of a lifetime, and the very best "Great White Shark Experience" available anywhere! Following are listed further reasons why the majority of major shark films and prominent U/W photographs have been made in South Australia at the very same famous locations that we operate!

 

Cage Diving Advantages: All tours on Falie, have up to 12 full time diver positions available in our 3 surface cages at any time, so there is always more opportunity for all Divers to maximise contact with available Great Whites. Also we exclusively, lower a "bottom diving cage" down to mid water or right down to the ocean floor up to 40 –100 feet below. Only here can you readily witness the unforgettable sight of a great white sharks cruising along the bottom and then directly over your head in our clear waters. This is where you have seen those photos!

 

Larger Shark Advantages: In South Australia, you can you reliably view the awesome spectacle of "mature Great Whites", which are regularly often larger animals exceeding a true 14ft in length. (4metres) And occasionally up to and above a giant 18 ft.! (5-6metres)

 

Feeding Shark Advantages: Only here in South Australia is it possible to actually "feed Great Whites". All divers and photographers, witness spectacular, close up, toothy feeding views! All feeding is carefully monitored and controlled.

 

Clear Water Advantages: Viewing Sharks is far more exciting and unforgettable in Australia’s always-superior clearer water visibility. Since the beginning we have been the major destination choice, for serious underwater photographers that must capture, the clearest, best underwater Great White Shark images possible. You can view capture not only the closest sharks entire length, but often witness and film other sharks in background views!

 

Versatility Advantages: We cater for singles, couples and groups of various sizes and needs. This includes film, research and social groups, requiring either "part share" on existing dates, or separate full boat charters. Please enquire on various boats available privacy arrangements and Group Booking packages.

 

"Falie" Live-aboard Boat Advantages: It’s all about maximizing your time in contact with Great Whites and spending your whole adventure actually out there comfortably in the wild. Our Dive boat Falie takes us straight to our shark viewing locations and eventually back home to port overnight, with no further daily crossings. You only need to unpack once! The wildlife, sunrises and sunsets are all right there to enjoy with our group, around the clock. There are no extra transfers, accommodation, food, or entertainment costs once on board. We provide unlimited Scuba air fills and there are 12 cage spaces for the group, and then all the time you need to fully enjoy this experience of a lifetime!

 

We carry more special equipment and bait than any other operating vessel, and Falie provides you with much space and privacy, that you may need with one group, living out on the Southern Ocean. The tall ship rigging provides great view opportunities of the surroundings and unique and stunning camera angles. We shelter behind large offshore islands and explore these with the use of Falie’s sturdy and powerful tender boat for landing our Island shore parties. We encourage visiting the offshore Islands at any opportunity, to see the unique wildlife on these rugged outposts, including breeding seal and bird colonies.

 

Diver Qualification Required: Basic "Open Water" SCUBA certification is all that is needed here. This can often be arranged immediately before the tour if you arrive a few days early. Cage diving generally requires no fins to be worn, and BCD’s and snorkels are optional. It is physically a very undemanding diving situation. Also introductory Dives and supervised snorkelling also can often be provided by instructors on most "Falie" dates.

 

Age Limit: There is no age limit to join our expedition. The only restriction is that all Expedition Members under 18 y.o have the required forms of indemnity signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Fitness: all passengers would benefit from a level of fitness/flexibility to allow them to make the most of this adventure, which can involve tricky island landings, entry and exit from the dive cages, and even just manoeuvring though the ships stairways and bulkheads can be a little challenging at times. We will however be happy to assist any passenger with restricted movement when possible.

 

Non-Diver Prices: There is much to offer "Non Divers", who join us now on most trips. Non-Divers can also try a snorkel dive in the cages when space and conditions suit, or possibly even a supervised "Intro SCUBA Dive" with an instructor. (available some dates) We can place these "non divers" on at a 20% discounted rate (excluding Nat. Park fees) to normal priority diver passenger rates. This should appeal especially to full time specialist topside photographers, and Non-diving Partners accompanying divers on board, or those just wishing to be topside observers.

 

Features for "Non Divers". From 2002 we will also have a new (Last years was eaten!) underwater surveillance camera to scan for sharks, while looking from an on deck monitor. Much of the enjoyment of this adventure is provided from the spectacular topside viewing of Great Whites and the other unique wildlife action of the surrounding oceans and islands. There is much onboard socialising, spectacular coastal scenery, with island excursions, sunsets and on clear nights, unsurpassed magnificent views of the southern and intense centre stars of the Milky Way Galaxy. We also enjoy special guest speakers and prominent filmmaker/ photographers as extra story telling hosts on many tours throughout the year. (See Website for details.)

 

Bottom Diving: One special and exclusive feature of Rodney Fox Expeditions is our "bottom dives" where we gently lower cage divers down 15 to 30m (50 to 100 ft) to the bottom of the ocean floor. All participants must be "open water" qualified to participate in this treat. This operation is only done when conditions are suitable and our anchorage is over a depth of water shallow enough. Often we also lower a cage below the surface just to escape any surface wave chop that on certain days makes the surface cage diving less comfortable.

 

The bottom diving cage is attached to our powerful winch by a high tonnage steel cable to carefully lower and raise it just like an elevator. We also have an additional back up safety line, and signal line. All dives are carefully monitored and emergency air supply is available in the cage. Here on the bottom the Great Whites seem to be more at home, and usually even more adventurous in approaching the cage in numbers. Other than Great White Sharks here, we also get to view the local bottom dwelling reef fish on these dives, which includes the worlds largest stingray, and various other types of bottom dwelling rays and sharks.

 

Best Time of the Year: Until recent times, our traditional season of operation, over our 35-year history, tended to be from December through to April. Here we looked for the warmer summer weather with longer daylight hours. We wrongly assumed that shark activity was consistent throughout the year, if probably even better at this time when seals congregated to breed. ("so why not just operate mostly over these warmer months?") In this period until 1994, Great White sightings were reliable most years, with many "bumper years", mixed in with the occasional much less productive years. We put down the higher activity of sharks seen in the cooler months simply to chance and natural variation.

 

However, we now know that the "High Season" is from May through to September, which consistently shows the best activity levels of Great Whites each season. We now run the majority of our tours during this time. We strongly recommend these cooler mid year months to all who want to see maximum possible shark activity. Absolute Peak activity is likely to be encountered in June to September in the coolest weather.

 

From April to June, the winds are often at their calmest and the normal air and water temperatures are still quite mild. This is often the nicest time to be out on the water. In June to August though, the sometimes stronger winds gratefully tend to prevail from the preferred direction suiting our anchorages, so we usually still get to dive every day with the usually even more plentiful sharks then. The warmest water temperature is found in January/ February (19-20 Celsius Surface temp or 68 F). The temperature then drops down to 15-16 Celsius or about 60 F in August/September.

 

So May and June probably has the best combination of high shark activity, along with more favourable weather. However June to September promises the most shark activity.

We do not operate at all between October to Mid January, due to unreliable Shark activity combined with the mostly unfavourable and strong prevailing winds.

 

 

 

Activity report for 2001: Our First Expedition for the 2001 (March 29^Th to April 4^th) was extremely succesful with up to 10 Great White sharks sighted every day on location. Even after last years success, this was a fantastic result so early in the season and we now look forward to see just what "Prime Time" can deliver?

 

Activity Report for 2000: We had one "pre-season" (January) failure, with only two brief topside glimpses recorded. This was not surprising to us at this time. Stan Waterman’s’ Group in February also had an extremely disappointing trip, with less than 20 minutes of topside only action on one windy afternoon. This disappointment was probably due to the unseasonably poor weather we experienced, with just the 3 actual days spent trying for sharks". Also this date is still considered outside the more reliable "High Season".

 

All of our later "Prime Time" 2000 trips, and other earlier season dates, including the 9 day Mid February trip were extremely productive, and as expected continued to further improve, with many more sharks arriving daily as we worked through into the cooler months.

 

At North Neptune Islands, Multiple sharks were recorded to visit Falie every single operating day from May to September. (An average of 4-6 sharks and often up to at least 9/day!). Great Whites are extremely active at this time, with spectacular breaching and predatory activity observed by topside observers on every trip, as well as frequent shark-to-shark interactions. It seems all evidence about Late April through to September being the best and most reliable time of the year for viewing Great White Shark activity has become fully realized, and now beyond dispute!

 

The North Neptune Islands were far more productive than the South Neptune Island group for the 2000 season and Dangerous Reef again produced no Sharks on only 2 days (including 1 in January) tried there.

 

Reliability of Sightings: Our long history shows that it is still possible to experience an expedition with limited, or possibly even no actual shark viewings. We therefore can’t ever really give a 100% guarantee of success out working with "Mother Nature". However the risks of disappointment only seem significant in our earlier season, and we no longer operate tours, between October to Mid January, which is now considered the "off season"!

 

By working in the recognised "high season", especially longer duration expeditions, we can now be confidant to have good shark activity on most days. The Special longer 7 to 9 day Rodney Fox Falie programs, are specifically designed for the most serious great white admirers from all over the world. This allows for any time needed to wait for sharks to arrive, possible spells of unfavourable weather, and trying multiple viewing locations.

"Early Season" January to Early April Expedition Dates: Great Whites usually tend to first make consistent appearances at our locations, from Mid-January, through to April after which they seem to increase in numbers and activity. In past years the early season was very successful most years and this is when most of our films and documentaries were created. However first noticed in the last decade (especially 1994-96) we witnessed several complete "No Shows" on early expeditions. So to avoid such disappointment we caution this time to divers, unless they are aware of potential limited activity but,………

1.) Are bound by time restraints and willing to take some chances with the limited shark activity occasionally seen some years during this time.

2.) Prefer the warmer weather found in late summer and early autumn. This appeals to those who look forward to "taking their shirt off" to sunbake.

3.) Want to see the Sea lions at their best, enjoying fur seal breeding behaviour on the islands, and reliable Dives at Hopkins Island frequently in our program. Also the generally smaller summer swell size allows island shore parties on more days.

Note: We generally only organise small boat charters from Mid January through to the high season for small groups of 4-6 passengers unless larger entire groups want to book an entire charter of Falie outright. We have a different itinerary with the small boat tours and Rodney is not necessarily on board.

 

Falie Expedition Itinerary

The 7-9 day agenda we provide on the "Falie"(140ft), usually allows us time enough to locate the best sharks, and for the possibility of poor weather. This ensures we also enjoy the Great Whites and our surroundings to their fullest, utilize all available facilities, and maximise the entire experience.

 

Evening Prior departure: By arriving in Adelaide the Day before departure you can enjoy the complimentary welcome gathering at the Rodney Fox Shark Museum the evening before departure at 6pm. At the welcome gathering we meet the other passengers on the expedition, and this gives everyone an opportunity to address and consider any last minute needs or supplies. Any needs can then be purchased or hired at various nearby stores, or in the case of some specialist equipment, such as dive gear, we can arrange to have delivered. Rodney then tells a few stories and drinks and nibbles are provided. Complimentary Expedition Polo Shirts are also presented to all passengers here.

 

Day 1: We pick up all members of the group from various accommodation locations, the shark museum, and/or Adelaide airport and deliver to the boat. This morning is the last chance to acquire any last minute needs and supplies. Then Loading and Departure is from approx. 11 am. That afternoon while underway we settle everyone into their cabins and allow all to familiarise with the vessel, set up cameras and dive gear, and prepare for the days ahead. That night for those travelling well and awake, we often present talks and a review of some of the classic shark videos in our collection. We aim to be on our first dive location by first light the next morning.

 

Day 2 (first dive day): On earlier season expeditions, we often spend the first morning sport diving with the beautiful, friendly and very rare Australian Sea lions at Hopkins Island, (which is a place that has proved historically safer from the Great Whites normal attention.) Here is a chance to also collect a feed of abalone or lobster here when conditions suit. This is usually the last and only opportunity for divers to swim outside the confines of a shark cage.

 

In later season months we often head straight to the sharks. This decision is dependant on recent shark activity history, the weather forecast and the overall wishes of the group. Our first cage dive is a test dive for "first time passengers" to orientate themselves with the cage entry and exit procedures and work out just how much extra weight each person needs, to be negative enough to stand in the cages (without wearing fins.) Frequently we have our first Great White Shark sighting during this first test dives.

 

Day 3 – to the end of the last dive day: For the majority of the expedition, our priority aim is to maximise our efforts locating and interacting with Great White Sharks. Any travelling between viewing locations is normally done overnight to maximise daylight productivity. On location cage diving is available whenever the weather conditions and the shark activity allows. This includes "bottom diving," where we lower by winch the shark cage below the surface often to the ocean floor. We also try and coordinate topside feeding sequences at selected times. When conditions suit, shore excursions are offered daily to nearby islands to explore and view local wildlife. At night we often provide a presentation, including talks, videos or slide show. Those not wishing to stay down below in our large saloon are free to spend their evenings up on deck, before retiring to their bunks.

 

Last day (Day 7- 9): After a full days activities on location on the previous final dive day, we depart for the 16 hour overnight journey back to Port Adelaide, arriving to homeport before noon on this final day. We then unload and deliver all passengers from the Falie back to the Adelaide Airport, or if staying on in Adelaide, to their choice of accommodation. Passengers are free to also relax at the Shark Museum, in Glenelg and can be taken there to wait, or to make further travel or accommodation arrangements.

 

Note: Any afternoon flights this day, especially International flights out from Adelaide, should ideally be organised no earlier than about 2pm. However we can still often make up time to connect to earlier flights. Please advise!

 

Departures: 2001, 7-9 day Special Rodney Fox Falie Tour Dates

MAR 29-APR 4 (7 DAYS) Fully Booked

APR 25-MAY 3 (9DAYS) Fully Booked

MAY 8-16 (9 DAYS) Fully Booked

MAY 23-31 ( 9 DAYS) Fully Booked

JUN 5-14 (10 DAYS) Fully Booked

JUNE 19-26 (8 DAYS) Single Vacancy, and one twin cabin remaining

JULY 17-24 (8 DAYS) Fully Booked

AUG 29-SEPT 5 (8 DAYS 2 single spaces remaining

SEPT12-19 (NEW)(8 Days) Twin Cabin(Couples)and Quad cabin (singles) available

Note: single passengers can be allotted into twin or quad berth cabins. Couples get priority of the twin cabin allocation preference on order of booking.

 

Prices for Divers 2001

All prices Australian Dollars inclusive 10% GST and National Park Fees.

All trips Adelaide to Adelaide Departure 12.30pm on Day 1 and arrival Home 10.30pm

All tours with Rodney and Andrew Fox

7 Day/6 night AUD$4440/passenger

8 Day/7 Night AUD$5550/passenger

9 Day/8 Night AUD$6660/passenger

 

Prices for Divers 2002

All prices Australian Dollars inclusive 10% GST and National Park Fees.

5 Night Port Lincoln to Adelaide. with Andrew Fox Only AUD$3880/passenger

6 Night Port Lincoln to Adelaide. with Andrew Fox Only AUD$4220/passenger

6 Night Adelaide to Adelaide. Rodney & Andrew Fox AUD$4510/passenger

7 Night Adelaide to Port Lincoln. Rodney & Andrew Fox AUD$5550/passenger

8 Night Adelaide to Adelaide. Rodney & Andrew Fox AUD$6660/passenger

20% "Non Diver" Discount is calculated exclusive of National Park Fees and GST.

Flight Bookings Option from the USA

For American Passengers not happy to organise your own flights from the USA, Nancy Nevis at Great Destinations Travel will be delighted to help you with your air flight bookings. Her phone number is 1-800-741-2178.

 

Alternative Small Boat, Cage Diving Charter:

We also organise small Group bookings or single placements on other small vessels to suit various Projects, budgets and time restrictions you may have. Available Live aboard small boats (35 to 57ft) are usually a flat rate from AUD$450/head/ Day + 20/Day National park fees + 10% GST.), and can cater for up to 6-8 passengers. Alternatively the whole boat can be chartered out at a daily rate for your small group exclusively. These small vessels are only based from Port Lincoln, so extra transfers need be arranged from Adelaide. Airfares are around AUD$220 return from Adelaide. (Caution, often-minimal luggage requirement here).

 

Normally all these tours are a minimum of 4 days long, including travel on the 1^st and 4^th day. Departure is 8am on Day one, returning at 5pm on the final day. Extra nights accommodation is usually $38.50/Head inc.GST, in twin share and a double room, at the marina house next to where the boat is berthed in Port Lincoln. Most passengers of these shorter tours stay here the night before departure for comfort and convenience, other than alternative Port Lincoln hotel/motel rooms. Warm dive wetsuits are available at about $20/Day. All transfers from and to Port Lincoln Airport included.

 

It should be noted here these small boats do not have many of the described features facilities, comforts and stability of our Rodney Fox Falie Expeditions, (mentioned above.) Cage viewing on the smaller vessels is restricted to just a single 2 person, surface cage only to be shared by all passengers. Air supply to divers here is by compressor air hose. Weight and belts supplied.

 

For film crews and research groups and other special groups we can also use fishing trawlers, other vessels and specialized equipment to design a package to suit your needs. Please ask for a quote.

 

Special Features Provided only on Rodney Fox "Falie" Expeditions.

Full time Live-aboard service. Accommodation is in twin and quad share cabins. More details of Falie, at http://www.falie.com.au

#Expedition Hosted by Rodney and/or Andrew Fox, and often other celebrity guests. Including special talks and photographic instruction on most dates.

#Falie has 3 large bathrooms with showers, and carries an ample 17 Tonnes of fresh water.

#Extra towels and change of bedding provided.

#Clothes dryer and washing powder available.

#Full time chef and fully equipped galley provide restaurant quality food, wine, beer and soft drinks all complimentary. Please prior notify of any special dietary requirements/ preferences.

#Complimentary welcome gathering, with refreshments offered at Rodney’s Shark Museum the evening before departure at 6pm. Issue of complimentary expedition shirts also here.

#First aid supplies, Medical officer on board at all times.

#Ship has permanent radio contact and satellite phone. Email link up in near future

#All Scuba tanks, unlimited air fills, and lead weight belts are included. All other dive gear is available for hire by pre arrangement, if required. (See hire packages below.)

#12 cage positions in 3 X (4 person) cages so all divers can maximise their contact time with available sharks. Also facilitates cage-to-cage photography and scale.

# Strong on board winches allow controlled ascent and desent to bottom diving cages, to get divers safely to the ocean bottom to view sharks in South Australias incomparable high visibility waters with no bouncing from any surface wave chop!

#Video Footage of each adventure is taken by Rodney and Andrew for purchase.

 

Recommended Accommodation prior/post Expedition in Adelaide

From "backpacker" up to Luxury 4.5 star accommodation is all available in Glenelg, Adelaide, within easy walking distance to the Rodney Fox Shark Museum. Here we hold the welcome gathering and base our bus transfers to and from the boat. Many passengers enjoy spending time and relaxing in the museum when on shore. Beachside Glenelg is also one of the best places in Adelaide for restaurants, cinemas, and shopping. Glenelg is also located close to the Airport (less than15 min. by Taxi) and very convenient to the city (20 Min. by Tram)

 

Please advise if you wish us to reserve any rooms for you, if you plan to attend the welcome gathering, and if you plan to stay the night upon return. You, or we can reserve your booking (mentioning "Rodney Fox Expeditions" to get any special rates). You fix the account direct on departure. Details of these places are listed at the following listed web addresses.

 

"The Stamford Grand," Glenelg. is a large luxury 4.5 star, beachside hotel. See their web site at http://australiahotels.net/adelaide/stamfordgrand/index.htm This deluxe Hotel is located directly across the road from the Shark Museum. Basic room prices are extremely reasonable to our expedition members for this level of luxury. Please mention you are with Rodney Fox Expeditions to obtain the special rate, or we can make your reservation through our office. Deluxe Rooms/suites are also available.

 

Standard Rooms: AUD$158/Night City Views, AUD$185/Night Ocean Views. Breakfast is extra and available as room service or served down in hotel resturaunts below.

 

"Away At The Bay" Quality 4 star rooms available with Hearty Breakfast included in price, and offered in a relaxed atmosphere. This is an option for those who prefer a more special personal touch. Alan and Julie Winson are your hosts here, and especially try to look after our expedition members. Only two rooms available, and very popular with our repeat passengers. Very close to The Shark Museum, and Jetty Road for shopping, restaurants and the Historic Tram into Adelaide City. www.awayatthebay.com.au Phone -61 8 8294 8676 Fax –61 8 8294 8881

 

Delux Single AUD$140

Delux Double AUD$150-$165

 

"The Glenelg Beach Resort" 3 star establishment caters from basic dorm. economy backpacker style accommodation up to private single rooms with private 0/S bathrooms, licensed bar/café, entertainment venue and many other facilities. They also provide free transfers from the airport on request with flight details provided. Prices range from (AUD$15-$60/night) and a single room with share bathroom is AUD$40/Night. For more details please see their website at www.glenelgbeachresort.com.au.

 

"Ensenada Motor inn"

4 star Motel Ideally situated opposite the beach and overlooking picturesque Colley Reserve. Our special corperate room rate is just AUD$92/Executive and AUD$102/Deluxe rooms. Mention Rodney Fox Expeditions, when booking or get us to reserve your room for this price! Very Close to Shark Museum, Jetty Road’s shopping, restaurants and the Tram direct to city.

Fax +61 8 82943393 Freecall 1800 810 778 http://www.ensenada.com.au/contact_us.html Email info@ensenada.com.au

 

 

What to Bring Along

Warm clothing. Late Summer to Spring away from the mainland, out on the Southern ocean has frequent variable daily maximum temperatures from 25C (77 F), down to possibly as low as 10C (50F) on some cold winter days. Even in our late summer/early autumn period it is possible to have some days of cool windy weather, especially up on deck in the early mornings, late evenings and nights. So Warm Jackets and Sweaters are advised. Complementary basic (Orange PVC) wet weather gear is available in cabins on loan to each guest. Warm Clothing can be purchased on arrival at various stores in Glenelg or at the Shark Museum if you want to pack light coming in, and then consider the long-range weather forecast after you arrive. A Clothes Dryer and washing powder is available onboard.

 

Personal Dive Gear, including BCD, mask, Regulators, wetsuit/ drysuits, diving hood, gloves and sturdy Dive Boots, divers need to bring along. We do often have spare dive gear on board for "Non Divers" to try a snorkel in surface cages. (conditions allowing)

 

BCD, Fins and a Snorkel are required only "if" we do the sea lion dives on the first day. For Cage Diving though, we do not wear any fins, or snorkels, and many passengers like to "streamline" even further, and exchange their BCD for a simple complimentary ‘harness back pack‘ (Complimentary on board). A spare mask, and possibly specialist parts/tools are advisable, although there is also limited spare equipment available onboard in emergencies.

 

Scuba Tanks, Scuba Harnesses and weight belt/weights are provided complimentary on board for you. All other dive gear can be hired in Adelaide (see packages below). This should ideally be reserved by pre-arrangement, however this can usually also be organised as late as at the welcome gathering night, the night before departure at the shark Museum.

 

We recommend Drysuits or warm wetsuits be worn if planning long periods in the cage. Drysuits that we have available for hire here, are made of neoprene, (more of a body fitting style), and in the particular case here with cage diving, little experience is necessary. On trips when we can dive freely with sea lions, some previous drysuit experience is recommended.

 

Video and cameras to be bought along if required. (See below for limited hire availability). Limited cheap disposable underwater cameras are available onboard. We take some group video footage, which can be acquired from us. (See video sales and hire below) Some cameras require special batteries that are hard to aquire at times, so possibly bring a spare!

 

"Polarised" Sunglasses are a real advantage in seeing through the surface glare, for superior topside shark spotting. Great Whites often instinctively approach us from the direction of the sun. This also applies for polarized filter advantages on SLR and video cams.

 

All sunscreen, hats and much clothing etc. can be bought at local shops or organised at the welcome gathering the night before departure. at the Shark Museum. Summer and Early Autumn trips especially are subject to high sunburn risk. Some sunscreen is available complimentary on the boat. Lip balm can be a very good idea!

 

All film, batteries (including specific specialized batteries) any alcoholic spirits and tobacco required for the whole trip, (Remember Duty free if internationally travelling or these items can often be picked up on the morning of departure with the group bus transfer).

 

All other personal Medical and toiletry needs necessary for the duration of the voyage. Seasick tablets are available onboard.

 

We do provide daily snacks and nibbles, including potato crisps, chocolate, nuts, dips, cheese etc, and even popcorn for our regular "movie times", Wine and beer is supplied complimentary, however spirits are not provided onboard. (Remember duty free!)

 

Diver Certification c-card if SCUBA DIVING, credit cards and phone cards.

 

Indemnity Release Form required to be signed.

Cage Diving insurance is prohibitively high and therefore insurance not available on these expeditions for any in water activities. (Even though we have never lost anybody in more than 30 years!) So everyone is required to sign an indemnity release form before they are allowed to dive. The Ship does have public liability insurance for all onboard activities.

 

Insurance

We recommend travel and cancellation insurance be taken out by all passengers, especially to cover loss or theft of gear, or unavoidable trip cancellation. Diving insurance is also recommended, including cover for emergency evacuation.

 

Dive Gear Hire Packages

All Diving gear and some limited numbers of still and video cameras are available at special package rates to Rodney Fox Expedition members from "The Adelaide Dive Centre". Email dive@adskin.com.au

 

#Wetsuits (inc. hood, dive boots and gloves) AUD$120 /trip

 

#Drysuits (neoprene) AUD$280/trip. Recommended for winter season trips and divers spending extended time in the water. (No experience of Drysuits needed for cage Diving!)

 

#Regulators, Buoyancy Vest/Backpack package are AUD$220/trip.

 

###Complete Kit with Wetsuit (all dive gear). is AUD$290/Trip

 

###Complete Kit with Drysuit (all dive gear) AUD$440/trip

 

Camera availability and Hire

Video Camera availability for hire from Adelaide is extremely limited, so we suggest most passengers pre-organise their requirements.

 

We sometimes have one Sony Hi 8 Video Camera with housing available for AUD$500/Trip, however when filming underwater, only the ships dive crew are permitted to change Film and Batteries by opening the casing!

 

Sale of Proffessional Underwater Housing/Camera packages, or just U/W housings for many current video and still cameras can be bought right here in Adelaide, at the esteemed "Sea Optics Australia" outlet at very special rates to our passengers, (at duty free rates to international travellers). Prearrangement probably necessary at most times.

SEA OPTICS Australia P/L. Adelaide, South Australia

Ph: 61 8 8363 3277 Fax: 61 8 8363 3211 website: http://www.seaoptic.com/

 

We can occasionally offer underwater still cameras such as "Sea and Sea" camera Package with accessories (strobe and 20mm wide angle lens) in a Pelicase for sale or hire, and for the more professional we occasionally have Nikonos or even SLR/housing packages. (Enquire with "Adelaide Dive Centre"dive@adskin.com.au) They also supply some of the better reliable and Budget disposable U/W cameras that do take adequate "happy snaps".

 

It should be mentioned that on most trips there are usually many passengers with video and still cameras amongst the typical group mix, (even professional Film Crews at times) and it is common to share images, even copying video on board from each other, (usually after we all view it on the ships monitor). Make sure you bring along the right cable connection if you wish to review your day’s video footage on the ships monitor (PAL and NTSC compatible)

 

Film crews on board certain dates often offer to provide a copy of their work to other passengers. On most trips we also video the group activities and some dives and this footage can be acquired by all passengers.

 

Payment Policy:

# A 30% deposit of the total cost is required to secure a position with us.

# Deposit is refundable up to 90 Days from departure, minus $250 cancellation fee.

# Deposit is fully transferable to any other allowable later date until 60 days before departure.

# Full payment balance is due 60 days before departure.

# Transfer of deposits to later date allowed within 60 days/departure if replacement found.

# We reserve the right to sell any position that is not paid in full 45 days before departure.

# No refund is made for any unused part of the itinerary, e.g. due to unforseen mechanical, medical, weather or other considerations.

 

To make sure of exact conversion rates we prefer payments be made with telegraphic bank transfer of funds direct into our bank account. Please ask for our account details on booking.

 

Alternatively bank cheques or money orders preferably in Australian Dollars should be made out to Australian Recreation Exports PTY LTD.

Any cheques should be mailed to Andrew Fox at this address.

28A Cardwell Street

Adelaide 5000

South Australia

Australia

 

If paying by credit card, Visa and MasterCard Details can be faxed to +618 8376 3362 if you prefer not to email this information.

 

Contact Information

Expedition office is at Rodney Fox Shark Museum.

Moseley Square, Glenelg, 5045

Adelaide, South Australia

Phone: +618 8376 3373 Fax: +618 8376 3362

For more information or to contact Andrew Fox directly, Email: rodneyfox@chariot.net.au

 

A Satellite Phone is available onboard when out of standard digital phone range. (Available to passengers @ AUD$1.60/minute, payable after use) Technology for Onboard Email facilities is expected in the near future. The ship keeps contact with its Adelaide based office daily, so messages can be passed on.