Mossel Bay’s Premier Fishing Charter!

Welcome to Salt Life Charters

 

Mossel Bay’s premier fishing charter and ocean adventure specialists in the stunning Garden Route, South Africa. We invite you to experience the ultimate ocean adventures along the breathtaking coast of Mossel Bay, blending excitement, expertise, and respect for the marine environment.

 

 

 

Who We Are


Our family-run business is built on passion passed down through generations. Dedicated to providing you with memorable experiences on the water, whether sharing with others or booking a private fishing charter. We uphold ethical fishing practices, ensuring every catch is handled with care and respect for the ocean’s delicate balance.

 

 

 

Our Team

 


Justin McCarthy:

Owner & skipper with over 30 years of experience in saltwater fishing, Mossel Bay local.

 

 

Esther Jacobs:

Co-owner & communications specialist with deep love for marine life & seabirds (from Scotland).

 

Jacobus van der Bank (Marco):

Experienced skipper from a renowned fishing family.

 

Together, we ensure every trip is thrilling, safe, and educational.

 

 

What We Offer

 

  • Deep Sea Fishing: Expertly led Garden Route deep sea fishing trips on our 26ft Butt Cat (Instagator) accommodating up to six fishers.
  • Offshore Birding Trips: Seasonal trips to see albatross, petrels, shearwaters & more pelagic birds of Mossel Bay.
  • Private Fishing Charters: Book the boat for yourself – perfect for families, friends, corporate team-building.
  • Film Productions: Nature film production logistics in South Africa’s scenic Garden Route.
  • Boat Surveys: SAMSA registered surveyor for recreational vessels (Justin McCarthy).

 

 

 

Our Vessel - Instagator (26ft Butt Cat)

 

  • Purpose-built for fishing with exceptional handling.
  • Comfortable for guests.
  • Bow & stern offer ideal camera platforms for filming.
  • SAMSA compliant – safety is our highest priority.

 

 

 

Adventures & Activities

 

  • Deep Sea Fishing: Mossel Bay offers ideal fishing conditions year-round for all skill levels.
  • Offshore Birding: Spot African Penguins, albatrosses, petrels & more in Mossel Bay’s prime birding area.
  • Ocean Safaris: See dolphins, whales (seasonal), sharks, seals & turtles.

Mossel Bay is top for SCUBA diving, shark cage diving, whale watching, surfing, kayaking.

 

 

 

Wildlife Encounters

 

  • Dolphins (bottlenose, common, humpback).
  • Whales (humpback & southern right, seasonal).
  • Sharks (white sharks for cage diving, others seen).
  • Seals, turtles, pelagic birds.
  • Orcas (killer whales) – rare but seen.

 

 

 

Film Production Services

 

  • Location scouting in Mossel Bay & surrounds.
  • Logistics for commercials, TV shows, documentaries, feature films.
  • Help with transport, accommodation, catering, service providers, equipment, talent/extras, security.

 

 

 

Important Notes

 

  • Fishing permits: Required by Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment – we can help organise.
  • What to Bring: Water, snacks, hat, sunglasses, layers (winter); we provide equipment, tackle, bait.
  • Safety first: SAMSA registered & compliant vessel.

 

 

 

Mossel Bay Ocean Activities

 

Mossel Bay’s stable weather & sea conditions make it ideal for various ocean activities – deep sea fishing, SCUBA diving, surfing, kayaking, whale watching.

  • Closer to nature: We encourage respect & protection for ocean ecosystems.

 

 

 

Book Your Charter


Ready to experience the ocean adventures of a lifetime with Salt Life Charters? We offer flexible options to suit your needs. Come create unforgettable memories on the beautiful waters of Mossel Bay with Salt Life Charters. Let’s plan your ocean adventure!