Animal Ocean provides world-class ocean logistics, film production support, and private marine experiences in South Africa and beyond. The team includes experienced commercial divers with exceptional marine guiding skills, led by founder Steve Benjamin. Operating two 8-meter vessels equipped for Cineflex, Shotover, and GSS rigs, Animal Ocean is fully outfitted for demanding film and expedition work — with adaptable setups that include film tables, dive racks, scaffolding, or clean deck configurations.

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We are mobile, versatile, and production-ready, with enough snorkeling equipment to outfit groups of up to 30 guests at once. Whether you need marine event support, specialized safety diving, or tailored filming logistics, Animal Ocean can launch and operate efficiently anywhere along the coastline.

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Over the years, Animal Ocean has supported productions for leading global media companies including Netflix, BBC, Silverback Productions, and National Geographic, along with a range of other international broadcasters and film crews. Our reputation for reliability, precision, and safety has made us one of the most trusted marine logistics teams in the region.

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Steve Benjamin is a sought-after marine guide, biologist, and ocean expert whose career began in 2008 guiding baited tiger shark dives at Aliwal Shoal in KwaZulu-Natal. His work is driven by a deep passion to understand the ocean and its creatures — a passion that has taken him across the world’s seas supporting filmmakers, scientists, and explorers.

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Steve is renowned for making guests feel safe and confident in the water, revealing the ocean in a way few others can. He is available for private guiding, sharing his knowledge and calm expertise on exclusive trips, events, and film shoots in Cape Town or abroad. His intuitive understanding of marine life, combined with his background in spearfishing, photography, and marine science, makes him one of the most trusted ocean guides working today.

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He has mastered the Sardine Run, leading annual expeditions since 2009 and finding rare bait ball activity through experience and instinct. Steve has also supported some of the world’s best cinematographers — including Roger Horrocks and Angel Fitor — on major underwater productions, helping to capture complex and breathtaking footage safely and effectively.

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Steve’s dedication to sharing the ocean extends beyond film — he has led private marine adventures for high-profile guests and celebrities including Ellie Goulding, Casey Neistat, and Gabe Newell. His joy comes from seeing others connect with the sea, whether they are filmmakers, scientists, or first-time snorkelers.

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Get in touch to discover how Animal Ocean and Steve Benjamin can bring your next production, private trip, or ocean event to life.