Though sharks are considered some of the most terrifying and dangerous animals in the world, every year thousands of people opt to swim face to face with them. Whether it’s free diving or cage diving, with nurse sharks or great whites; shark diving is one of the most sought after bucket list adventures. Here’s your guide to some of the best shark dives on the planet!
6 Quick Tips to Prepare for Your Dive
- Learn what kinds of sharks you’re going to encounter so you know what you expect in terms of behavior.
- Do not chase or corner any kind of shark. Remember they are wild animals and you’re in their space. They will defend themselves if they feel threatened.
- Stay close to your dive buddy but avoid grouping with other divers. You could be perceived as something large and intimidating which could provoke aggressive behavior or at best scare them off.
- If the sharks appear agitated or aggressive or excited increase the distance between you and the shark or leave the water. Movements to be mindful of include: change in swimming style, an increase in tension, pectoral fins held downward, and/or jerky movements. BE OBSERVANT.
- Be honest with your guide regarding your diving experience.
- Don’t stare directly at sharks. They don’t like it any more than you do.
Sharks are fascinating, highly intelligent, beautiful animals. Just remember they can be potentially dangerous and it’s very important to take all the proper precautions before getting in the water.
To have the opportunity to safely swim with them is both a privilege and life-changing experience that everyone should mark off their bucket list.
Alex Durham-Brown