Shark Diving Frequently Asked Questions
Is shark diving dangerous?
There are basically two different kinds of sharks: the (almost) harmless ones and
the potential dangerous ones.
In the first category are shark species like Whale Sharks, Leopard Sharks, Nurse
Sharks and Whitetip Reef Sharks.
Those are all considered harmless as long as they are not provoked or surprised.
In the second category is the well known shark the Great White Sharks. When diving
with Great White Sharks you should always dive inside a cage.
Shark species like Bull Sharks, Blue Sharks and Tiger Sharks can also be extremely
dangerous to Human. Some dive operators offer dives without cages. If you are willing
to take this risk to get extra adrenalin kick must be your own decision. Just remember
that there is a risk – even though it is probably small.
The dangerous Great White Shark
What is shark cage diving?
Shark cage diving allows divers a safe view of Great White Sharks (or other dangerous
shark species).
Specially designed cages are placed in the water and provide protection against
the sharks. From here the divers can experience a protected close encounter with
the sharks.
Shark cage diving
Do I have to be a certified scuba diver?
It depends on the type of dive. If you are shark cage diving you do normally not
have to be a certified diver, because you actually are swimming (or snorkeling)
with the sharks.
If you are doing a normal shark dive, you normally have to be a certified diver
– like any other dives.
Sometimes you can do it as a “Discover Scuba”-dive, where you get a little instruction
before you dive. In this case you do not have to be certified.
Read the diving company information before you book the dive to know, if you have
to be a certified scuba diver.
Does shark diving harm the sharks?
Normally it will not. Dive operators are divers themselves and respect and care
for marine life.
In those locations where shark diving is popular, governments will often regulate
the shark diving, so only a limit number of divers are allowed to dive in the area.
Another reason to book shark dives well in advance.