I've Dived With Sharks Over 40 Times — Here's What I've Learned
Hey, I'm Marisa! I have a passion for snorkeling and diving and have dedicated the past few years to exploring the world of sharks. In 2020, I had a life-changing experience during a family trip to Mexico where I encountered 30-foot whale sharks. This encounter sparked my desire to push my limits, and I started seeking opportunities to dive with every shark out there. If there was a shark near me...I was swimming with it!
During my first dive with a tiger shark, I had to redirect the shark and, in my mind, I confidently pushed her away. In reality, my hand was shaking and I may have almost cried. It took some time to become accustomed to these amazing creatures, but along the way, I've gained valuable knowledge.
Throughout my shark diving journey, I've gained some insights that have not only increased my understanding of sharks and their behavior, but have also made my diving experiences safer and more fulfilling. Some of the discoveries even surprised me!
Here are some of the most useful things I've learned while swimming with sharks.
1.Sharks Are Very Curious
When humans enter a shark's habitat, it's common for these creatures to display curiosity and approach to investigate. Therefore, it's not unexpected if a shark swims up to greet you and perhaps even bump into you. Sharks have no boundaries!
2.Learning How To Redirect A Shark Is Important
When redirecting a shark, it's crucial to push down and away from your body, rather than pushing up on their head, which would cause their mouth to open! By pushing down, you can guide the shark to swim around naturally.
3.You Shouldn't Wear Yellow Or White When Diving With Sharks
The vibrant colors in the water, like yellow or white, can attract sharks as they often associate these hues with brightly colored fish. Due to this association, sharks may occasionally mistake yellow or white fins for potential prey.
4.When Diving With Sharks, Get In The Water ASAP
Sharks are extremely curious creatures. They won't give you time to check if your gear is ready or if you are prepared. You need to be alert and aware of your surroundings once you're in the water. The key is to look down immediately so you can have a good view from all angles.
5.Don't Splash And Look Like Prey
When shark diving, it is crucial to refrain from making sudden movements or splashing. Those movements can mimic the behavior of injured marine creatures, potentially attracting sharks. It's essential to maintain composure, move deliberately, and avoid sudden or erratic motions. Remember this: Don't swim away like the movies teach!
6.Maintain Eye Contact With Sharks At All Times
It is important to assert your dominance and appear large to the shark by maintaining eye contact and following the shark with your body and eyes. Following the shark all the way through until it swims away is vital, since it can quickly turn the second you drop eye contact.
7.Be Aware
When chumming to attract sharks, the sharks will head straight for the bait and continuously circle the food source. Sharks can quickly emerge from the depths and swim around the divers to reach the bait. While it is impressive to witness shark feeds, it is important to frequently check around yourself, as they can appear from unexpected directions.
8.Keep Camera Equipment Detached From Your Body
One of the greatest thrills of shark diving is being able to film sharks. However, sharks can mistake camera equipment for food and might bite it, swimming off with the camera. Usually, the sharks will drop the equipment from their mouths. It's better to be safe than sorry and keep the camera detached from your body in case a shark decides to take a nibble.
9.Don't Look For Shark Teeth Where The Sharks Were Just Fed
It's exciting to discover a shark tooth. If you're searching for shark teeth, it's crucial to limit your search time to a few seconds at a time. Staying alert is one of the most important tips for shark diving, so looking for teeth shouldn't be your main focus.
10.If You Want To Dive With Sharks — Start With Whale Sharks
The whale shark, a gentle giant of the sea, is undisturbed by human interaction. Despite their imposing size, these magnificent creatures are slow swimmers, allowing for safe and amazing interactions. Many dive companies offer guided experiences, ensuring a memorable swim with them.
11.Sharks Recognize People — Especially The Shark Feeders
One of the most fascinating things I've learned while shark diving is that they can recognize the people who feed them. During a swim-around (where you don't feed the sharks), I observed that the sharks kept approaching the people who normally feed them. The sharks were clearly looking to be fed! It was astonishing because everyone looked almost identical in their diving gear, yet the sharks were able to distinguish the feeders.
12.Check In On Your Dive Buddies
Good diving practice always includes checking on your diving buddies, especially when shark diving. In addition to staying alert to your surroundings, it's important to make sure everything is ready for your dive and that you're prepared in case something goes wrong. I was unprepared the first time I saw a shark nip my friend's arm. Fortunately, it was just an exploratory bite and nothing more...thank goodness!
13.Remember, They Are Predators
Sharks are powerful and formidable predators. It is important to recognize that these creatures should not be underestimated or mistaken for docile animals. Their behavior and environment should be approached with caution and respect.
14.Lastly, Don't Be Afraid!
Movies like Jaws and 47 Meters Down have contributed to the negative reputation of sharks, but with the right knowledge and equipment, shark diving can be an absolutely awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.
Would you ever dive with sharks? Let me know in the comment section below!
