Having the opportunity to dive with sharks is bucket-list stuff for some and nightmare fuel for others. As for those on the fence, there’s a lot to know about the ins and outs of shark diving, which is what this post is here to uncover.
Taking some of the web’s most-asked questions about shark diving, we’ll aim to give our expert input on everything involved, including the different types of shark diving, what to expect, and how safe it really is. We’ll also be showcasing some of the shark diving experiences you can sink your teeth into right here at Deep Sea World.
Ready to get started? Jump in and get your shark diving questions answered below.
What is shark diving?
Shark diving is as simple as it sounds – although it’s not as dangerous as you might think. Shark diving can take place in the open ocean or within an aquarium, like our facility here at Deep Sea World.
Some experiences use cages that are lowered into the water, while others allow you to swim with the sharks through snorkelling or SCUBA diving. The type of dive usually depends on the species of shark.
Whatever type of shark diving you do, it offers an incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent animals up close. At Deep Sea World, we offer dives with sand tiger sharks, a species that can reach lengths of 3 metres!
Is diving with sharks safe?
Shark diving is safe as long as it’s carried out under expert supervision. It’s always important to research before booking a dive to ensure it’s conducted safely and ethically, for yourself and the animals.
At Deep Sea World, your shark diving experience is led by highly qualified professionals who work with these animals daily. You’ll receive a safety briefing with hands-on training covering how to use SCUBA equipment, and you’ll also learn how you can safely interact with the animals in our tank. With our expert team, combined with the training you will receive, you can relax and enjoy the experience knowing you’re in safe hands.
To conclude, then, diving with sharks is safe, so long as the right conditions are met.
Can I swim with great white sharks?
Diving with great white sharks is definitely for the thrill seeker, and there are opportunities in some parts of the world to see them. Great white shark diving experiences usually involve the use of a cage that is lowered into the water.
As with all shark encounters, it’s important to make sure you dive with a responsible dive centre that has your safety and the animals’ welfare as their top priorities.
What to do if a shark approaches you whilst diving
If you’re doing a shark dive, at least some part of you is hoping to get as close as possible to the sharks – but what should you do once this happens? Firstly, you must stay calm and avoid sudden, wild movements that are likely to startle the sharks.
During the experience, a specially qualified diver will be present at all times, helping you feel calm and safe. They’ll provide you with all the necessary equipment and safety advice before you get in the water.
What is it like to swim with sharks?
In a safe and controlled environment, diving with sharks can be extremely rewarding. You’ll get a deep appreciation for the size, power and beauty of these majestic animals, and an up-close experience that can scarcely be rivalled through the glass wall of an aquarium.
Thrilling
Shark diving is the perfect activity for thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts. Our diving team is highly experienced, so you can dive assured that you’re in safe hands. Visitors come to dive with us all the time, so you have nothing to be scared of if you decide to dive with the Deep Sea World sharks.
Educational
Diving with sharks is one of the most exciting ways to learn about them. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can promote a better understanding of these majestic animals and just how peaceful they really are. That’s why, in addition to seeing our sharks up close, our knowledgeable dive team will teach you more about what you can do to help protect sharks.
Overcome fears
Although diving with sharks may seem like a scary prospect to some, sharks are surprisingly docile animals – including our sand tiger sharks – which are particularly suitable tank-mates for new divers.
After experiencing a shark dive with us, you’ll learn that with a little encouragement and preparation, you too can push through your fears and do something you’ve always dreamed of doing but never had the courage to!
Can you shark dive in the UK?
Of course! Deep Sea World offers shark diving experiences right here in the UK, so you can take the plunge and get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
Deep Sea World is one of only a small handful of certified shark diving centres in the country. Our professional team of shark diving experts has years of combined experience in diving and interacting with sharks, so we are well-placed to help you enjoy an unforgettable encounter.
Shark Diving Encounters at Deep Sea World
We’re incredibly proud and excited to be able to offer such an exhilarating and educational experience as our Shark Encounters at Deep Sea World.
During the experience, you’ll be fully briefed of what to expect, how to behave and how to enjoy the experience safely. Then you’ll be given all the equipment and training before being given the go-ahead to start the dive and get up close with our beautiful sand tiger sharks.
Our Junior Shark Encounter is for ages 8-15 and costs £150 per person. The entire experience, including training, briefing and the dive, lasts approximately one hour.
Our Adult Shark Encounter costs £260 per person. The whole experience lasts two hours, and is perfect for first-time divers. You’ll also be able to bring two spectators to watch you dive with our sharks from our underwater tunnel.
We also offer a shark dive for qualified divers, which costs £150 plus gear rental, and the experience, including briefing, setting up gear and the dive, lasts two hours.
Our dives run every weekend, and spaces sell fast, so be sure to book in advance!
Shark diving is one of the most exhilarating experiences that anyone can experience, allowing you to see beautiful animals closer than ever, while remaining safe and learning valuable skills.
Ready to take the plunge? Book your tickets to visit us today!