Calm Seas: The Best Destinations for — Safely — Swimming With Sharks Javier Peinado January 19, 2024 Adventure Travel, Destinations, International Travel Sharks are one of the most misunderstood creatures in the world. While films like Jaws might have you believe that the ocean is full of relentlessly vicious sharks ready to pounce on swimmers the moment they enter the water, the reality is that shark attacks are exceedingly rare. Data compiled by the International Wildlife Museum puts the chances of being bitten by a shark at just 1 in 3.75 million. Statistically speaking, this makes it more likely that you will get in a car accident, be struck by lightning, or have a run-in with an out-of-control cow than be attacked by a shark! Part of this misperception is likely due to Shark Week on the Discovery Channel. Initially, Shark Week programming emphasized the more sensational aspects of sharks and shark attacks. This reinforced the stereotype of sharks as fearsome creatures. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in Shark Week’s content, and programming now includes a more balanced view, highlighting the ecological importance of sharks and their role in maintaining the health of ocean ecosystems. While conservationists have done wonders in changing popular opinion on sharks, there is still much that needs to be done to combat declining shark populations stimulated by habitat loss, overfishing, and the killing of sharks for their fins. Those with an interest in these majestic creatures can help by engaging in responsible shark tourism, a travel trend that has been shown to help shark populations recover by stabilizing habitats and incentivizing government protection for sharks and other marine life. In recognition of Kiss a Shark Week — the fourth full week of January — let’s take a closer look at some of the best destinations to swim with sharks for those interested in getting better acquainted with these amazing creatures. French Polynesia Few places can rightfully be called Heaven on Earth, but French Polynesia comes pretty close. Famous for beautiful beaches and tropical forests, French Polynesia is home to Tahiti and Bora Bora, the most well-known islands in the region. Visitors hoping to experience French Polynesia’s shark tourism have much to look forward to in the Tuamotu Islands, a chain of 80 small islands in the country’s northernmost territory. Common species of shark found in the Tuamotu Islands include grey reef sharks and hammerheads, but tiger sharks are also residents of the area. One of the most popular shark diving locations in the Tuamotus is the Tiputa Pass in the Rangiroa Atoll. Divers heading to the Tiputa Pass will be treated to plenty of shark schools along with a variety of other marine life, including barracudas, manta rays, and hawksbill turtles. The Caribbean Tiger sharks are pretty much everywhere in the Bahamas. The waters of the Caribbean hold a special place in our collective imagination. Once menaced by fierce pirates, the Caribbean is now a dream destination for those looking to enjoy a tropical getaway. If you head to the Caribbean hoping to get face-to-face with a shark, there are a lot of options at your disposal. Tiger Beach on Grand Bahama Island in the Bahamas remains one of the most popular shark diving locations in the world. As its name suggests, Tiger Beach is known for its abundance of tiger sharks, which can easily be spotted in the location’s shallow, crystal-blue waters. Alongside tiger sharks are equally fascinating bull sharks and the more docile nurse and lemon sharks, who round out Tiger Beach’s exquisite aquatic ecosystem. More experienced divers will also appreciate shark dives off the coast of Tobago. Regarded by many marine biologists as a veritable shark sanctuary, Tobago is home to schools of reef and nurse sharks, who frequent the waters of the island because of its strong currents. Prepare to be amazed at the coral reefs that surround the island and the multitude of colorful fish that call them home. Maldives An archipelago of immense beauty, Maldives is a tropical wonder that boasts some of the most exciting shark tourism in the Indian Ocean. Shark enthusiasts heading to the nation should consider a stop at Fuvahmulah. An atoll located in Maldives’ southernmost region, Fuvahmulah has the distinction of being relatively unknown, making it less crowded than other shark diving locations. Tiger sharks reign supreme in these waters and share the region with several other shark species, including threshers and hammerheads. Another great spot for shark diving is Fotteyo Kandu in the Vaavu Atoll. A narrow channel replete with caves and rocky overhangs, Fotteyo Kandu’s tidal currents attract whitetip reef sharks and grey reef sharks, who travel to the location to feed off schools of snappers and barracudas. Mexico Mexico’s coastline sits on both the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, giving it one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. One of the best locations to spot sharks in Mexico is Cabo San Lucas, which rests on the Sea of Cortez. While Cabo San Lucas is known for its expensive resorts and booming nightlife, the Sea of Cortez has its own reputation as a natural wonderland. Due to its distinctive climate and geography, the Sea of Cortez is a haven for aquatic life, including bull sharks, hammerheads, blues, and whale sharks. While diving with these sharks, visitors to Cabo San Lucas will also get to check out some of the Sea of Cortez’s other aquatic residents, which include cute sea lions, tropical fish, and even whales. You May Also Like: Tropical Destinations That Are Protecting the Environment Yucatan Peninsula Swimming with majestic whale sharks is an unmissable experience when in the Yucatan Peninsula. At the confluence of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea rests the Yucatan Peninsula, a top-tier destination for shark enthusiasts. The waters of the Yucatan are populated by peaceful whale sharks, filter-feeders who eat plankton that live near the ocean’s surface. Since the sharks are so close to the surface, visitors hoping to get better acquainted with these gentle giants only need to wear snorkeling equipment to swim alongside them. Two of the best destinations in Mexico for swimming with whale sharks are Cancun and Isla de Mujeres. While Cancun needs no introduction — being one of the top beach resorts in the world — few travelers have had the pleasure of experiencing Isla de Mujeres’ laidback vibes. Both Cancun and Isla de Mujeres offer amazing aquatic beauty, and are known for their turquoise waters that are also home to sea turtles, manta rays, and a variety of colorful tropical fish. Divers can also explore the unusual MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum, a collection of over 500 underwater sculptures that now serve as the home to countless species of fish and seagrass. FAQs: Q: Are there any safety precautions to take when engaging in shark tourism? A: Prioritize safety by following guidelines from experienced dive operators, including proper equipment use and understanding shark behavior. Q: What time of the year is best for shark tourism in the Maldives? A: Optimal months for shark enthusiasts visiting the Maldives are from November to March when the water conditions are favorable, offering increased shark sightings. Q: Are there any specific regulations for shark tourism in French Polynesia? A: It’s essential to be aware of and adhere to local regulations regarding shark tourism, ensuring a responsible and sustainable experience. Q: What is the best time of day for shark dives in the Caribbean? A: Consider scheduling shark dives in the Caribbean during early mornings or late afternoons for optimal visibility and increased chances of encountering diverse shark species. Q: Are there any educational programs for tourists interested in shark conservation? A: Some shark tourism destinations offer educational programs, providing tourists with insights into shark conservation efforts and the role they can play in protecting these marine species. Q: Are there alternatives to shark cage diving for those seeking a different experience? A: Yes, some locations offer alternative shark encounters, such as snorkeling and boat tours, providing options beyond traditional cage diving experiences. Know of any other destination where visitors can swim with sharks? Let us know in our comments section below!
