Shark dives are part of unforgettable experiences, and at Dive Safari Master, we ensure that every shark dive is conducted with the utmost attention to safety. Sharks are majestic and powerful creatures, and while encounters can be awe-inspiring, safety for both divers and sharks is our top priority. Here’s how we organize our shark dives to guarantee a safe and respectful interaction with these fascinating animals.
PADI certified for your safety
We are proud of MYJPMarine liveaboard to be a PADI-certified dive center, which reflects our commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. We follow rigorous guidelines to ensure that all of our dive experiences, especially shark dives, are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Our experienced dive instructors and guides are trained to manage every aspect of your dive, ensuring that your safety is always our top priority.
Shark dive safety briefing
For information on how to stay safe during your shark diving adventure, we recommend downloading our comprehensive Shark dive safety briefing. This guide covers essential safety protocols, shark behavior tips, and entry/exit procedures to ensure you are fully prepared for your dive.
Download the briefing now to get all the details before your dive!
Understanding shark behavior
One of the cornerstones of safe shark diving is understanding the behavior of the sharks you’re likely to encounter. For instance, Oceanic Whitetips, known for their inquisitive nature, require respect and awareness from divers. Our team emphasizes that staying calm and avoiding erratic movements is key. We teach divers how to interpret shark behavior and respond appropriately.
During the dive, it’s important to avoid actions that might make you appear like prey. Staying composed, maintaining control of your buoyancy, and keeping your eyes on the shark are crucial. Should a shark approach closely, adopting a vertical position and using equipment like a camera or fins as a buffer helps maintain a safe distance. These strategies help create a safe and harmonious interaction between divers and sharks.
Pre-dive briefing and preparation
Before every shark dive, our guides conduct a thorough pre-dive briefing. This session covers everything from the species of sharks we may encounter to the specific diving protocols we follow. We provide insights into the natural behavior of sharks and offer tips on how to stay safe while enjoying the encounter.
A key part of this preparation is understanding how to enter and exit the water safely. Upon entering, divers are advised to descend to a depth of at least 5 meters as quickly and calmly as possible. This minimizes the likelihood of surface encounters with sharks, which tend to be more curious at the water’s surface. Additionally, we recommend against snorkeling or swimming near sharks (not only oceanic whitetip but all sharks), as these activities can invite unnecessary attention.
For safe exits, our divers follow an organized procedure where they resurface efficiently, often in pairs, while the rest of the group remains at a safe depth. Calm, deliberate movements are emphasized throughout to maintain a smooth and stress-free dive.
Photos by Alexey Komissarov, Daniel Torobekov
Supervision and group management
At Dive Safari Master, each shark dive is supervised by experienced dive guides who are trained in shark behavior. Our guides play an essential role in monitoring both the sharks and the divers to ensure that everything remains under control. Divers are encouraged to stay close to the group and avoid straying, as staying together reduces the risk of unexpected encounters and helps maintain the balance of the dive.
We also educate divers on how to gently guide sharks away if necessary, without being overly aggressive or causing distress to the animal. This allows for a peaceful and respectful experience for both the divers and the sharks.
Emergency preparedness
Although shark dives are generally very safe when conducted properly, we take extra steps to be prepared for any situation. Our dive boats are fully stocked with emergency equipment, including first-aid kits and emergency oxygen. Our team is trained to handle emergencies, and we follow strict protocols in case of any unexpected changes in shark behavior or environmental conditions.
If, during the dive, a shark’s behavior changes—for example, if it becomes more agitated or excited—our guides will calmly direct divers to either back away or leave the water in an orderly fashion. This ensures that the situation is handled safely and without panic.
Diving with sharks
Fascinating facts
Diving with sharks is both thrilling and educational. Here are some fascinating facts about sharks that make these encounters even more exciting:
Sharks are ancient creatures:
Sharks have been around for over 400 million years, making them older than dinosaurs.
They play a vital role in marine ecosystems:
As apex predators, sharks help maintain the balance of the ocean’s ecosystems by controlling the population of species below them in the food chain.
Sharks are not mindless predators:
Most shark species are cautious around humans, and attacks are extremely rare. In fact, you are more likely to be struck by lightning than bitten by a shark.
Over 500 species of sharks exist:
From the massive whale shark to the tiny dwarf lantern shark, sharks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each adapted to its unique environment.
Sharks have an incredible sense of smell:
They can detect blood in the water from miles away, but they are more likely to be curious than aggressive if they pick up a scent.
These amazing creatures deserve our respect and understanding, and diving with them allows us to witness their beauty firsthand.
Conservation and respect for sharks
At Dive Safari Master, we believe in responsible diving practices that support shark conservation. Sharks are vital to the health of our oceans, and every dive we conduct is done with respect for their natural environment. Our approach to shark diving not only provides a thrilling experience but also fosters awareness of the importance of shark conservation. We encourage divers to appreciate these creatures and contribute to their protection by following ethical diving practices.
Join us for a safe and thrilling shark dive
Diving with sharks can be a life-changing experience, and at Dive Safari Master, we take pride in offering safe, well-organized dives that allow you to enjoy these magnificent predators up close.
With our expert guidance, top-tier equipment, and commitment to safety, you can dive with confidence and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Book your shark diving adventure with us today and experience the thrill of diving with these incredible creatures in a safe and controlled environment.
Where to dive with sharks?
Choose one of our best- seller itineraries to join the team of more than 500 divers per year who enjoy shark diving with us.
Next steps for your scuba trip preparation:
Step-by-step all what you need to know before scuba trips starts.
Pick up from airport or your hotel, drop of after the trip – all is on us
Specially designed check-list to grab all essentials for the trip
