For decades, sharks have been regarded as feared predators—but how justified is this fear when it comes to diving with them? We take a sober look at the risks and debunk some myths.
Sharks: Dangerous predators or misunderstood animals?
The idea of encountering a shark underwater instinctively unsettles many people. Hollywood films like The White Shark have helped perpetuate the image of sharks as bloodthirsty man-eaters. But the reality is different: sharks are fascinating, mostly shy animals that usually show no interest in divers at all.
How often do shark attacks occur?
The statistics speak for themselves: According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) at the Florida Museum, there were only 57 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide in 2023—despite millions of dives each year. The number of fatal incidents was fewer than 10. For comparison: wasps, cows, and even toasters claim more lives per year.
Importantly, most of these attacks involve surfers or swimmers at the water’s surface—not divers. Underwater, sharks recognise humans as unfamiliar creatures and usually behave cautiously or indifferently.
| Merkmal | Insgesamt | Tödlich |
|---|---|---|
| Weltweit | 47 | 4 |
| USA | 28 | 1 |
| Australien | 9 | 0 |
| Ägypten | 1 | 1 |
| Malediven | 1 | 1 |
| Westsahara (Offener Ozean) | 1 | 1 |
| Thailand | 1 | 0 |
| Trinidad und Tobago | 1 | 0 |
| Französisch-Polynesien | 1 | 0 |
| Indien | 1 | 0 |
| Mosambik | 1 | 0 |
| Turks- und Caicosinseln | 1 | 0 |
| Belize | 1 | 0 |
Which shark species are relevant for divers?
Depending on the region, divers may encounter different shark species. The most common include:
- Reef sharks (e.g., blacktip or whitetip reef shark): curious but harmless
- Nurse sharks: nocturnal, peaceful
- Lemon sharks: usually calm, react relaxed to divers
- Bull sharks, tiger sharks, great white sharks: potentially dangerous but rarely encountered on dives without baiting
In professionally guided shark dives, close attention is always paid to the species, their behaviour, and the environment.
What influences safety when diving with sharks?
Whether a dive with sharks is safe depends on several factors:
- Diver behaviour: No sudden movements, no chasing, no touching
- Type of dive: Free encounter or feeding dive (the latter carries higher risks)
- Visibility and depth
- Experience of the guide and group
- Knowledge of shark behaviour
Feeding dives can condition sharks and lead to riskier behaviour—so they should only be organised by experienced professionals.
How do sharks behave towards divers?
Most sharks are shy. They often keep their distance or swim away when divers appear. Some circle the group out of curiosity but show no aggressive behaviour. Typical courtship or threat displays are easy to recognise (e.g., stiff swimming, abrupt changes in direction)—and a clear signal to retreat.
Calm, respectful behaviour underwater is the key to a safe encounter.
What do experts say?
“I’ve been diving with sharks for over 15 years—from reef sharks to bull sharks. I’ve never felt truly threatened. As long as you respect the animals, they are incredibly fascinating companions,” says Marie Köhler, a diving instructor and marine biologist from Munich.
The marine researcher Dr. Leon Vargas also emphasises:
“Sharks are not killing machines. Their role in the ecosystem is essential. Divers help correct this image through respectful encounters.”
Conclusion: Is diving with sharks dangerous?
No—at least not if done correctly. Diving with sharks carries a calculable, extremely low risk. Those who follow simple rules of conduct, rely on professional operators, and respect animal behaviour will experience one of the most impressive encounters in the underwater world—safely and sustainably.
Tip: Shark diving is not just an adventure but also a contribution to the protection of these animals. Those who have experienced sharks will advocate for their conservation—and that is more necessary than ever today.
