Sharks are among the most fascinating marine creatures: powerful, elegant, and completely unjustly feared. For many divers, an encounter with them is the highlight of every diving adventure. However, anyone who wants to dive with sharks should observe some important rules. This article explains what beginners and professionals must always keep in mind to make this extraordinary experience safe, respectful, and unforgettable.
1. Choosing the right dive centre
The first step to a safe and successful shark dive is choosing a professional dive centre. When making your selection, pay attention to the following criteria:
- Certifications and experience: International standards such as PADI or CMAS stand for professional instruction. Good reviews and experienced guides are further quality indicators.
- Safety standards: Find out about emergency plans, the condition of rental equipment, and its maintenance intervals.
- Group size: Small groups offer more personal attention and increase safety, especially for beginners.
- Beginner-friendly options: Choose programmes that match your experience level. Avoid challenging dive sites with strong currents or great depths.
- Prior research: Watch videos and look at photos (on the website or social media channels) of the dive centre in advance, and read reviews from other divers.
2. Before the dive: The safety briefing
Every shark dive begins with a comprehensive briefing – a mandatory point that must never be skipped. It should cover the following aspects:
- Joint equipment check with your dive buddy
- Dive procedure (route, depth, duration)
- Behaviour in emergencies, e.g. running out of air or currents
- Hand signals for underwater communication
- Special behavioural rules when dealing with sharks: keep your distance, eye contact, behaviour when approaching
3. Behaviour underwater: Calm is everything
Your behaviour while diving has a decisive influence on how sharks perceive you. Basic rules for safe conduct:
- Stay calm: Avoid hectic movements. Dive in a controlled manner and glide evenly through the water.
- Buddy system: Always stay within sight, never dive alone.
- Communicate regularly: Use hand signals to avoid misunderstandings.
- Eye contact with sharks: You should always maintain eye contact with the shark while diving. This signals confidence.
- Maintain a vertical position: Stay upright in the water to appear larger.
4. Protection through equipment
Complete and well-chosen equipment not only protects against cold and injuries but can also prevent misunderstandings with sharks:
- Full coverage: Wear a hood, gloves, and booties. Exposed skin, such as on the hands or neck, can look like a wound underwater. Injured fish reveal their white flesh.
- Subtle colours: Dark wetsuits are less conspicuous. It’s best to have completely black equipment. Avoid shiny or bright equipment. Shiny jewellery must be removed before diving.
- Hoses: All hoses should be snug to prevent sharks from getting entangled.
- Additional equipment: A signal buoy, underwater whistle, and, if necessary, a knife increase safety.
- Photo equipment: Secure the camera properly, handle it calmly, and avoid using flash.
5. Understanding shark behaviour
If you know the behaviour of sharks, you can better assess their movements and react appropriately:
- Sharks are curious but usually shy. They generally avoid direct contact with humans.
- Avoid shiny objects or bright colours like yellow, as they can attract attention.
- Always keep sharks in sight; do not turn your back on them.
- Avoid loud noises or rapid movements – they could be perceived as a threat.
6. When sharks come too close
Although aggressive encounters with sharks are extremely rare, it is helpful to be prepared for anything:
- Stay calm and gently guide the animal away from you with your hand, camera, or an object – like a barrier. This should, of course, NOT be done near the shark’s mouth.
- Last resort: A controlled pressure (not a hit!) on the sensitive gill area can deter the shark – but only in an absolute emergency. The gills are one of the most sensitive weak points of sharks. The shark will understand that you know its weak spot and will be cautious.
An agitated shark often shows clear warning signs that may indicate possible aggression or an impending attack. These include lowered pectoral fins, a curved or tense body posture with an arched back, as well as rapid, unpredictable movements. An open mouth, rhythmic flaring of the gills, and a slightly raised snout are also typical signs of unrest. This so-called agonistic behaviour is frequently displayed by sharks when they feel threatened or want to defend their territory. In such moments, it is crucial to remain calm, keep your distance, and observe the shark closely to correctly assess the situation and react in a de-escalating manner. In such a case, you should simply leave the water as quickly as possible.
7. Dos and Don’ts when diving with sharks
✅ Dos
- Keep at least 2-3 metres distance.
- Stay calm and always keep the sharks in sight.
- Never dive alone – always stay with your buddy.
- Listen to the dive guide – they know the animals and the area.
❌ Don’ts
- Do not touch or feed sharks.
- Do not wear jewellery or bright colours.
- Do not swim away hectically – this can resemble prey behaviour.
- Do not behave provocatively
Fascination with responsibility
Diving with sharks is a unique experience when you prepare properly and behave respectfully. With the right equipment, calm behaviour, and a basic understanding of the animals’ behaviour, every dive will be safe and impressive. Those who encounter sharks with respect help improve their image and appreciate their role in the marine ecosystem – as fascinating, indispensable creatures of our oceans.