I've Dived With Sharks Over 40 Times — Here's What I've Learned

When humans enter a shark's habitat, it's common for these creatures to display curiosity and approach to investigate. Therefore, it's not unexpected if a shark swims up to greet you and perhaps even bump into you. Sharks have no boundaries!

When redirecting a shark, it's crucial to push down and away from your body, rather than pushing up on their head, which would cause their mouth to open! By pushing down, you can guide the shark to swim around naturally. 

The vibrant colors in the water, like yellow or white, can attract sharks as they often associate these hues with brightly colored fish. Due to this association, sharks may occasionally mistake yellow or white fins for potential prey.

It is important to assert your dominance and appear large to the shark by maintaining eye contact and following the shark with your body and eyes. Following the shark all the way through until it swims away is vital, since it can quickly turn the second you drop eye contact.

When chumming to attract sharks, the sharks will head straight for the bait and continuously circle the food source. Sharks can quickly emerge from the depths and swim around the divers to reach the bait. While it is impressive to witness shark feeds, it is important to frequently check around yourself, as they can appear from unexpected directions.

One of the greatest thrills of shark diving is being able to film sharks. However, sharks can mistake camera equipment for food and might bite it, swimming off with the camera. Usually, the sharks will drop the equipment from their mouths. It's better to be safe than sorry and keep the camera detached from your body in case a shark decides to take a nibble.

The whale shark, a gentle giant of the sea, is undisturbed by human interaction. Despite their imposing size, these magnificent creatures are slow swimmers, allowing for safe and amazing interactions. Many dive companies offer guided experiences, ensuring a memorable swim with them.

One of the most fascinating things I've learned while shark diving is that they can recognize the people who feed them. During a swim-around (where you don't feed the sharks), I observed that the sharks kept approaching the people who normally feed them. The sharks were clearly looking to be fed! It was astonishing because everyone looked almost identical in their diving gear, yet the sharks were able to distinguish the feeders.

Sharks are powerful and formidable predators. It is important to recognize that these creatures should not be underestimated or mistaken for docile animals. Their behavior and environment should be approached with caution and respect.

Movies like Jaws and 47 Meters Down have contributed to the negative reputation of sharks, but with the right knowledge and equipment, shark diving can be an absolutely awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.