Yes, sharks do attack divers, whether provoked or unprovoked. However, attacks are extremely rare, as sharks do not view scuba divers as particularly appetizing prey. As such, diving with sharks cannot be considered a dangerous activity, although, like everything in life, some risks always exist.
In this article, I will look at the most common myths and misconceptions people have about these incredible creatures and reveal the truth behind how dangerous and unpredictable they can be.
MYTH: Sharks are mindless killing machines.
FACT: While it is true that sharks have been known to attack humans, they are not doing so out of malicious intent. In most cases, these attacks result from a shark mistaking a human for its natural prey. And even when a shark deliberately attacks a human, it is usually because the shark feels threatened or provoked in some way.
MYTH: All sharks are dangerous to scuba Divers.
FACT:There are more than five hundred species of sharks in existence. Nevertheless, around thirty have ever been known to deliver fatalities. Of the three principal types of sharks known to cause fatalities (great white, tiger, and bull shark), over my 30 years of diving, I have never seen any sharks belonging to any of these species in Sydney.
MYTH: You are more likely to be killed by a shark than by any other type of animal.
FACT: Actually, you are more likely to die from being struck by lightning or drowned in your bathtub than you are to be killed by a shark! Every year, there are an average of just five fatalities worldwide because of unprovoked shark attacks. In contrast, hundreds of people die each year from bee stings, dog bites, and snakebites – all far more common causes of death than being attacked by a shark.
A Look at Shark Attack Statistics
Scuba diving with sharks is a relatively safe activity, although it's important to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to minimize the chances of an encounter. It's important to note that most sharks are not aggressive towards humans, and most shark attacks occur when a shark mistakes a human for its natural prey or is provoked in some way. To further reduce the risk of a shark encounter, scuba divers should avoid areas with known shark populations, not dive alone, and always remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Although shark attacks can be serious when they occur, they are still extremely rare compared to other dangerous everyday occurrences, such as being struck by lightning. In 2021, there were 137 worldwide shark-human interactions and only twelve unprovoked attacks in Australia. Out of those 137 incidents, only 4% (5) involved individuals who were snorkelling or diving at the time. Therefore, while caution while scuba diving with sharks should always be taken, rest assured that the likelihood of an attack is low.
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FAQs
Shark diving, when conducted with experienced guides and under strict safety protocols, is incredibly safe. Sharks generally are not interested in humans, and incidents are extremely rare, especially in controlled environments like ours.
How safe is scuba diving with sharks? ›
However, attacks are extremely rare, as sharks do not view scuba divers as particularly appetizing prey. As such, diving with sharks cannot be considered a dangerous activity, although, like everything in life, some risks always exist.
How safe is free diving with sharks? ›
As a matter of fact, diving with sharks is not dangerous (according to the current scuba diving deaths per year data). Yes, the large pelagics are powerful creatures. But, the vast majority of the shark species are not aggressive towards humans.
Is it safe to be in the water with sharks? ›
In the US alone, the risk of death by drowning is approximately 3,000 times greater than being bitten by a shark, and the number of fatalities from boating accidents is more than 300 times greater. The comparatively low risk posed by diving with sharks is far outweighed by the reward.
Are sharks friendly to scuba divers? ›
Most sharks are cautious of divers although, over the years, sharks have become bolder around people because of baiting.
What if I see a shark while scuba diving? ›
For starters, if you do see one, do your best to remain calm and signal to others that a shark is nearby. If possible, move slowly and get out of the water for the time being. If you can't make a graceful exit, remember that the shark is not going to go out of its way to harm you.
What is the biggest danger in scuba diving? ›
One of the biggest dangers of scuba diving is running out of air. This can be prevented by regularly checking your air gauge and never diving beyond your certified depth limit. Another potential hazard is ascending too quickly, which can cause DCS.
Do sharks leave scuba divers alone? ›
In fact, providing it's done respectfully the odds of being attacked by a shark while scuba diving are minuscule.
Does anyone free dive with great white sharks? ›
Andre Hartman struggles to walk. But every day he dreams of going back to the ocean. For decades, he made an impressive career out of freediving with great white sharks. The South African daredevil survived numerous encounters with these ocean predators.
How safe is shark diving in Hawaii? ›
In the open waters, free from cages, sharks exhibit their natural, often peaceful behavior. This environment reduces stress for both sharks and divers, contributing to a safer encounter. Safety is paramount, and with a crew of seasoned professionals, you're in the best hands.
Let it have it – no catch is worth the risk of personal injury. If a shark begins to get too interested in you by coming closer and closer, the best strategy is to leave the water – swim quickly but smoothly, watching the shark all the time, with your dive partner close at hand.
What to do if a shark is chasing you? ›
Your best bet, if attacked, is to make the shark see you as a strong, credible threat. Usually, a hard blow to the shark's gills, eyes or snout (end of its nose) will cause it to retreat. These are really the only vulnerable areas on a shark. If you have a spear gun or pole, use it!
Should you make eye contact with a shark? ›
She explains, “When the shark gets closer, make sure you maintain eye contact and reach out your hand and lock your elbow. Then press your hand down, flat on top of the shark's head and follow through while pushing your body over and away from the predator.
How do I get over my fear of sharks while diving? ›
Follow these steps:
- Step One: Acknowledge and Accept Your Fear.
- Step Two: Learn the Facts.
- Step Three: Watch Shark Videos.
- Step Four: Focus on Your Motivation.
- Step Five: Speak to Someone Who Can Relate.
- Further Reading.
ESDs aim to overwhelm a shark's electro-sensory system. They emit electrical pulses (each one does so in a different way) that are supposed to repel the shark. So far, ESDs have been the most effective type of personal shark repellent.
What sharks get possessive of divers? ›
Lemon sharks get their name for being overtly jealous when scuba divers do not give them sufficient attention – no, not really, but it would have been a good story. The first dive with the lemon sharks felt somewhat like going on a blind date in a foreign country.
What to do if a shark approaches you scuba diving? ›
Let it have it – no catch is worth the risk of personal injury. If a shark begins to get too interested in you by coming closer and closer, the best strategy is to leave the water – swim quickly but smoothly, watching the shark all the time, with your dive partner close at hand.
Is scuba diving considered high risk? ›
The average diver's extra mortality is fairly low, ranging from 0.5 to 1.2 deaths per 100,000 dives. Table 1 aims to put the diving risk into perspective by comparing it with other activities.
When should you not scuba dive? ›
Respiratory and cardiovascular systems should be in good shape. All body airspaces must be normal and healthy. A person with heart trouble, a current cold or congestion or who has epilepsy, asthma, a serious medical problem, or who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, should not dive.
Is it safe to scuba dive with bull sharks? ›
It is worth remembering that sharks rarely bite humans, though, and the risk of being bitten by a bull shark is extremely low. Bull sharks are not an immediate threat to divers, though they should be treated respectfully. They are relaxed and confident around divers, passing by at close range.
