When people consider scuba diving, thoughts often turn to the ocean’s most formidable inhabitants: sharks. A widespread perception exists of sharks as dangerous predators, a view frequently amplified by media portrayals. This article offers a balanced, evidence-based perspective on the actual risks involved in the relationship between sharks and divers, providing factual information beyond sensationalism.
Understanding Shark Interactions
Sharks often interact with divers due to their natural behaviors, which typically involve curiosity or investigation rather than aggression. Sharks possess highly developed senses, including the ability to detect electrical fields emitted by other creatures, including humans. Most shark species are either indifferent or cautious around divers, often maintaining distance unless their curiosity is piqued.
Interactions can sometimes stem from mistaken identity, where a diver’s silhouette or movements in poor visibility might resemble potential prey. Environmental factors also increase interaction likelihood, including periods of low light, such as dawn and dusk, when some shark species are more active in hunting. The presence of bait or commercial fishing operations can also attract sharks to an area, potentially increasing encounters.
Assessing the Actual Risk
Shark incidents involving divers are statistically uncommon. In 2024, the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) reported 47 unprovoked shark bites globally, with only 8% involving snorkelers or freedivers.
To put this into perspective, the likelihood of a shark attack is significantly lower than many common daily risks. For example, people are more likely to be injured in a car accident, struck by lightning, or experience issues from bee stings. Even unprovoked incidents, where the shark initiates the interaction, are rare and frequently non-injurious.
Minimizing Encounter Potential
Divers can adopt several practices to reduce the likelihood of an unwanted shark encounter. Avoiding dives during dawn and dusk is advisable. It is also prudent to stay out of murky waters, where visibility is reduced for both diver and shark, potentially leading to misidentification.
Refrain from wearing shiny jewelry or accessories, as reflective items can attract a shark’s attention by mimicking fish scales. Divers should also avoid areas known for shark feeding activities or commercial fishing. Moving calmly and smoothly in the water, maintaining good buoyancy, and always diving with a buddy can further contribute to safety.
Handling a Close Encounter
If a shark approaches or exhibits unusual behavior during a dive, maintaining composure is important. Avoid sudden, erratic movements, as these can startle the shark or trigger a predatory response. Maintain eye contact with the shark, as showing awareness can deter an approach.
Slowly backing away is recommended if the shark comes too close. Thrashing or attempting to flee quickly can stimulate a shark’s chase instinct. If necessary, a dive camera or a non-threatening object can be used to create a physical barrier between the diver and the shark. Upon de-escalation, a slow, controlled ascent to the surface and an orderly exit from the water are the next steps.