Shark Diving

Dive Into Adventure

Welcome to Swim With Sharks, your go-to source for unforgettable shark diving experiences. From beginner courses to advanced expeditions, we offer it all. Let’s explore the ocean together!

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach out to us if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Do I Need to be a Certified Diver?
Yes, previous diving experience is required for our advanced shark dives with nitrox. These dives are designed for more experienced divers due to the complex nature of the dive and the use of enriched air nitrox. Participants should have:
  1. Advanced Open Water Diver Certification:
    This ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge for deeper and more challenging diving conditions.
  2. Enriched Air Nitrox Certification:
    As we use nitrox for these dives, you must be certified in its use. Nitrox allows for longer bottom times, which is beneficial in shark diving, but requires specific training to use safely.
  3. Minimum Number of Logged Dives:
    We recommend having a certain number of logged dives (the exact number can vary) to ensure comfort and proficiency in the water. Experience in varied conditions is also beneficial.
  4. Good Physical and Mental Condition:
    Advanced dives can be physically and mentally demanding. Being in good health and having a calm, composed mindset is crucial, especially when diving with sharks.
  5. Recent Dive Experience:
    If it has been a while since your last dive, a refresher course might be necessary.
These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all our divers. If you’re interested in building your skills to participate in an advanced shark dive, we offer a range of courses and dives to help you prepare. Feel free to contact us for more information on getting started!
Can You Guarantee Safety in the Water?

At Swim With Sharks, we prioritize the safety of our divers above all else. Our experienced guides and rigorous safety protocols are designed to ensure that swimming with sharks is a thrilling yet secure experience. We work with experts in marine biology and employ proven shark behavior management techniques to minimize risks and maximize the safety of our participants. While no wildlife encounter can be completely without risk, we are proud of our impeccable safety record and are committed to providing you with a memorable and, above all, safe adventure

How Do I Prevent Sea Sickness?
Sea sickness, a form of motion sickness, occurs due to the movement of the boat on water. Here are some tips to help prevent it:
  1. Medication:
    Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or Bonine can be effective. It’s best to take them as a preventative measure, usually one hour before boarding. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
  2. Ginger:
    Natural remedies such as ginger in the form of candies, tea, or capsules can help alleviate symptoms.
  3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Lightly:
    Drink plenty of water and eat a light meal before your trip. Avoid heavy, spicy, or fatty foods.
  4. Focus on the Horizon:
    Keeping your gaze fixed on a stable point, like the horizon, helps your brain reconcile the movement it feels with the movement it sees.
  5. Fresh Air:
    Stay in well-ventilated areas where you can breathe fresh air. Avoid areas with strong odors, as they can worsen nausea.
  6. Position on the Boat:
    Staying in the middle of the boat where there is less motion can help. Try to stay on the deck rather than going below, where the movement is more pronounced.
  7. Rest Well Before the Trip:
    A good night’s sleep before your trip can help reduce susceptibility to sea sickness.
  8. Wristbands:
    Acupressure wristbands are a non-medical option that some find helpful. They apply pressure to a specific point on the wrist thought to reduce nausea.
Remember, everyone is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s a good idea to be prepared and know what options are available to you. If you’re prone to severe sea sickness, consult with a medical professional for the best course of action.
What Equipment Do I Need?

Nitrox Tanks, BCD, Regulator, Dive Computer, Full Black Wetsuit, Gloves, Hood, Mask, Fins, Dive Boots or Socks, SMB, Weights If Necessary.

Can I bring my own underwater camera or GoPro?

Personal underwater cameras and GoPros are allowed. However, it’s important to ensure they are securely attached to avoid losing them and to avoid disturbances to the Marine Life.

How Many Sharks Will I Encounter?

The number of sharks you’ll encounter can vary depending on several factors including the time of year, weather conditions, and natural shark behavior. At our Tiger Beach Excursions, it’s common to see multiple sharks during a dive, including Tiger Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Reef Sharks and sometimes other species like Hammerheads and Nurse Sharks. However, wildlife encounters in their natural habitat are unpredictable. On average, divers can expect to see anywhere from a few to a dozen sharks per dive in South Florida, but there can be days with fewer or even more sightings. We strive to provide the best possible experience, but please remember that every dive is unique and the number of shark sightings can’t be guaranteed. Our priority is to ensure a safe and respectful experience for both our divers and the sharks.

How Long is Each Dive?

Depending on your air consumption each dive can be between 40-45 minutes.

I am not a strong swimmer, can I Still Swim with Sharks?

Yes, non-strong swimmers can still enjoy shark swimming experiences. We cater to varying swimming abilities. For those not comfortable with deep water swimming or scuba diving, there are options like free diving or snorkeling. The snorkeling option typically does not require extensive swimming skills as you’ll be either floating on the surface or equipped with a personal flotation device (PFD) holding on to a secured line.

Moreover, our experienced guides and dive instructors will be with you at all times to ensure your safety and comfort. We also provide life jackets and other flotation devices to assist those who are not confident swimmers. It’s important to inform us of your swimming ability level beforehand, so we can tailor the experience to suit your comfort and safety needs.

Remember, your enjoyment and safety are our top priorities, and we are committed to providing an unforgettable, secure shark diving experience for all skill levels.

Should I Have Divers Insurance and Where do I Get It?

We highly suggest that anyone entering the water or traveling carry Divers Alert Network (DAN) Insurance. For further information and to obtain Divers Insurance, visit:  https://dan.org/membership-insurance/

What other marine life can we expect to see on a shark dive?

While sharks are the main attraction of our dives, you’ll likely encounter a fascinating variety of other marine life. This includes:

  • Various Fish Species: From colorful reef fish to larger species like groupers and barracudas.
  • Rays: Such as stingrays and manta rays, known for their elegant movements.
  • Coral Reefs: In reef areas, you’ll see an ecosystem teeming with life, including hard and soft corals and small reef inhabitants.
  • Crustaceans: Look out for crabs, lobsters, and shrimps in their natural habitats.
  • Mollusks: Octopuses, squids, and various shellfish add to the underwater diversity.
  • Sea Turtles: These serene creatures are a special sight if you’re lucky to encounter them.
  • Dolphins: They are occasionally spotted swimming near some dive sites.
  • Seabirds: While on the boat, keep an eye out for seabirds like gulls and pelicans.

The exact species seen will depend on the dive location and season, making each dive a unique experience.

The more I learn about sharks, the more I respect and admire them. They are truly remarkable creatures.

— Valerie Taylor