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Diving responsibly with sharks

Observe - don’t disturb

Information supplied by Andy Cobb

1. Keep out of the caves, gullies, caverns, sandy patches and overhangs, where the sharks are resting.
2. Don’t block the shark’s exits or wedge the shark towards the reef
3. Respect the shark’s space and approach cone limitations to be accepted for a memorable encounter
4. The sharks are often inquisitive. Should a shark approach , breathe slow and easy, keep still, do not use hands to maintain buoyancy and ENJOY the privilege.
5. A fast moving shark can be an agitated shark. Stay together and move with a slow and steady rhythm, keep relaxed and move away if necessary.
6. Respect and enjoy the shark, view so that they are undisturbed for the next group to enjoy.
7. Sharks are masters of their environment, we are not in their food chain. Respect means understanding the marine rhythm and blend with the shark’s environment.

Prepared by: A.C.R. Cobb                    Artwork by: TECHNO DECYAN              Reviewed by: Dr. Erich Ritter

More Shark Info

KWAZULU-NATAL NATURE CONSERVATION SERVICE

Shark Guide Code of Ethics

The minimum qualification for KZNNCS shark diving guides is Divemaster. 

KZNNCS shark guides acknowledge the importance of diving responsibly with sharks and have the knowledge and skill necessary to brief and control divers whilst diving with Elasmobranchii.

They will be committed to improving guiding skills and ensuring the safety of the divers and that Elasmobranchii are not hurt, harassed, disturbed or interfered with in any way.

The guides will promote the necessity to conserve and respect shark and supply accurate information.

KZNNCS shark guides will abide by all National, regional and  local conservation laws and regulations and they will also  abide by regulations of their controlling body i.e. Dive Master or Instructor standards and code of ethics.  They will have current paid up certification and indemnity insurance.

KWAZULU-NATAL NATURE CONSERVATION SERVICE

Shark Guide Code of Conduct

         1.A shark guide will recognise unsatisfactory conditions for diving with shark i.e. low visibility, unusual marine activities such as the sardine migration.

2.The guide will follow The Guide for “Diving Responsibly with Sharks”. Do not enter the shark resting zones, their space or their approach and following cone zones.

3.No feeding by any method to attract shark.

4.No chasing, touching, riding (i.e. whale shark) or any form of harassment.

5.Camera operators to stay out of the shark’s space i.e. approach cones and rest areas for photographs. Photographers need to be accepted by the shark and the shark will adjust their space and come closer for photographers. 

6.The POD (or any similar device) is unnecessary for recreational shark diving and is extreme harassment if used on shark, as it chases them away and they will not return.

7.Self policing and reporting unacceptable practices is part of the shark guides responsibility in protecting the shark, to ensure they remain a sustainable resource.

Prepared by: Andrew C. R. Cobb.

Find out more about sharks in general

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