Freediving with sharks offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Sharing the underwater realm with these majestic creatures can be an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the beauty and grace of some of the ocean’s most fascinating predators. In this article, we will explore the thrilling world of freediving with sharks and delve into the characteristics and captivating facts about some of our favourite shark species encounters during some of our dives: the Whale Shark, Great Hammerhead Shark, Sevengill Shark, Tiger Shark, Pyjama Shark, and Blue Shark.
Responsible Freediving with Sharks: Experiencing Extraordinary Interactions
Freediving with sharks is an extraordinary adventure that requires a high level of responsibility and respect for these magnificent creatures and their natural environment. Before embarking on a freediving excursion, it is essential to equip yourself with knowledge about each species and follow ethical guidelines to ensure both your safety and the welfare of the sharks.
During interactions with sharks, it is crucial to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disrupting their natural behaviour. Remember that you are a guest in their world, and observing their behaviours from a distance allows for more authentic and meaningful encounters. Avoid touching or chasing the sharks, as this can cause stress or provoke defensive reactions.
1. The Whale Shark:
The Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest cartilaginous fish species in the world. Despite its massive size, it is known for its calm nature and filter-feeding diet. These sharks can grow up to lengths of over 40 feet (12 metres) and can weigh more than 20 tons. The Whale Shark’s distinctive pattern of pale dots and stripes on its dark grey-blue body makes it an enchanting sight underwater. It is a highly sought-after encounter for freedivers due to its non-aggressive behaviour and quiet demeanour. Swimming alongside these gentle giants offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to witness their colossal presence and unique feeding behaviour.
Photograph: Peter Marshall2. The Great Hammerhead Shark:
The Great Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran) is renowned for its unique, T-shaped head, which gives it exceptional sensory capabilities. With a head width that can exceed 3.3 feet (1 metre), this species possesses a remarkable electroreceptive system, allowing it to detect the slightest electrical signals emitted by prey. Great Hammerhead Sharks can grow up to 20 feet (6 metres) in length and are known for their impressive agility and predatory prowess. Freedivers have the opportunity to observe their sleek and powerful movements, providing a thrilling and captivating interaction. As one of the larger of the shark species, it’s best to encounter these graceful creatures with an experienced guide. They are opportunistic feeders and very fast! Make sure to dive within your limits with experienced buddies and guides.
Photograph: Peter Marshall3. The Sevengill Shark:
The Sevengill Shark (Notorynchus cepedianus), also known as the Broadnose Sevengill Shark, is a primitive species that roams the coastal waters of various regions. What sets this shark apart from most others is its distinctive seven gill slits, while most sharks have five. Growing up to 10 feet (3 metres) in length, Sevengill Sharks have a prehistoric appearance and are often encountered by freedivers in kelp forests or rocky reefs. Their scavenging tendencies and relative fearlessness make for intriguing underwater interactions, allowing for close observation of their graceful movements. Until recently Cape Town has been a hotspot for encounters with these enigmatic animals. Due to various changes in the ecosystem, in particular the predation of orca in the region, encountering them has become a rare occurrence. When given the chance, you can enjoy a quiet swim alongside a living fossil, as always, being sensitive to the individual’s personal space and presence in the water.
4. The Tiger Shark:
The Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is a powerful and strikingly patterned predator that can reach lengths of up to 16 feet (5 metres). Named for its dark stripes resembling those of a tiger, this shark species has a reputation for being one of the ocean’s most formidable hunters. Known for their diverse diet and ability to consume almost anything, Tiger Sharks are often encountered during freediving expeditions, showcasing their curiosity and inquisitive nature. Freedivers have the opportunity to witness the sleek bodies and striking patterns of Tiger Sharks up close. As with the hammerhead, it is best to only attempt tiger shark encounters with trained and experienced guides. Some things to consider is water clarity (visibility) shark behaviour (are they feeding? If so, their behaviour is more erratic) and your experience level. Under the right circumstances, tiger sharks make for some of the most impressive freediving experiences!
5. The Pyjama Shark:
The Pyjama Shark (Poroderma africanum) is a small and visually captivating shark species found along the coasts of South Africa. With a maximum length of around 3 feet (1 metre), these sharks are known for their distinct dark bands across their bodies, resembling the patterns on a pair of striped pyjamas. Pyjama Sharks are relatively docile and pose no significant threat to humans, making them an ideal species for freedivers to observe up close. The Pyjama shark became famous as the antagonist in the Academy Award winning film My Octopus Teacher. But even though these small sharks pose a real threat to an octopus, for a freediver they are an interesting and interactive encounter.
6. The Blue Shark:
The Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) is a beautiful pelagic species known for its striking blue coloration and sleek, streamlined body. These sharks can grow up to 12 feet (3.8 meters) in length and are known for their long, slender tails, enabling them to swim with remarkable agility and speed. Blue Sharks are highly migratory and can be found in various oceanic regions across the globe. While encounters with Blue Sharks during freediving expeditions are less common than with other species as one generally needs a boat to get to the open water where they roam, they offer a thrilling opportunity to witness the elegance and grace of these open-water predators. Their curiosity and inquisitive nature can lead to exhilarating underwater interactions, providing a unique perspective into their oceanic realm.
A Thrilling Journey into the Depths
Freediving with sharks is a highly recommended adventure that allows us to witness the beauty, grace, and power of these incredible creatures. By adhering to responsible practices, we can ensure the safety and preservation of both sharks and their ecosystems.
Remember to approach these interactions with respect, maintaining a safe distance, and avoiding any actions that may distress the sharks. By immersing ourselves in their world and observing their behaviours from a distance, we can witness their true magnificence.
Photograph: Jean Marie GhislanEach species, from the gentle giants of the Whale Shark to the formidable hunters like the Tiger Shark, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. By embracing the opportunity to engage with these creatures in their natural environment, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of marine life and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these incredible species for generations to come.
So, gear up, dive in, and embark on a thrilling journey into the depths to witness the magic of freediving with sharks. With responsible practices and a sense of wonder, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime and develop a profound connection with the fascinating world beneath the waves.