Last month a scuba diver, Austrian Markus Groh was fatally attacked by a bull shark during a photoshoot in the Bahamas. This represents the first reported fatal shark attack on a scuba diver resulting from a commercially organised shark diving expedition.
A crew were filming tiger sharks and lemon sharks at Tiger Beach, Grand Bahama, without cages for the production ‘Shark Angels’ aimed at changing the public perception of the creatures which are being pushed towards extinction. The images of 3 young women in the water surrounded within inches by several supposed man-eaters is the kind of picture that can raise consciousness and alter popular misconceptions about sharks and such were the goals of the shoot.
Sharks have been in existence on this planet for over 450 million years predating the the best known land based dinosaurs and as highly developed and successful predators, play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Yet with more than 100 million sharks killed every year the human race is driving them to oblivion.
Shark diving is becoming an increasingly popular activity the more we learn about these creatures and the more their numbers dwindle. As with any underwater activity and dealing with any potentially dangerous creature, the activity carries an element of risk; something that all participants are aware of. Yet those reputable operators who regularly conduct such dives take all steps to ensure the conditions are controlled and uniform thereby maximising the safety of their customers.
However, it is precisely because these creatures are so powerful and such efficient hunters that there is a great thrill in sharing the water with them. The risk remains more perceived than actual and certainly no more than other seemingly more benign pursuits like hiking, horse-riding or rugby to name a few.
Read more about our recommended options here:
South Africa’s Ultimate Shark Diving Adventure!
For bookings, please send us an email or call our PADI 5 Star Dive Centre in Phuket – 66 (0)83 505 7794.