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I've Dived With Sharks Over 40 Times — Here's What I've Learned

By Marisa Martinez,

26 days ago

Hey, I'm Marisa! I have a passion for snorkeling and diving and have dedicated the past few years to exploring the world of sharks . In 2020, I had a life-changing experience during a family trip to Mexico where I encountered 30-foot whale sharks. This encounter sparked my desire to push my limits, and I started seeking opportunities to dive with every shark out there. If there was a shark near me...I was swimming with it!

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0uIaOn_0uKxf8kc00 — Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

During my first dive with a tiger shark, I had to redirect the shark and, in my mind, I confidently pushed her away. In reality, my hand was shaking and I may have almost cried. It took some time to become accustomed to these amazing creatures, but along the way, I've gained valuable knowledge.

Throughout my shark diving journey, I've gained some insights that have not only increased my understanding of sharks and their behavior, but have also made my diving experiences safer and more fulfilling. Some of the discoveries even surprised me!

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1awC5L_0uKxf8kc00 — Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

Here are some of the most useful things I've learned while swimming with sharks.

1. Sharks Are Very Curious

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0oBe3L_0uKxf8kc00 — When humans enter a shark's habitat, it's common for these creatures to display curiosity and approach to investigate. Therefore, it's not unexpected if a shark swims up to greet you and perhaps even bump into you. Sharks have no boundaries!
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

2. Learning How To Redirect A Shark Is Important

3. You Shouldn't Wear Yellow Or White When Diving With Sharks

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0geqwr_0uKxf8kc00 — The vibrant colors in the water, like yellow or white, can attract sharks as they often associate these hues with brightly colored fish. Due to this association, sharks may occasionally mistake yellow or white fins for potential prey.
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

4. When Diving With Sharks, Get In The Water ASAP

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0ecR2L_0uKxf8kc00 — Sharks are extremely curious creatures. They won't give you time to check if your gear is ready or if you are prepared. You need to be alert and aware of your surroundings once you're in the water. The key is to look down immediately so you can have a good view from all angles.
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

5. Don't Splash And Look Like Prey

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0ByZNi_0uKxf8kc00 — When shark diving, it is crucial to refrain from making sudden movements or splashing. Those movements can mimic the behavior of injured marine creatures, potentially attracting sharks. It's essential to maintain composure, move deliberately, and avoid sudden or erratic motions. Remember this: Don't swim away like the movies teach!
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

6. Maintain Eye Contact With Sharks At All Times

7. Be Aware

8. Keep Camera Equipment Detached From Your Body

9. Don't Look For Shark Teeth Where The Sharks Were Just Fed

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0oTrwr_0uKxf8kc00 — It's exciting to discover a shark tooth. If you're searching for shark teeth, it's crucial to limit your search time to a few seconds at a time. Staying alert is one of the most important tips for shark diving, so looking for teeth shouldn't be your main focus.
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

10. If You Want To Dive With Sharks — Start With Whale Sharks

11. Sharks Recognize People — Especially The Shark Feeders

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1UPC4h_0uKxf8kc00 — One of the most fascinating things I've learned while shark diving is that they can recognize the people who feed them. During a swim-around (where you don't feed the sharks), I observed that the sharks kept approaching the people who normally feed them. The sharks were clearly looking to be fed! It was astonishing because everyone looked almost identical in their diving gear, yet the sharks were able to distinguish the feeders.
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

12. Check In On Your Dive Buddies

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2fY1gX_0uKxf8kc00 — Good diving practice always includes checking on your diving buddies, especially when shark diving. In addition to staying alert to your surroundings, it's important to make sure everything is ready for your dive and that you're prepared in case something goes wrong. I was unprepared the first time I saw a shark nip my friend's arm. Fortunately, it was just an exploratory bite and nothing more...thank goodness!
Marisa Martinez / Via BuzzFeed

13. Remember, They Are Predators

14. Lastly, Don't Be Afraid!

Would you ever dive with sharks? Let me know in the comment section below!

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