First-Timer Questions
Will Sharks Attack You?
The honest, reassuring answer backed by statistics: scuba divers are remarkably safe — and sharks are usually more scared of you.
No — sharks almost never attack scuba divers. We're not part of a shark's diet; they don't like our flesh. Most shark incidents involve swimmers and snorkelers at the surface, not divers. Underwater, sharks usually avoid us — we look like strange, noisy aliens. Statistically, it's safer to scuba dive than to swim in the sea.
- On the menu?
- No — we're not shark food
- Most incidents
- Surface swimmers/snorkelers
- Shark reaction
- Usually avoids divers
- Reality
- Sharks fear us more
Divers aren't on the menu
Sharks are hunters, but humans aren't their prey. We're too bony, too lean, and simply not what they're looking for. The rare bites that do occur are usually a case of mistaken identity — and almost all involve people at the surface, where a swimmer or snorkeler can resemble a shark's natural prey from below. Scuba divers, down in the water column, present nothing of the sort.
Underwater, you're the scary one
Here's the part that surprises people: when you're scuba diving, sharks are usually more frightened of you than you are of them. You're a large, unfamiliar shape, blowing clouds of noisy bubbles and making strange mechanical sounds. To a shark, you look like an astronaut or an alien. Most will keep their distance or glide curiously past — encountering one is a privilege divers travel the world for.
The statistics are reassuring
- Unprovoked shark incidents are extraordinarily rare — you're far more likely to be hurt driving to the dive site.
- The overwhelming majority of incidents involve surface activities, not scuba diving.
- Humans kill an estimated tens of millions of sharks every year — the imbalance of danger runs overwhelmingly the other way.
Dive respectfully and you'll be welcome. Observe marine life from a calm distance, never chase, corner or touch animals, and let them approach on their terms. Respectful divers have incredible, peaceful shark encounters all the time.
What about other marine life?
The same logic applies across the reef. Most marine animals are docile and want nothing to do with you. Injuries almost always come from divers touching or harassing wildlife — so the rule is simple: look, don't touch. Keep your hands to yourself and you'll have nothing to fear.
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Get the Diving Standard appFrequently asked questions
Do sharks attack scuba divers?
Almost never. Divers aren't part of a shark's diet, and the vast majority of rare shark incidents involve surface swimmers and snorkelers, not scuba divers. Sharks usually avoid divers.
Is it safer to scuba dive or swim with sharks around?
Statistically, scuba diving is safer than surface swimming when sharks are present, because most incidents happen at the surface where humans can be mistaken for prey.
What should I do if I see a shark while diving?
Stay calm, keep your breathing slow, and observe from a distance. Don't chase, corner or touch it. Most sharks are curious at most and will move on — it's a moment to enjoy, not fear.