Shark conservation is crucial to maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, and initiatives like the One Shark Project help prevent unnecessary shark culling by providing scientific data to replace fear-driven responses with informed management. At SXM Divers, when we’re not diving with sharks, we’re proud to collaborate with this pioneering initiative, founded by Professor Eric Clua and led locally by Hadrien Bidenbach, to conduct regular shark tagging expeditions in Saint Martin (SXM). Launched in 2020 in response to shark incidents, this project is dedicated to deepening scientific understanding of tiger sharks—key apex predators in the Caribbean—by tracking their numbers, migrations, and genetic profiles. Our goal is to enhance shark conservation, support informed management, and maintain healthy ocean ecosystems while minimizing risks to humans.

Through hands-on scientific fishing expeditions, we’ve developed effective, nonlethal techniques to target tiger sharks exclusively. Once caught, our team—alongside researchers—records the shark’s length and sex, collects DNA samples from their dorsal fins, and tags them with PIT tags before release. This work builds a growing database that tracks individual sharks, aiding in population estimates, risk management, and ecological preservation efforts. Supported by institutions like the École Pratique des Hautes Études and local stakeholders, the One Shark Project fosters a Caribbean-wide network to monitor and manage shark populations responsibly.

Our involvement reflects SXM Divers’ commitment to marine science and stewardship in Sint Maarten. Now, we’re excited to offer our clients the chance to become citizen scientists and join us for a full day of shark tagging! By fishing tiger sharks with the One Shark Project team, you’ll play a direct role in gathering critical data—helping take skin samples, and contributing to a project that enhances safety for ocean users and protects these incredible creatures. Explore the waters of SXM with us, support Professor Clua’s vision and Hadrien’s leadership, and be part of a movement that balances human safety with the conservation of our amazing marine life.