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Close encounters with Caribbean reef sharks

From the more than 500 species of sharks, the tropical waters of Sint Maarten are home to at least 33. Come diving with us to encounter some of these iconic sharks. The Caribbean reef and nurse shark are the most common to see during the dives in Sint Maarten. Very rarely we also see Caribbean sharpnose sharks, tiger sharks, and even great hammerheads! Other elasmobranchs, such as the southern stingray and the majestic eagle ray, are also common in our waters. On the SXM Sharks page, you can find infographics with lots of cool and didactic facts about some of these species!

The shark dive site

We chose a specific location to make the experience as safe as possible for the sharks and our guests. The place we encounter the sharks is a sandy area in 55ft depth, away from other tourist activities and dive sites. There is no coral reef to damage, meaning we can comfortably kneel on the sand and watch the sharks swim by, without causing damage to the environment.

Description of the shark dive

To participate in the shark dive, you will need to take part in a two-tank dive with us or have dived with us previously. On a shark diving day, we will normally do one dive in the marine park, where you are likely to see sharks gracefully swimming around the reefs, followed by a surface interval in a very calm and beautiful bay, where snacks will be provided. The second dive will be a dedicated shark dive, in which you will have the opportunity to get much closer to the sharks.

When we arrive at the shark dive site, divers will descend as a group and will be instructed to kneel and stay in a certain position on the sea bottom. When the sharks turn up, they will approach the group and swim very close to the divers, allowing for memorable encounters and excellent photo opportunities. Anyone who has visited The Bahamas, or other famous shark dives, will be familiar with the procedures. The shark dive will last 35 minutes.

We will also provide an extensive briefing about sharks, the challenges they face, and what we can do to help contribute to their conservation.

Safety

After traveling all over the world to dive with a variety of iconic shark species, we know how to conduct a safe and responsible shark dive. Safety is our number one priority and our team of experienced divemasters and instructors will look after you at all times, while you have fun and enjoy epic encounters. When taking part in the shark dive you will be required to wear a full-length wetsuit for safety reasons. We have these available at the dive shop and they are included in the cost of the dive.

What sharks do we see?

The sharks we encounter most are Caribbean reef sharks and nurse sharks. Both species are common within the Caribbean and are likely to approach divers in close proximity making diving with them a fantastic experience. Occasionally, we get to see other species too!

The shark dive is especially good for underwater photographers and videographers as you will get close enough to get awesome images and can repeat the dive numerous times until you get the shots you are after.