Although these apex predators are dangerous, some people are just curious to know what they are like out in the open. So if you are a daredevil who is up for a challenge of a lifetime, swimming with sharks is definitely it. Here are 5 top spots to go to if you plan to get up close with these scary creatures.
Pulau Sepoi, Tioman Island, Malaysia
Just a 3-hour drive across the Causeway and a quick boat ride bring you to the many beautiful islets surrounding Tioman island. Pulau Sepoi, in particular, boasts many large corals which are the perfect hiding spots for Nurse Sharks to take their afternoon nap. These slow-moving bottom-dwelling sharks are mostly harmless and can grow up to 14 feet.
Shark Bay, Koh Tao, Thailand
As the name suggests, the bay is a hotspot for Blacktip Reef Sharks and the magnificent Whale Sharks which is the largest known fish species; weighing 21,000kg on average. Shark Bay is also one of the more affordable spots to dive and swim with sharks with many tour guides available to whisk you off on a full-day of snorkelling.
Comets Hole, Lord Howe Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Comets Hole is tucked away in one of the seven wonders of the natural world – The Great Barrier Reef. This freshwater formed hole is full of marine life making it a great place for those underwater Instagram shots. You will be surrounded by sea creatures like Lined Catfish, Coral Gobies, Bull Rays and Galapagos Whaler sharks, a highly inquisitive breed that is highly likely to come by for a photo opp.
Belongas Bay, Lombok, Indonesia
Belongas Bay is worth the two-hour boat ride from Bali with its picture-perfect beach shaded by palm trees with mountains looming in the background. It is home to the dive site – ‘The Magnet’ – one of only three places in the world where you can see both the Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks and the Great Hammerhead Sharks.
Nadi, Fiji
If you’re a thrill-seeker, book your next trip to Fiji’s main island, Nadi. It is a great destination for travellers to get close to over eight species of sharks. In its clear blue waters, you can encounter Tiger Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Nurse Sharks and huge Bull Sharks which are widely considered by experts as the most dangerous shark species.
Pictures by Fiji Pocket Guide, Thomas Kotouc, Max Bottinger & The Raid Ocean