Whale Shark Diving

The whale shark--often known as the gentle giant--is the largest shark in the sea. It is also quite rare and scientists have only just begun to explore how these gigantic creatures live, migrate, and breed. In fact, up until 20 years ago, there were only about 300 whale shark sightings recorded. These days, with more advanced technology and research tools, scientists and the occasional sports diver can get a good glimpse of the whale shark if they know where to look.

The whale shark, or Rhincodon typus, is typically found swimming in warmer or tropical waters throughout the world. Though their size can be daunting, the whale shark is actually quite harmless. This is due to the fact that they are filter feeders, which means that they intake seawater and small sea organisms through their gills. The sea organisms nourish the shark and the sea water provides oxygen. For the commercial divers, some of the best places to come face to face with this ocean behemoth are under and around the Galapagos Islands.

Diving with Whale Sharks

There are many organizations that offer trips to the Galapagos, specifically for the chance to dive with whale sharks. While nature is unpredictable and no guarantees can ever be made when it comes to animal sightings, whale sharks tend to regularly frequent this area, so the chances of seeing one are better than in other locations. Diving in the Galapagos is typically reserved for only the most advanced divers as the current can sometimes be rough and dangerous.

If you are particularly interested in whale sharks, but are not yet up to the challenge of swimming with them, there are many interesting sites on the Internet that can give you the most current information and statistics on these giant creatures. Certain research programs have developed a tagging system for a number of whale shark and more is being learned about them every day. You can even adopt a tagged whale shark, and your donation will most often go to further research and conservation efforts.