Shark Cage Diving

Picture yourself submerged in the ocean. Your breathing is slow and steady, assisted by an oxygen tank, and the quiet of the water surrounds you. Your muscles are slightly tense, aware that the deep can hold certain dangers. A movement catches your eye. A shape comes toward you. Your heart begins to pound as you lay eyes on a white shark, swimming in your direction. The thrill is real and your adrenaline begins to flow, but you are safely inside a shark cage and out of harm's way.

Shark cage diving is becoming increasingly popular in this thrill-seeking society. It allows those who are interested in sharks to observe these animals in their natural habitat. The cage provides the necessary protection and security, but gives divers a close-up view of sharks that they would not otherwise get. If you are interested in ocean life and sharks, perhaps you might consider shark diving as your next vacation.

What to Expect on Your Cage Dive

Once you have booked your trip and have acquired the correct gear, you may be wondering what to expect. At the start of each trip, most diving instructors will give you comprehensive safety training. They will explain the features of the boat, the diving apparatus and the cage. In many cases, passengers will have to complete a practice cage dive to ensure their comfort level once they get out into the ocean.

Once you are at the correct dive site, the cage will be lowered into the water. Regulation cages are equipped with special floating and stabilization devices designed to withstand the force of a shark hit and any rough water. Chum or decoys are then put into the water to attract sharks and, after a bit of time has passed, divers will be lowered into the cages. Depending upon the boat and cage capacity, two to four divers will be in a cage at one time. With any luck after all of these preparations, you will soon get a good view of a mighty shark.