When you’re spending time by the ocean, it’s easy to pass the days lounging on the sand with a magazine or your favorite book. However, consider a shark diving tour if you’re craving a unique and thrilling adventure. Some people are discouraged from enjoying this excursion due to commonly held fears about these magnificent sea creatures. Here’s a quick list to help you overcome your hesitation.

3 Pointers to Know Before Going Shark Diving

1. They Don’t Want to Eat You

These creatures are inaccurately portrayed in Hollywood movies, and they aren’t actively seeking humans to eat. Their foods of choice have a high fat content, like tuna and seals. For many species of sharks, humans aren’t considered food because they’re larger and seen as too much of a threat to pursue. Instead, shark bites are likely the result of curiosity as these marine animals can’t identify prey with anything but their teeth.

2. You Can Remain Discrete

Shark eyes are sensitive to light, so they’re attracted by the gleam of metallic items, like jewelry because they resemble the scales of shimmering fish. If you don’t want to draw attention to yourself, remove rings, earrings, and necklaces, and cover pale skin with a wetsuit or rash guard. If you’re going shark diving, stay calm and collected as these animals are more responsive to vibrations in the water than visuals.

3. Most Sharks Are Harmless

When you think of these creatures, you likely think of predatory species, like great white and tiger sharks. However, over a hundred species roam the seas, and the majority of them won’t hurt you. Most sharks are smaller than people, and some of the biggest survive by filter-feeding on plankton. In some areas of the world, such as South Africa, people practice shark diving with harmless native species outside of a cage.

If you’re ready to overcome your inhibitions and swim with these interesting creatures, turn to Hawaii Shark Encounters in Haleiwa for the ultimate shark diving experience. This local tour company provides kamaaina and visitors with the necessary dive gear and cameras as well as a fresh water shower after the adventure. Their PADI-certified instructors will ensure your safety and educate you about the importance of ocean stewardship. View their gallery of past excursions online, or call (808) 351-9373 to schedule your shark diving adventure.