If the idea of going on a shark tour or swimming with these creatures gives you a rush of adrenaline, you probably don’t have galeophobia. More commonly known as the fear of sharks, this condition isn’t something that has to rule your life or prevent you from enjoying a fun experience in the water.

What You Should Know About Galeophobia

What Is It?

People who experience this condition have more than a casual fear of sharks. It can cause people to avoid any situation that puts them in possible proximity of this creature, including swimming in oceans, beaches, and other bodies of water. People may even avoid going on boats, shark tours, or tourist attraction cruises to avoid being anywhere near these large aquatic animals.

Where Did It Originate?

Typically, this fear doesn’t stem from a shark encounter, but from something a person picked up vicariously, like a news report on television or a scene from a movie. This type of indirect contact can serve as triggers that stimulate fear to the point of extreme anxiety.

How Can You Manage It?

Managing the fear can be challenging; however, there are ways to conquer it if you want to go on a shark tour. Nothing is impossible if you take it slow.

Sharks don’t typically make meals of humans, and the odds of being bitten are extremely low. Most of these creatures eat fish or marine life, like clams. Acclimate yourself to aquatic conditions slowly. Swim with a friend in a shallow, clear body of water where you can see everything around you. Talk to experienced swimmers and divers about their shark experiences. The more you know about their interactions, the more in control you’ll feel when you’re in the water.

If you’re ready to conquer galeophobia, consider turning to Hawaii Shark Encounters in Haleiwa. This tourist attraction offers a variety of exciting excursions for marine life enthusiasts, including shark tours and cage dives. Safety is their priority, and you’ll quickly understand why the organization boasts a perfect record of zero incidences or accidents. Visit them online to learn more about their tours, or call (808) 351-9373 to book your reservation.