Oceanic White-tip Sharks (Carcharhinus longimanus)
Responsible environmental guidelines and code of conduct for scuba diving with oceanic white-tip sharks
The Red Sea is a well-known area for its conspicuous presence of sharks. A total of 49 shark species occur in the area encompassing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The oceanic white-tip (Carcharhinus longimanus) is a large shark found in tropical and subtropical oceans throughout the world.
The oceanic white-tip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus)
They are large and have stocky builds. Their dorsal fins are rounded and their pectoral fins are long and paddle-like, with white tips (hence the name). The color of their bodies vary depending on where they live. They are generally grayish bronze to brown, while their undersides are white to light gray.
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The Oceanic white-tip sharks are seasonal visitors to the Red Sea and usually appear in off-shore reefs. If you are lucky enough to dive with them please follow these guidelines.
DO
Knowledge is key, learn about shark behaviour, ecology and conservation
Use the mooring system
Listen carefully to pre-dive briefings; your local guide will let you know what to expect and how to react
Curious and wild predators - respect them! Keep an eye on the animal and be alert but not nervous
Dive during the day and avoid diving between dusk and dawn
Limit your observation to a maximum time of 30 minutes
Groups of divers should stay together and ideally remain at the same depth level as the shark, and in buddy teams
Keep a safe distance and check the water for oceanic's before entering
Enter/exit water in a quick and safe manner, via negative entry and minimize time at surface
Follow safe diving practices; wear a wet suit, maintain neutral bouncy, stay vertical if the shark is close to you, stay calm
Avoid sudden movements, stay alert, keep your eyes on the animal and NEVER turn/swim away from a shark
Take plenty of photos and Report Sightings
Report any violations to the authorities
DON'T
Conduct any kite surfing, water-skiing or any activities that involve zodiac / boat towing
Conduct any type of fishing; if you spot any fishing activity whilst diving; exit the water immediately
Use camera flash
Use selfie-sticks
Feed sharks; if you notice any shark feeding activities in the water EXIT the water immediately and report to the authorities
Conduct any skin/free diving or swimming in their area
Use underwater acoustic signalling devices
Try to touch the animal, the shark might become defensive and attack
Chase or harass the shark
Authors:
Kaila Wheatley Kornblum
RED SEA PROJECT™
Download your FREE copy in High-Resolution of the Code of Responsible environmental guidelines and and code of conduct for scuba diving with oceanic white-tip sharks (Carcharhinus longimanus) and more from our E-Library on the Red Sea Sharks Project section.
