What to Do If You See a Shark While Snorkeling?
If you love oceans and are fascinated with incredible marine creatures living under the surface, then one thing we know for sure is that spotting sharks has been on your to-do list for a long time now! Sharks are powerful, mysterious, and gorgeous. However, they are also one of the most dangerous creatures that you can encounter while snorkeling. So in order to feel absolutely safe in their presence and not behave in an uncontrolled way, it becomes crucial for you to know what to do if you see a shark while snorkeling.
We will provide you with important information and tips here so that you can keep yourself safe along with making the most of your underwater adventure. Moreover, if you are still wondering where you should go to see sharks, then Fahal Island in Oman would be a great choice as it is famous for the sharks that visit the waters around the island. Mainly black tip reef sharks and lemon sharks can be spotted here. In addition to that, reefs here are in abundance and are quite diverse. Needless to say, Fahal Island is the perfect way to get close to marine life!
Do Sharks Attack Snorkelers?
The shark species you see while snorkeling in Fahal Island, Oman are essentially not dangerous. And even if a shark approaches you, it will just swim away without showing any aggressive behaviour or interest if you are not threatening it or not trying to hold onto its food. Pelagic species that can be dangerous to human beings are generally not present in shallow waters in the daytime. They come up from the deep to feed after dusk only.
But if you still spot a shark approaching you, then you can do the following to prevent an attack:
Go for the Nearest Safe Spot
It doesn’t mean that you have to head toward the beach; you can also swim toward a coral rock or sandbar. A shark finds it tough to easily attack you on very shallow ground.
Swim Rhythmically
It is not easy to do but surely worth trying if you can make smooth movements. Splashing makes you look as if you are in distress, thus increasing the chances of being attacked.
Seabed Movement
Depending on how far safety is, sometimes it is better to just dive off and go along a seabed to a shallower ground. Sharks can see you much easier on the surface, making vicious attacks!
Defend Yourself
It is difficult to read the body language of a shark in case you are encountering it for the first time. The best thing to do in this situation is to punch the snout or the areas around the gills or eyes as these are the most sensitive areas of any fish.
Maintain Eye Contact
You must know where is the potential danger to be able to defend yourself if there is a need. That’s why you need to keep your eyes on the shark. Make eye contact if it swims towards you. This is a clear sign for the shark that you aren’t a competitor for its food or a possible threat.
Is spotting sharks on your bucket list? Then choose MolaMola Diving Center for your next dive when you are in Muscat. We will take you to Fahal Island, which is also known as Shark Island, for the adventure of your life! During your vacations in stunning Oman, don’t forget to go for one of the finest diving experiences in the country that you can have in Fahal Island.
