One of the most popular places in the world to shark cage dive, the tiny outcrop of Isla Guadalupe sits 150-miles off the Baja California coast in the Central Pacific Ocean. Shark cage diving is a one-of-a-kind experience, drawing thrill-seekers, shark enthusiasts, and scientists to Guadalupe Island between August and October every year.
But what about other famous destinations such as South Africa or Australia, where shark cage diving was originally conceived? Guadalupe has overtaken them as the best place in the world to shark cage dive, and here's why.
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1.There are huge numbers of sharks
Guadalupe Island boasts higher densities of great white sharks than anywhere else in the world. As many as 250 sharks gather here to breed each year, attracted by the healthy populations of fur seals and sea lions that thrive in the nutrient-rich waters.
2. The sharks are reliable
The sharks at Guadalupe arrive with surprising regularity, and individuals known to the boat crews can be recognized year after year. The young males arrive early in the season, putting on quite a display as they bump the cages and harass each other. As the season progresses, larger individuals arrive until the huge females make an appearance at the end of October and the serious mating action begins.
3. Guadalupe is accessible
Compared to other well-known cage diving destinations, Guadalupe is relatively easy to reach from the US. Liveaboards depart from San Diego or from Ensenada in Baja California, Mexico, and the journey out to the island takes around 24-hours. Most boats offer a 5-day itinerary with 3 days of cage diving.
4. The dive conditions are good
Shark season coincides with the calmest seas around Guadalupe and water temperatures are generally between 70 and 75F (21 to 24C). Visibility can be in excess of 100 feet (35m) making for fantastic photo opportunities.
So if you fancy some adrenaline-filled diving and want to add a new experience to your repertoire, why not check out our trips to Guadalupe Island?
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