National

Shark Diving Offers Unique Underwater Experience

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – While most beachgoers hope not to spot a shark during their vacation, a group of divers visiting Grand Bahama spent the past week doing the exact opposite.

Published

1 day ago

June 24, 2026

Jameelha Missick

GRAND BAHAMA , BAHAMAS – While most beachgoers hope not to spot a shark during their vacation, a group of divers visiting Grand Bahama spent the past week doing the exact opposite.

The American visitors traveled to the island for an unforgettable underwater encounter, highlighting why The Bahamas remains one of the world’s top shark-diving destinations.

The Bahamas continues to earn international recognition as a premier destination for shark diving, attracting visitors from around the world who want an up-close look at some of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures.

According to Grand Bahama’s Sustainable Tourism Development Manager Jermaine Johnson, that reputation has been strengthened by the country’s longstanding commitment to shark conservation.

Jermaine Johnson – Manager, Sustainable Tourism Development Department, Grand Bahama

“For those who don’t know, you know, shark industry, or diving the niche market is one of the largest niche markets in the tourism sector, and an extremely important for for revenue and income, as well as jobs within that sector.”

Johnson adds that the industry offers more than just an exciting experience for visitors. It also creates opportunities for Bahamians to build careers in a growing niche market.

Jermaine Johnson – Manager, Sustainable Tourism Development Department, Grand Bahama

“It’s a very unique skill set that Bahamians can actually attain that can literally take them around the world. If they desire, you could work for companies like Aviva, you could work for companies like Club Med, who have hotels all around the world. So if you’re diving and learn to dive in The Bahamas and you’re here for five years diving, you gain the skills to become a dive master or dive instructor, and that skill could take you to be diving in the Maldives for six months, diving in Mexico for six months, or working for a dive operator in the South China Sea for six months. So it’s a great opportunity for Bahamians in terms of getting global exposure.”

Recently, a group of divers from the United States participated in a week-long shark diving experience in Grand Bahama hosted by Jolly Roger’s Scuba.

Owner Roger Ross, who has spent three decades introducing people to the underwater world, says The Bahamas remains one of the best places on earth to see sharks in their natural habitat.

Roger Ross – Owner, Jolly Roger’s Scuba

“They are real friendly. They come up to you and give you nice shots on your cameras. You get some great pictures, and you know that’s what folks want to see when I bring them. They want to see those animals.”

While sharks often have a fearsome reputation, Ross says many first-time divers leave the experience with a completely different perspective.

Roger Ross – Owner, Jolly Roger’s Scuba

“That’s one of the comments I get all the time. Well, I’m worried about what’s down there that wants to eat me. Sharks don’t want to eat us. We’re not in their food chain, and the truth is divers are safer than swimmers because they can see you. So get down and dive with them and interact with them. They’re majestic creatures.”

Shark Awareness Day is observed annually on July 14.