Sharks: Misunderstood Ocean Legends

By: Chelsey Thwaites, Program Director September 24, 2025 High School Adventures, Marine Biology

Sharks are some of the most fascinating creatures in the ocean. With over 500 species, they’ve been around for more than 400 million years—long before dinosaurs. These incredible animals play a crucial role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems, yet they’re often misunderstood.

Whether you’re interested in marine biology, shark conservation, or just the thrill of diving with sharks, this guide will give you the facts. And if you’re interested in seeing these amazing creatures in real life, we’ll tell you how you can see sharks up close on a Broadreach teen marine biology summer program.

Shark Facts That Might Surprise You

• Sharks Are Ancient: Sharks predate trees and dinosaurs, making them some of the ocean’s oldest survivors.
• Most Are Harmless: Out of hundreds of species, only a few pose any threat to humans. Whale sharks and nurse sharks, for example, are gentle giants.
• They Keep Oceans Balanced: As apex predators, sharks help control populations of other species, which keeps ecosystems in balance.
• They’re Smarter Than You Think: Sharks can problem-solve, recognize patterns, and even remember shapes.

Sharks: Myths vs. Facts

Movies and headlines often portray sharks as terrifying, but the truth is quite different.

Myth: Sharks are man-eaters.

Fact: Most sharks avoid humans. When they do approach, it’s usually out of curiosity.

Myth: Sharks attack often.

Fact: Shark attacks are extremely rare. You’re more likely to be struck by lightning than bitten by a shark.

What It’s Like to Dive with Sharks

Imagine dropping into clear blue water and seeing your first shark glide by. Instead of scary, it’s awe-inspiring. Sharks move with power and grace, and being in the water with them often changes how you see these misunderstood animals forever.

On Broadreach programs, you may spot nurse sharks or reef sharks in the Caribbean. And if sharks are your passion, nothing compares to our Fiji Shark Studies marine biology camp, where you’ll dive with up to eight species, including bull and blacktip reef sharks.

Why Sharks Matter

Sharks are essential to healthy oceans:

• They regulate prey, preventing overgrazing on habitats such as seagrass beds and coral reefs.

• They support biodiversity. By targeting sick or weak animals, sharks maintain healthy populations.

• They signal ocean health. A thriving shark population often means a flourishing ecosystem.

How You Can Help Protect Sharks

Sharks face threats like overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss, but you can make a difference:

• Learn and Share: Help debunk myths by spreading real shark facts.

• Support Conservation: Choose sustainable seafood and back shark-friendly organizations.

• Dive Responsibly: Always follow eco-friendly guidelines that protect marine life.

Where to See Sharks on Broadreach Trips

🦈 Fiji: Shark Studies: Our scuba- and marine bio-focused shark camp in Fiji is perfect for shark enthusiasts who want to study and dive with sharks. You’ll:

• Dive with as many as eight species of sharks.
• Study shark behavior, conservation, and marine biology.
• Learn how local communities protect these animals and their habitats.

🌊 Other Programs

Even if your trip isn’t shark-focused, you may still encounter sharks while diving or snorkeling:

• Caribbean Voyages: Reef and nurse sharks often appear during dives.
• Yucatán Ocean Conservation: Snorkel alongside the world’s largest fish—the gentle whale shark—for an unforgettable encounter. You’ll also learn about sustainable fisheries and sharks’ roles in marine ecosystems
• Cocos Island Alumni-Only Advanced Scuba: On this next-level liveaboard expedition, divers will almost certainly see schools of hammerheads—an epic bucket-list experience for advanced alumni divers.

These encounters are always a highlight, giving you the chance to see sharks in their natural environment.

Join Us in the Adventure

Sharks are more than just ocean predators—they’re vital, intelligent, and incredible to witness up close. Whether you dream of becoming a marine biologist or want to try an adventurous summer program, Broadreach trips give you the chance to dive with sharks, learn about shark conservation, and study marine biology in action.

✨ Ready to dive in? Explore our Shark Studies program in Fiji, snorkel with whale sharks in Mexico, search for hammerheads in the Galápagos, or join another teen marine biology adventure and discover the world of sharks for yourself.