Shark Conservation Trips That Will Blow Your Mind for Shark Awareness Day
Sharks remain some of the most misunderstood species in the sea, but they also possess incredible mystery. There’s no wonder why the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week is one of the most popular weeks on television; humans want to know more! We are so intrigued and mystified about these apex predators, but often don’t realize they are vulnerable.
National Shark Awareness Day falls today, July 14th, with the mission of educating humans around the world of the threats against sharks. There’s still a demand for shark-fin soup and tooth souvenirs, as well as the senseless killing of sharks, which decreases their populations by millions each year.
Want to know how you can help? Join one of these incredible Shark Conservation Trips in some of the most beautiful destinations:
Volunteer with Great White Sharks in South Africa – International Marine Volunteers
Located in Gansbaai, South Africa, this volunteer program with International Marine Volunteers offers a seriously adrenaline-pumping experience. You’ll work alongside marine conservationists and biologists as they study Great White Sharks and other marine wildlife. You will also work with crew and tourists on the cage-diving boats, eco-tours, and whale watching tours. This program is available to travelers staying 1-12 weeks and will prove to be a life-changing experience.
Cocos Island Research Expedition – Turtle Island Restoration Network
Dive into the waters off the coast of Costa Rica at Cocos Island National Park. The area is known for its diversity of sea life and well-known as the best place to dive with sharks. Alongside conservationists, you will find yourself face-to-face with a myriad of sea creatures, including sea turtles, enormous schools of fish, and various species of shark. This program is sure to be an experience to remember!
Great White Shark Internship in South Africa – White Shark Africa
Join a 27-day internship in George, South Africa and make a direct impact on the conservation of great white sharks and other species of sharks. This program serves a multitude of purposes, including community education about the shark’s role in the delicate marine ecosystem. As an intern, you will take part in cage dives, scuba dive, tourist education, ecological conservation, and much more. Internships start on the 1st of every month, and are open to only 8 participants each month! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
Shark Conservation in Belize – Earthwatch Institute
Join Dr. Demian Chapman in Belize on a research mission the first of its kind. As part of this program, you will help study how long it takes an overfished shark population to recover in a new marine reserve. You’ll also assist in studying the types of sharks that are fished and documenting ray species and more. The goal of this program is to protect Belize’s reef systems and the marine species that call it home.
Grow your awareness and the awareness of those you know about sharks and their essential role in the oceans of our world, today! And if you’re looking for an exciting way to give back and make a difference, consider devoting your next vacation to an incredible program like those listed above. You’ll never regret the life-changing experience of helping wildlife!
