So you’re planning your trip to Maui and you’ve been hearing various rumors about sharks in Maui. Are there really shark sightings? Yes, there are. But this doesn’t mean that they’re necessarily where you and I would be out playing… While keeping in mind that the ocean is their natural playpen and we are guests in it, there’s a few things you can do to reassure yourself and play safe while in their domain.
This year, the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System was given a grant of over $150,000 to do a 2 year shark tracking system to monitor the coming and going of various tiger sharks around Maui. While only 7 sharks are currently tagged, the research team is working to tag as many as possible. The website for shark monitoring was set up for many reasons, one of which is for all of us water-friendly folk to get an insight as to how frequented our favorite beaches are. This system does not have real-time data, but can show you the swimming habits of these 7 sharks as well as where they were most recently charted.
This in no way is to scare you out of the water! We love our underwater world and spend as much time as possible exploring and appreciating the beauty of the reefs, fish and turtles. We especially love whale season as the beauty and grace of these incredible animals is displayed for everyone’s enjoyment, even from the shoreline. If you’d like to learn more about the Maui humpback whales, read our previous blog here.
Preparing for a safe vacation, without a face-to-face with sharks in Hawaiian waters:
But if you’re going to get out there for some water fun, you might as well increase the odds of having a great time by keeping the following tips in mind.
- Swim, surf or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance.
- Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed.
- Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations.
- Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances and areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels or steep drop-offs. These types of waters are known to be frequented by sharks.
- Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well.
- Refrain from excessive splashing; keep pets, which swim erratically, out of the water. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity.
- Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present. Leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.
- If fish or turtles start to behave erratically, leave the water. Avoid swimming near dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks.
- Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spear fishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water.
- Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards and follow their advice.
So don’t be afraid to get out there and have fun. Stay aware, stay safe and live Aloha!
