We Tried It: Shark Diving with One Ocean Diving

What: Shark diving with One Ocean Diving

Who: An ocean lover with prior shark diving experience

Where: Hale‘iwa

When: Sunday at 8 a.m.

Cost: $150 plus fees

$105 ride-alongs (you join the tour without getting in the water)

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

It’s a bright Sunday morning as I leave Honolulu, headed for Hale‘iwa to swim with sharks with One Ocean Diving. The company is committed to ethical and educational shark encounters, according to its website, which is why I chose it.

The tour I booked starts at 8 a.m., and as I pull into the parking lot at the small boat harbor in Hale‘iwa, I’m filled with excitement. And a hint of nerves—but that’s totally normal, right? Twelve other people have signed up for the same tour as me, and after signing waivers, we all hop on the boat and head for open waters. It only takes about 10 or 15 minutes to get to where we’re going—and we’re in luck: The ocean here is calm, the water clear.

On the way here, One Ocean Diving’s crew members briefed us about safety and provided some fascinating insights about manō (the Hawaiian word for sharks). They explained that we’d be swimming with Galápagos sharks ranging from 6 to 12 feet long, and that our group would be split into two sections, each accompanied by a professional diver to ensure our safety.

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

One Ocean Diving provides snorkels, masks and fins that make it easy to glide through the water. When entering the water, we’re advised to move slowly to minimize bubbles and disturbance. A rope is attached to the boat for those who prefer something to hold on to while in the water, but you’re also free to swim independently—as long as you stay near the dive professionals.

Once in the water, my initial nerves fade, replaced by an overwhelming sense of peace and connection with the ocean. Seeing these magnificent creatures swimming gracefully nearby is surreal. Schools of fish dart around, and from the distance, the hauntingly beautiful songs of whales echo through the deep. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment—and one that I wish everyone could experience.

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

Stepping outside of our comfort zones can be incredibly empowering. It reminds us that we’re capable of so much more than we think, and in this case at least, that sharks aren’t the villains that movies often make them out to be.

We spend about 45 minutes in the water, and it goes by fast. As we climb back onto the boat, we’re exhilarated and buzzing with excitement. And on our way back to shore, just as we’re thinking the day can’t get any better, we spot whales in the distance. It’s a magical bonus.

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

For those wanting to document the experience, One Ocean Diving offers professional photography packages for an additional cost of $250. You can also bring your own underwater camera—just make sure any camera poles are dark in color to avoid attracting the sharks’ attention.

During our return trip, the crew continues to educate us, including breaking down some common misconceptions about sharks. Far from the terrifying monsters Hollywood portrays, sharks are apex predators essential to the balance of marine ecosystems. Yet more than 100 million of them are killed each year, mainly for their fins, meat, and oils. That’s 11,416 sharks killed per hour, a heartbreaking statistic that highlights the need for conservation and responsible consumer choices.

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

Many consumers don’t realize that some cosmetics, skincare products, and supplements contain shark-derived ingredients. One major example is squalene, an oil commonly found in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, sunscreens, and even vaccines.

This experience isn’t just about swimming with sharks; it’s about learning, growing and gaining a newfound respect for these misunderstood creatures. The One Ocean Diving team is professional, knowledgeable and incredibly passionate, making the adventure all the more memorable.

Photo: Gabriela Cervantes

SEE ALSO: We Tried It: Fishing for Our Lunch at Ali‘i Agriculture Farms

Tips for Your Shark Diving Adventure

Unfortunately, infants and very young children can’t join, so make sure to leave them in good hands on land. To get in the water, you must be at least 4 feet tall and able to swim. If you weigh less than 80 pounds, bring a snug-fitting life vest. If you have diabetes or allergies to bee stings or jellyfish, bring along any necessary medications and inform the crew upon boarding. You’re also required to list any applicable medical conditions or medications when booking and again upon arrival.

Not a strong swimmer? No worries! You can still watch the sharks from the boat and learn from the crew. If you do want to swim, the crew highly recommends practicing snorkeling beforehand. A dive master is always in the water, along with the safety line mentioned earlier. If you’re not confident in your swimming, just let the crew members know—they’re there to help!

If you get seasick easily, take Dramamine or another motion sickness medication beforehand, ideally the night before as well as 2 hours before boarding the boat. Also, wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the ocean.

And ask questions! The team loves sharing its knowledge about the ocean and marine life.

SEE ALSO: 9 Tips to Avoid a Shark Attack in Hawai‘i

So if you’re looking for an adventure that’s thrilling, educational and awe-inspiring, swimming with sharks off Haleʻiwa should be at the top of your list. You won’t regret it!

oneoceandiving.com, @oneoceandiving