Let’s be real—seeing a shark while swimming in the open ocean sounds like a nightmare to most people. I get it. The fear is deep, primal. The word “shark” alone can spike adrenaline and trigger images of dramatic attacks we’ve seen in movies or sensational news.

But here’s the truth from someone who’s been diving with sharks since the very beginning of her freediving journey: sharks are not what Hollywood made them out to be.

I’m not a shark expert like Ocean Ramsey, but I’ve swum with plenty of sharks—bull sharks, lemon sharks, whitetips, even tiger sharks—and not once have I felt unsafe. Why? Because I’ve learned what to do, and more importantly, what not to do.

In this blog post, I’ll share what I’ve learned so you can feel more confident in the water and know how to respond if a shark swims by during your next snorkeling or ocean swim adventure.

Why Are We So Afraid of Sharks?

It usually starts with the medias. From Jaws to viral videos, sharks are always shown as cold-blooded killers. Add in the fact that we can’t see very far underwater, and it’s no surprise that our imagination runs wild.

But fear often comes from a lack of understanding—and the truth is, most sharks aren’t interested in humans at all.

Sharks Are Not as Dangerous as We Think

Here’s the hard fact: You are more likely to be injured by a vending machine than by a shark. (Yes, really.)

Most shark species are either disinterested in humans or scared of us. They don’t see us as prey. Shark “attacks” are extremely rare, and when they do happen, it’s usually a case of mistaken identity.

Why Don’t Sharks Immediately Attack Humans Underwater?

Simple: You’re not their food.

Sharks are intelligent, curious creatures. When they approach, it’s often to investigate—not to attack. Think of it like a dog sniffing something unfamiliar. Unfortunately, because they investigate with their mouths, accidents can happen. But again, this is rare.

Most people assume sharks will instantly bite when they see a human. That fear is rooted in misunderstanding, not experience.

The 5 Most “Dangerous” Sharks (and Why You Should Still Learn About Them)

Here are the top five species most commonly linked with unprovoked incidents. But before you panic, remember: understanding them is the first step to overcoming fear.

1. Great White Shark

• Why dangerous: Responsible for the most recorded unprovoked shark attacks.
• Where found: Coastal waters of the US (California, Northeast), South Africa, Australia.
• What they look like: Large, torpedo-shaped body, white belly, grey-blue top, and a triangular dorsal fin. Can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) long.

2. Tiger Shark

• Why dangerous: Curious and opportunistic feeders, sometimes approach humans closely.
• Where found: Tropical and subtropical waters, especially around Hawaii, the Bahamas, and Fuvahmulah in the Maldives.
• Appearance: Stripes on the side, blunt nose, large mouth. Often 3-5 meters (10–14 feet) long.

3. Bull Shark

• Why dangerous: Aggressive behavior and ability to swim in freshwater rivers.
• Where found: Warm coastal waters, rivers, and estuaries worldwide. Seen in the Amazon, Mississippi River, and Australian rivers.
• Look: Stocky build, short blunt snout, grey top and pale underside. Typically 2-4 meters (7–11 feet).

4. Oceanic Whitetip

• Why dangerous: Known to approach humans in open ocean, especially around shipwrecks.
• Where found: Deep tropical oceans worldwide.
• Appearance: Long pectoral fins, white-tipped fins, slow but bold swimmer.

5. Shortfin Mako Shark

• Why dangerous: Extremely fast and unpredictable.
• Where found: Offshore temperate and tropical waters.
• Looks: Sleek, metallic blue top, white belly, pointed nose. Can leap out of water.

I’ve personally swum near tiger sharks, bull sharks and reef sharks, and despite their reputation, I never felt threatened. Education is everything.

What To Do If You See a Shark While Snorkeling or Swimming

1. Stay Calm
Your first instinct might be to panic, but try not to. Splashing and fast movements attract attention. Breathe slowly, control your movement, and stay composed.

2. Maintain Eye Contact
If you spot a shark, try to keep it in sight without turning your back. Many sharks respect presence and confidence. Facing them can help prevent close investigation.

3. Slowly and Smoothly Swim Away
Do not thrash or make sudden movements. Back away slowly toward safety (a boat or shoreline), keeping your eyes on the shark.

4. Stay Vertical in the Water
This posture can make you appear larger and less like prey. Sharks often approach horizontal shapes like fish.

5. Group Up if Possible
Sharks are less likely to approach a group than a lone swimmer. If you are with others, stay close together.

6. Don’t chase or touch
Let it swim freely. Don’t chase or try to touch it. Avoid making yourself look like a threat or an obstacle.

How To Overcome the Fear of Sharks?

• Learn about shark behavior.
• Watch documentaries (not horror movies).
• Start snorkeling in clear water with reef sharks.
• Book a shark tour with a trusted operator.

I always tell people: once you swim next to a shark and feel how calm and majestic they are, your fear starts to shift. You realize—they’re not evil. They’re just animals trying to survive, like the rest of us.

Want to hear more? Read the full story on How I Overcame My Fear of Sharks.

Final Thoughts: Respect, Awareness, and Confidence

If you find yourself face to face with a shark in the open ocean, remember:

• Be respectful. You’re in their home.
• Be aware. Know the local wildlife and ocean conditions.
• Be alert. Trust your instincts.
• But most importantly, be confident.

Sharks aren’t the villains we’ve been taught to fear. They’re beautiful, powerful, and crucial to our marine ecosystems. The more you understand them, the less scary they become.

And who knows—maybe your fear will turn into fascination, just like mine did.

Want to swim with tiger sharks in the Maldives?
Check this out: How To Freedive With Tiger Sharks In Fuvahmulah