Dive Site: Shark Island

About Shark Island

Shark Island, situated off the remote island of Kosrae in Micronesia, stands as an exceptional destination for experienced divers seeking thrilling pelagic encounters. This rocky islet is renowned for attracting significant numbers of grey reef sharks, which can be observed circling in the nutrient-rich currents surrounding its steep underwater slopes. The site's topography features dramatic drop-offs that plunge into deep blue water, creating an ideal environment for a diverse marine ecosystem. Beyond the frequent shark sightings, Shark Island boasts healthy and extensive coral gardens, large groupers, and schooling pelagic fish. The currents, while sometimes strong, are integral to the site's rich biodiversity, bringing in a constant supply of food that sustains everything from small reef inhabitants to apex predators. These conditions contribute to often incredible visibility, enhancing the experience of exploring pristine reefs largely untouched by crowds. Located in the eastern Caroline Islands, Kosrae offers uncrowded dive conditions, making Shark Island a truly special and pristine dive experience. Divers can expect to drift along vibrant walls, observing a wide array of marine life in clear waters. This site is particularly celebrated as one of the Pacific's premier shark diving locations, demanding advanced diving skills due to its currents.

Dive site facts: Shark Island

Depth

12–35 m

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

18–30 m

Water temperature

28–29°C

Entry

Boat dive

Level

Advanced required

Dive type

Wall, drift, shark, pelagic

Night dive

Possible (if no current)

Region / port

Kosrae, Micronesia

Coordinates

7.41, 151.73

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Shark Island can range from mild to strong, depending on the season and specific conditions, and are a key factor in attracting the site's abundant marine life, particularly the aggregations of sharks. Divers will typically descend along the wall to a viewing ledge where they can observe sharks in the current. Dive guides often employ a drift diving technique, towing a surface float and moving with the flow to ensure maximum safety and optimize marine life viewing. The presence of strong currents means this site is best suited for advanced divers with experience in such conditions. Visibility is consistently excellent, often exceeding 25 meters, thanks to these currents flushing the area with clear oceanic water, though it can occasionally reach up to 30 meters.

Marine life & sighting chances

Grey reef shark

common

White-tip reef shark

common

Black-tip reef shark

common

Hammerhead shark

occasional

Whale shark

rare

Eagle ray

common

Manta ray

occasional

Green turtle

occasional

Dogtooth tuna

occasional

Barracuda

common

Grouper

common

Parrotfish

common

Nudibranch

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Shark Island typically begins with a boat entry, followed by a descent along the steep underwater walls of the islet. The dive guide will often lead the group to a specific viewing ledge or section of the reef where the currents are most active, allowing divers to position themselves to observe the circling grey reef sharks. The dive progresses as a drift, following the prevailing current along the vibrant coral gardens and past schooling pelagics. Depths can vary, but much of the action occurs within recreational limits, with careful monitoring of air consumption and bottom time due to potential current exertion. The turn point is determined by current strength and air supply, with a controlled ascent and safety stop conducted in shallower, calmer water if conditions allow, or as a mid-water drift. Exits are typically by boat.

Underwater photography

Shark Island provides exceptional opportunities for wide-angle photography, especially to capture the dramatic aggregations of grey reef sharks against the deep blue backdrop. A wide-angle lens is essential for conveying the scale of the pelagic action and the expansive coral walls. Consider using strobes to bring out the vibrant colors of the healthy corals and to properly light subjects in deeper water or against the bright surface. Given the potential for strong currents, excellent buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the reef and to maintain stable positioning for shots. Reef hooks can be useful for photographers wishing to steady themselves to capture the passing sharks. When photographing the sharks, maintain a respectful distance and avoid aggressive pursuit to ensure natural behavior and a safe experience.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Walung Drop-Off

  A popular wall dive with strong currents and diverse marine life including barracuda and reef sharks.

• Hiroshi Point

  Features massive coral heads, abundant invertebrates, and schools of parrotfish, eagle rays, and reef sharks.

• Trochus Sanctuary

  Trochus Sanctuary is a distinctive dive site located north of the mid-point of Kosrae, southwest of the island's airport.

• The Jacks

  The dive site named Jacks is unique for its primary highlight: massive aggregations of big eye trevally that form spectacular 'tornados' in…

• The Dwarf Forest

  The Dwarf Forest is a distinctive dive site located off the remote island of Kosrae in Micronesia.

• Split Rock

  Split Rock is a notable dive site located in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, an island renowned for its pristine ocean and vibrant…

Getting there & logistics

Access to Kosrae is typically via flights to Kosrae International Airport (KSA). Most dive trips are land-based, operating from resorts that provide daily boat dives to sites like Shark Island. Dive operators maintain fleets of purpose-built dive boats, often with shade covers and oxygen on board, and keep them at various marinas around the island to find the most suitable conditions daily. Dive sites are usually just a 5 to 30-minute boat ride away. A typical dive day includes two boat dives with a surface interval on the boat, often offering fresh local fruit and water. Three-dive options are also available. Divers should bring their certification cards and be prepared to sign waivers. Fees for two-tank boat dives generally include tanks, weights, and lunch.

Safety & environment

Diving at Shark Island requires adherence to strict safety protocols due to potentially strong currents. All dives are guided, and the dive guide will typically tow a surface float for visibility. It is crucial for divers to stay with their group and follow the guide's instructions, especially regarding current changes. Divers should always carry appropriate safety equipment, including a surface marker buoy (SMB) and a whistle. Comprehensive dive insurance is highly recommended, covering emergency evacuation and hyperbaric treatment. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Palau, highlighting the need for careful dive planning and conservative profiles. Always dive within your certified limits and be proficient in current diving techniques.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Shark Island FAQ

Liveaboards diving Shark Island

These liveaboards may visit Shark Island on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Palau Siren

Micronesia

16 guests

$501/day

Solitude Gaia

Micronesia

18 guests40 m

$310/day

Palau Aggressor II

Micronesia

18 guests32 m

$292/day

Black Pearl

Micronesia

24 guests

$390/day

Ocean Hunter 3

Micronesia

16 guests29 m

$350/day

Pacific Master

Solomon Islands

20 guests30 m

$268/day