Dive Site: Sharks Alley

Dive site facts: Sharks Alley

Depth

15 m

Typical dive

15 m, ~80 min

Current

Mild to moderate drift

Visibility

18–30 m

Water temperature

24–31°C

Entry

Day boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Shark, reef, wreck

Night dive

Not specified

Region / port

Grand Bahama / Freeport

Coordinates

24.9966° N, 77.2541° W

Conditions & Currents

Dive conditions at Sharks Alley generally feature mild to moderate currents, which can vary depending on tidal movements. While typically manageable, divers should be prepared for some water movement, especially when navigating around the 'Pretenders Wreck' or reef structures. Entry is typically from a day boat, often involving a backward roll or giant stride, with a quick descent advised to reach the main area and avoid any potential surface chop. Visibility at the site is consistently excellent, often ranging between 18 to 30 meters, contributing to clear views of the sharks and reef. Water temperatures are warm, ranging from 24-27°C in winter to 31°C in summer, making thermoclines infrequent and generally not a concern. The dive concludes with an ascent and safety stop, after which divers are picked up by the boat.

Marine life & sighting chances

Caribbean reef shark

Year-round · common

Lemon shark

occasional

Nurse shark

occasional

Grouper

common

Jack

common

Spadefish

common

Stingray

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Sharks Alley typically begins with a boat entry from a day vessel, where divers quickly descend to the 15-meter depth to commence the shark encounter. The 'Pretenders Wreck,' an upside-down tugboat hull, marks a key point of interest and often serves as a reference for the dive. Divers will primarily observe the Caribbean reef sharks that frequently circle the area, along with large groupers, schooling jacks, and spadefish, often joined by stingrays. The dive progresses around the reef structures and sandy patches, allowing for ample observation time with the marine life. Maximum depth is around 15 meters, providing a substantial bottom time, typically around 80 minutes. The turn point is generally determined by air consumption or dive guide signals. A safety stop is performed at 5 meters for 3 minutes before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Sharks Alley offers exceptional opportunities for wide-angle photography, primarily focusing on the numerous Caribbean reef sharks and the overall reef ecosystem. A fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the sharks in their environment and the expansive clear water. Due to the shallow depth of 15 meters and excellent visibility, ambient light photography works well, but strobes are essential to bring out the vibrant colors of the reef fish and the true tones of the sharks. When photographing sharks, maintain a respectful distance and follow the dive guide's instructions closely, especially during any feeding activities, to ensure both diver and animal safety. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the sandy bottom or coral structures.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Caves Sites

  Connects to Sharks Alley on the south.

• Hydro Lab

  Connects to Sharks Alley on the east.

• Peterson Cay

  Shallow reef diving often combined with shark dives.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Sharks Alley is primarily via day boat trips originating from Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. Divers typically fly into Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO), which has direct connections to major cities in the US. Dive operators, often based out of resorts like Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach, provide boat transfers to the dive site. A typical shark diving experience lasts around 2.5 hours, including surface intervals. Some packages combine the shark dive with other local reef dives. It is recommended to book dive trips in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Safety & environment

For diving in the Bahamas, including Sharks Alley, it's crucial to have comprehensive dive insurance that covers recompression chamber treatments and medical evacuations. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Nassau, which means evacuation to a medical facility can take time. Divers should ensure they are well-rested and hydrated. At Sharks Alley, specific protocols for shark encounters are strictly followed, including staying close to the dive guide and maintaining specific positions. Prior experience with normal dives is required before participating in the shark dive. Always adhere to your dive guide's instructions regarding conduct around marine life to ensure safety for both divers and sharks.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Sharks Alley FAQ

Liveaboards diving Sharks Alley

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

All Star Blackbeards Morning Star

Bahamas

24 guests20 m

Bahamas Aggressor II

Bahamas

20 guests34 m

Blue Marlin

Bahamas

26 guests42 m

All Star Aqua Cat

Bahamas

30 guests31 m

All Star Cat Ppalu

Bahamas

12 guests20 m