Guadalupe Island was a major destination for
Russian and American fur seal hunters in the 18th
and 19th centuries. Guadalupe is considered one
of the best spots in the world for sightings of the
white shark.
Great whites can be found in all major oceans
and reach sizes exceeding 20 feet and weighing
over 5,000 lbs. They were previously believed to
have a life span over 30 years, but now it is known
that they may live over 70 years, making it one
of the longest living cartilaginous fish currently
known. These sharks prey upon seals, sea lions,
dolphins, whales, turtles, birds, and other fish. They
are ambush hunters, taking prey surprise from
below, and can reach speeds up to 35 mph.
As we head out to sea aboard the Searcher, the
crew works together putting the cages in and
making chum out of cut up tuna.
The water temperature is about 72 degrees, and a
wetsuit and hood are needed to be comfortable.
After going over the safety protocols with us, they
lower us down 30 feet to observe these fantastic
sharks at their level, without bars.The sight is exciting
beyond word
Scott Davis, a crew member, watches your back
while you film or shoot pictures of these massive
sharks that are swimming all around you. They also
have cages off the transom that you can get in to
observe these incredible sharks eating the chunks of
tuna, floating nearby.
Fishing is awesome in this area. There are many
yellow fin tuna to catch on rod and reel, but it is hard
to get them to the boat because the sharks like to
tax you, however, you do get your share for dinner.
Fresh yellowfin is incredible right off the bones with
a little soy sauce and wasabi or seared to perfection
by the ship’s chef-you will enjoy it.
There are several charters that take you diving
with great white sharks and I highly recommend you
experience this for yourself. It is truly life changing!
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