Ocean Explorer Magazine Miami show 2015 | Page 25

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! Page 25