When is bull shark season in Playa del Carmen?
Bull shark season is usually from November to March, but exact dates can change each year because the sharks are wild animals. During this period, pregnant female bull sharks visit a sandy area close to Playa del Carmen. Our Playa del Carmen dive center follows local rules and daily port decisions. We always confirm conditions and shark presence as your dive date gets closer, because we want bull shark diving in Playa del Carmen to be exciting but also responsible.
What is the difference between shark feeding and shark observation dives?
On shark feeding dives, trained professionals use a bait box to keep the sharks in a specific area in front of the group at a fixed depth. You stay still on the sand and watch them pass close by, following strict procedures. On shark observation dives, there is no feeding. You watch the sharks in more natural behavior on the reef. Both options can be an unforgettable diving experience in Playa del Carmen when conditions allow.
Do I need to be an experienced diver for bull shark dives?
Yes, bull shark dives are only for certified divers with recent experience. We normally require at least 25 logged dives, good buoyancy, and comfort in open water with current. You must be able to stay calm and hold position on the bottom. If you are not ready yet, you can spend a few days reef diving in Playa del Carmen or take a PADI course with us to build your skills before joining a shark dive.
Are bull shark dives safe?
Bull shark diving in Playa del Carmen is managed with strict protocols. You will receive a detailed briefing about body position, where to look, and what to do at all times. Our guides maintain clear spacing between divers and sharks, and we do not allow any behavior that can disturb the animals. While there is always some risk in any shark dive, following the rules keeps it controlled and lets you enjoy a powerful experience.
Can non-certified divers or Discover Scuba participants join bull shark dives?
No. For safety reasons, bull shark dives are not for non-certified divers or Discover Scuba programs. If you are interested in sharks but new to diving, the best path is to complete your PADI Open Water course and gain some experience first. Later you can plan a trip back in shark season and fully enjoy this kind of scuba diving in Playa del Carmen with the right skills.
Will I definitely see sharks on a bull shark dive?
We can’t guarantee sightings of any wild animal. In season, the chances are usually good, but sometimes sharks do not appear or stay only a short time. We always give you honest information based on the most recent dives. We know most people book this specifically for the sharks, and we will be clear about the current situation.
Can I take photos or video during the shark dive?
You can take photos or video, but safety rules come first. No chasing or touching, and you must stay in your assigned position. Sometimes it’s better to focus on the experience and let a professional photographer handle images. We can arrange photo or video services for bull shark diving (for an extra fee) so you get great images without worrying about your camera.
What are the minimum requirements for the bull shark dive?
You must be Open Water certified (or higher) and have at least 25 logged dives. If you have fewer than 25 logged dives, a check dive is required before we can take you to the bull shark site. This follows the local best-practices guideline for bull shark diving.
Why do you require a check dive for some divers?
A check dive is a quick, controlled way for us to confirm buoyancy, calm behavior, and basic control in the water before a more demanding dive. For bull shark dives, we need to be confident every diver can hold position and follow the protocol. This is about safety for divers and for the sharks.
