Despite the fact that most sharks are among the most threatened marine wildlife in our oceans, shark conservation efforts continue to face great challenges due to sharks’ “reputation” as dangerous predators. Learn more about sharks from Hawaii Shark Encounters and be part of the global efforts to fight misconceptions, support more research and further conservation initiatives.

About Hawaii Shark Encounters

Hawaii Shark Encounters works closely with Shark Allies, a non-profit organization that promotes proper understanding and respect for sharks and supports ocean conservation. A portion of the proceeds of Hawaii Shark Encounter tours go directly towards funding shark research and education.

Shark Conservation Challenges

“Sharks have survived 400 million years of evolution. Man is wiping them out within decades.” – Shark Allies

The general misconception is that there are still plenty of sharks. It is rare to find sympathy for an animal that most people are terrified of. Sharks have a bad reputation that is undeserved and incorrect. More research is needed to find out important information about the biology of individual shark species, and how the current fishing practices will affect their populations.

One thing is clear, because sharks are slow to mature and reproduce in very low numbers, the populations will hit a point of no return much faster than any other fish species that are hunted extensively. To make things worse, shark research is tragically under funded. Sharks are unpopular animals in comparison to whales, dolphins and the cuter varieties of ocean creatures.

Learn how YOU can help!

• Be informed about shark products: Be aware of products containing shark meat, fins, cartilage and squalene (an extract of shark liver oil), which are often cleverly hidden ingredients. Hundreds of thousands of sharks are harvested to be used for such products.
• Avoid products with shark teeth, jaws and skin: When purchasing jewelry with sharks teeth or sharks jaw products, only buy fossilized ones, which are usually blue or brown in color. Modern shark products made from recently caught (and most likely illegally harvested) sharks tend to be more white in color.
• Help stop shark finning: Shark finning is a cruel and wasteful practice in which the whole animal is slaughtered just for the fins. Support organizations fighting the practice, and contact your representatives and request for policy against shark finning. When traveling, don’t purchase shark fin products (e.g. shark fin soup, which is often sold as a “delicacy” but in reality has almost no taste and no nutritional value).
• Know your facts: Learn about marine life, their behavior and the dangers. Avoid sensationalized TV programs and ads that portray sharks as nothing but bloodthirsty killers.
• Pass on your knowledge: Tell your friends about what you know about sharks and encourage them to support effort to protect sharks.
• Be a proactive supporter: Join an organization that promotes shark and ocean conservation. Encourage your friends and family to learn more about sharks and their importance.

Source: “How You Can Help” – Hawaii Shark Encounters

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