The tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier, is one of the requiem sharks, known as formidable predators with very powerful jaws and teeth as sharp as blades. It is the second largest predatory shark after the great white, with a length of over 5 m and a weight of around 900 kg.
Tiger sharks are found throughout the world in warm-water marine environments, particularly in the central Pacific islands, North America, the Bahamas, Fiji, Mexico, South Africa and also in the Maldives. On Fuvahmulah, an isolated island in the southern Madives, with a very specific current pattern around the atoll that creates the perfect environment for tiger sharks and many other pelagic fish, we have an estimated population of 500 tiger sharks, living peacefully.
Its dark stripes fade as the shark matures
It is only the young specimens that show the characteristic dark stripes and spots, perhaps to better camouflage themselves in the shadows of the waves. With maturity, the stripes fade and the skin takes on a dark blue-green or grey colour above and a light belly.
Its body is boneless
Like all sharks, its skeleton consists of cartilage.
It hunts by detecting the electrical fields of prey animals.
The tiger shark has small pits on its snout that contain a network of sensory organs called Lorenzini’s ampullae. These organs detect electric fields, even the weakest.
It really eats everything!
It feeds on marine animals such as manta rays, squid, turtles, crabs, rays, dolphins, seals, seabirds and even other sharks.
It is also known to feed on land animals, such as dogs, cats and rats, horses, goats, sheep, birds.
It also feeds on inedible man-made objects left in the ocean that are not digested in its stomach.
Its jaws have a unique shape and teeth
All sharks have a rounded jaw, whereas the tiger shark has a square one.
It has very sharp, saw-like denticles on all its teeth, allowing it to slice its prey, even cutting through the hard shells of turtles. In the course of its life new teeth replace worn-out ones. Its razor-sharp teeth are virtually identical in both the upper and lower jaws, unlike most predatory sharks that have fewer sharp teeth in the lower jaw. Its teeth can shear through flesh and bone.
When belly-up it can go into a trance-like state
If it is turned on its stomach it becomes temporarily immobile and enters a kind of hypnosis in less than a minute and can remain there for up to 15 minutes, allowing scientists to implant a tracking device in its body and collect information.
Sacred in Hawaiian mythology
Popular in the Pacific Ocean, in traditional Hawaiian culture the tiger shark is considered a sacred spirit, believed to be the reincarnation of a deceased family member.
It is the only ovoviviparous shark species, which gives birth to live young after hatching fertile eggs inside its body.
A pregnant female tiger shark lays between 10 and 80 fertilised eggs inside her body; each egg contains an embryo that feeds on its own yolk and hatches inside the mother’s body after a total gestation period of 13 to 16 months, giving birth to fully developed, live young.
At risk of extinction
Man is drastically reducing the population of tiger sharks by killing them for its skin to produce real leather, for its fins, edible meat and vitamin A-rich liver oil, which is used to make supplements.
The tiger shark gets its name from the characteristic vertical bars that cover the sides of its body. Though these bars fade slightly as individuals reach adulthood, they are very noticeable in juveniles and at least partly visible throughout the lifetime. Reaching lengths of at least 5,5m (18 feet) and 1-ton pounds (approximately 2000 pounds), the tiger shark is the fourth largest shark and second largest predatory shark, behind only the great white shark. Though the tiger shark is thought to be a predominately coastal species, its geographic distribution includes all tropical and temperate waters around the world, so some individuals must migrate between island groups. Experts consider tiger sharks to be ‘near threatened’ with extinction, noting the reduction in their numbers from targeted and accidental catch in fisheries. Their reputation as a species that bites people (though very rarely) makes them a target of population control efforts in some places, a practice that is not supported by scientists anywhere that it occurs.
Nocturnal and Diurnal Activity: Tiger sharks are known to exhibit both nocturnal and diurnal activity patterns, meaning they can be active during the day and night. They may hunt for food both in shallow coastal waters and in deeper offshore areas. Tiger sharks are highly migratory and can cover long distances. They have been recorded traveling across ocean basins and are capable of traversing thousands of kilometres. Tiger sharks are known to have large home ranges and may occupy specific territories. However, their movements can vary depending on factors such as food availability and reproductive cycles.
Tiger sharks are aggressive predators, famous for eating just about anything they find or are able to capture. They have been known to eat many different fishes and invertebrates, seabirds, sea turtles, some marine mammals, stingrays and other rays, smaller sharks, sea snakes, and scavenged dead animals, among other things. Several tiger sharks have been known to eat garbage, including metal, plastic, wood, fishing gear, and other trash. Though they are generalist predators, in some areas, tiger sharks likely specialize on certain highly available prey. In the Maldives they are found near fish factories as fish rests have been dumped into the sea for decades. Tiger sharks just need to be there at the right time to get some free food. In Hawaii, tiger sharks are known to regularly attack and eat green turtles and hawaiian monk seals near the nesting beaches for those two species. At other island groups, tiger sharks are known to congregate near seabird rookeries during the times when young birds are learning to fly (and often end up on the sea surface).
Tiger sharks mate via internal Female tiger sharks have anywhere from 10 to 82 embryos and give birth to an average of 30 to 35 pups per litter. Though they give live birth, tiger sharks do not connect to their young through a placenta, like in most mammals. Instead, embryos develop inside individual eggs until they hatch. Only then does the mother give birth to live juveniles. After they are born, young tiger sharks are already natural predators, and they eat coastal fishes and invertebrates. Adult tiger sharks have no natural predators, though juveniles may be eaten by other sharks, including adult tiger sharks. For this and other reasons, juveniles and adults live in slightly different habitats. Adults prefer the open coast and high-energy coral reefs, while juveniles are typically found in estuaries and protected bays. This division of habitat use may offer some protection to the juveniles from cannibalistic adults.
Discover the Unforgettable Beauty of Fuvahmulah! 🦈✨🌊 🇲🇻
There’s a place where the ocean meets perfection, where every dive feels like a dream, and every corner of paradise is waiting to be explored—Fuvahmulah. 💙
Tiger Sharks guaranteed is just the beginning 🦈
We’re thrilled to offer you an experience that will take your breath away. Our team, working alongside some of the most skilled dive guides and instructors in the Maldives, ensures that your underwater adventures are not just safe but also unforgettable. 🐠🌟
Here’s all you need to do:
Book your international flight ✈️
Contact us to secure your spot 📞
We’ll handle everything else—transfers, domestic flights, accommodation, and, of course, your diving experience! 🌴🌊
Fuvahmulah’s unparalleled beauty is waiting for you. Dive into adventure, relaxation, and discovery. 🌅 Don’t just visit—experience it with us!
🦈Let’s make your dream dive a reality. Reach out today! 🦈
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @xtra_salty_travels
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🌊 Dive into Adventure with Big Shark Diving🦈
Attention, shark lovers! Are you ready to embark on the ultimate underwater adventure? Divepoint Maldives & Divepoint Fuvahmulah have evolved , and we’re here to take you on a thrilling journey like no other! 🦈🦈🦈
🔥 What Awaits You?
🦈Epic Shark Encounters: Get your adrenaline pumping as you dive with some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring predators! Spot Tiger Sharks, Hammerheads, Spinner Sharks, Thresher Sharks, Silver Sharks, and Bull Sharks. Every dive is an exhilarating experience!
📍 Diverse Locations: Explore the vibrant waters of Fuvahmulah and the Male Atoll at our four prime locations: Hudhranfushi, Guraidhoo, Rannalhi, and Vadhoo. Each site offers unique encounters that will leave you breathless!
🎥 Stunning Visuals: Our talented instructors and videographers are capturing every heart-stopping moment just for you! Follow along for jaw-dropping videos and reels that bring the magic of the ocean right to your screen.
🏡 Stay Local or Luxurious: Choose your adventure! Support local businesses by staying in charming guesthouses on Fuvahmulah and Guraidhoo or indulge in luxury at breathtaking resorts like Hudhuranfushi, Vadhoo, and Rannalhi. The choice is yours!
🚀 Join Us Now! Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious beginner, this is your chance to dive deep into the wonders of the ocean. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity—let’s make unforgettable memories together!
👉 Follow us for updates, tips, and action-packed footage! Your next great adventure awaits!
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @marcus_maldives @xtra_salty_travels @nicoles_ocean_longing @maish_h_
📍 Fuvahmulah, Male atoll
#DivepointMaldives #SharkAdventures #OceanThrills #UnderwaterExploration #SupportLocal #JoinTheAction #bigsharkdiving #divelocal #divewithfriends #scubaction #tigershark #hammerhead #silvershark #threshershark #bullshark #tigerport
Plunging into the depths of Fuvahmulah, where the thrill of tiger sharks fuels our adrenaline.
At DivePoint Maldives, every dive is a heart-pounding encounter with the ocean’s apex predators. Are you ready for this?
If you want to join us
👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
Info@divepoint-maldives.com
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the Indian Ocean, safe & all at an unbeatable price! 🦈
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @nicoles_ocean_longing
📍 Fuvahmulah @divepointmaldives @maathundi
🦈 #SharkAdventures #TigerSharks #DivePointMaldives #Fuvahmulah #SharkChase #TigerSharks #DivePointMaldives #Fuvahmulah #AdrenalineDive #OceanPredators #SharkAddiction #DiveIntoAdventure #MaldivesDiving #SharkEncounters #divewithfriends #dive #scubaddict #stopsharkfinning #nosharksnoblue #savethesharks
Despite their reputation, tiger sharks are often portrayed as misunderstood animals.
During the dive, you may feel a strange connection as you observe them up close. They move with incredible elegance and seem to be just as intrigued by you as you are by them.
At Fuvahmulah, we have the incredible opportunity to experience this magic every day—immersing ourselves in the natural world and becoming one with the environment.
The island’s unique location offers an unparalleled chance to connect with tiger sharks and other marine life, creating a deeper bond with the ocean.
It’s not just a dive; it’s a shared experience where the lines between diver and ocean blur, and we feel the rhythm of nature, powerful yet peaceful, as it surrounds us.
Every encounter is a reminder of our place in this vast, wondrous ecosystem.
Join us 👇🏼👇🏼
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @marcus_maldives
@divepointmaldives @fuvahmulahdivepoint @myfuvahmulah
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#TigerShark
#TigerSharks
#SharkDiving
#SharkWeek
#SharkConservation
#OceanPredators
#SharkPhotography
#SharksOfInstagram
#WildlifePhotography
#underwateradventure #sharkattack #divepointmaldives #divewithfriends #fuvahmulah #oceanbound #uniquelocations
The tiger shark dive in Fuvahmulah, Maldives, is a thrilling experience 🦈🦈
Usually is structured like this 👇🏼👇🏼
Pre-Dive Briefing: Divers receive safety instructions and guidelines on interacting with sharks.
Boat Ride: A short boat trip takes divers to the dive site.
Shark Encounter: Divers descend to 20-30 meters to observe tiger sharks, while maintaining a safe distance.
Safety Measures: Guides ensure diver safety and manage shark behavior.
Dive Duration: The dive typically lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Post-Dive: After returning to the boat, divers often have a debrief and can share experiences.
Divers should be at least Advanced Open Water level due to the nature of the dive and shark interactions.
Join us 👇🏼👇🏼
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @marcus_maldives
@divepointmaldives @fuvahmulahdivepoint @myfuvahmulah
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#TigerShark
#TigerSharks
#SharkDiving
#SharkWeek
#SharkConservation
#OceanPredators
#SharkPhotography
#SharksOfInstagram
#WildlifePhotography
#underwateradventure #sharkattack #divepointmaldives #divewithfriends #fuvahmulah
Fuvahmulah is a true hotspot for tiger shark encounters, earning its reputation as one of the best places in the world to meet these magnificent creatures.
Over the years, researchers and divers have identified anywhere from 100 to 200 individual tiger sharks in the surrounding waters.
What makes this location so special?
The island sits in a unique area where tiger sharks frequent throughout the year, drawn in by the rich food sources and ideal conditions for feeding and mating.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a shark enthusiast, Fuvahmulah offers one of the most thrilling and consistent tiger shark experiences on the planet.
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
🎥 @maish_h_
📍 @fuvahmulahdivepoint @divepointmaldives @maathundi
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#sharkenthusiast #fuvahmulah #sharkweek #sharkmood #sharkisland #divewithfriends #thrilling #hotspot #worldbestspots #bestdives #topdive #megadive #unesco #unescoworldheritage #biggesttigersharkpopulation
Not sure how many times we did the Tiger shark 🦈 dive , is ALWAYS , so exciting !
There is something incredible in being down here , surrounded by these majestic creatures 🦈🦈
Our mission @fuvahmulahdivepoint is to encourage people to learn more about sharks , to don’t be afraid of them , to be excited to dive with them & curious to know more about their behaviors !
We can only protect what we Love 🙏🏼
🎥 @alexandrannedea
📍 @fuvahmulahdivepoint @maathundi
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#sharkove #enossystem #divesafe #sunnysideoflife #maldives #indianocean #fuvahmulah #divepointmaldives #divewithfriends #scubaaddict #opensea #Malediwy #Nurkowanie #Bezpiecznenuki #Bezpieczne #Wycieczkanurkowa
🦈Tiger sharks typically cruise at a relaxed pace of 3-5 km/h. This allows them to conserve energy while searching large areas for food.
At this speed, tiger sharks swim about 1.5-2 body lengths per second. This pace is comparable to a slow jog for a human.
Cruising speed provides tiger sharks the stamina to migrate long distances up to thousands of miles.
When attacking prey or migrating, tiger sharks can reach top speeds of around 32 km/h.
This maximum speed is around 5 times faster than their typical cruising speed, is faster than an Olympic swimmer and similar to an athletic human’s running speed.
Short bursts at top speed allow tiger sharks to pursue fast-moving prey like tuna, seals, and sea turtles.
Have you ever seen them in action ? 🦈🦈🦈🦈🦈
Booking & info
📞 +49 1520 1359621
📥 info@divepoint-maldives.com
🔗 https://divepoint-maldives.com
📍 @fuvahmulahdivepoint
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#sharks #speed #hunting #sharkscience #sharkdiving #sharklover #Rekin #Żarłacztygrysi #zarlach #Pelagiczny #Miłośnikrekinów #fuvahmulah
Even for us who dive here in Fuvahmulah every day, these face-to-face dives with tiger sharks are always amazing, unique and different from each other.
🦈🦈🦈🦈🦈
One thing should never be missing when diving, RESPECT ! For the ocean and it’s infinite power and for all the creatures that inhabit them.
When one combines RESPECT with GRATITUDE, will probably experience the best time of it’s life .
Are you with us ?
📍Fuvahmulah
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#sharkconservation #respect #lordofthesea #tigershark #pelagicworldwide #divepointmaldives #diveoftheweek
We collaborate with carefully selected local dive centers on Fuvahmulah that are excited to welcome DivePoint divers. Dive & Stay packages can be booked through us.
