Following a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is reinstating its popular underwater shark encounters, Shark Dive Xtreme, from 18 December.

The thrilling experience is fully submersive and cage-free, allowing you to get up close and personal with the aquarium’s huge Grey Nurse Sharks, Port Jackson Sharks, Wobbegong Sharks, rays and more.

The 2.5-hour adventure is suitable for up to eight people, split into two dive groups of four individuals and one dive instructor. No previous diving experience is necessary as full diver training and all equipment will be provided prior to the 30-minute oceanarium dive. At the end of the experience, there will be a de-brief session and certificate to take home.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Shark Dive Xtreme diver Caleb Mantle said the experience offers a great way to learn more about these beautiful and endangered creatures.

“The return of Shark Dive Xtreme is something to be excited for and will educate you on SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s conservation efforts,” Mantle said.

“We’re inviting guests to meet with our Grey Nurse Sharks, including Murdock, Mary-Lou and Striker. The species have been called ‘man eaters’ but they’re not harmful to humans, we refer to them as the puppy dogs of the shark world. They are very intelligent, and each has their own personality.”

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is home to 14 different species of sharks, who play an essential role in our ecosystem. Guests can learn about these magnificent marine creatures, which are often misunderstood, and are under threat from overfishing, the demand for shark products and habitat destruction.