I recently heard about a new experience the aquarium will be offering – a Dive with the Sharks program.  Offered to hotel guests of Mandalay Bay and THEhotel, this program will give certified divers the chance to accompany dive guides to hang out with over 30 sharks in the 1.2 million gallon exhibit.  Divers must be 18 years of age and older.

Dives are offered once per day, and there is a limit to two participants per dive.  The experience is a 4-hour commitment, during which you’ll have a chance to experience an up-close educational program about shark health and behavior.  The adventure begins with a guided tour of Shark Reef, where participants will learn about the various predators residing at the aquarium.  Then, you’ll get an orientation sessions and changed into wetsuits and don equipment.

Each dive will be a different experience, as they will be adapted to what’s going on in the life of the sharks.  Once in the water, participants will get up close and personal with sand tiger, white tip, and sandbar sharks, among others, along with green sea turtles, sawfish, and all sorts of other marine life.

Care has been taken to ensure the health and safety of all the marine life as well as the participants.  The limits on participants ensures personalized attention and safety throughout the entire experience.

The Dive with Sharks experience doesn’t come cheap — $650 for single diver or $1,000 for two divers (booked together).  This includes the guided tour of Shark Reef Aquarium, orientation session, the dive (about 45 minutes), and a post-dive snack.  All equipment is provided:  wetsuit, protective stainless steel chain maille as well as a mask, fins, tank, buoyancy-control device, regulator, weights and booties.  You’ll also receive a certificate and video of the dive.

Participants can bring up to four friends to watch the dive from outside the exhibit at no additional admission fee.  They can join in the introductory guided tour.

You must present a valid certification from a recognized dive instruction agency such as PADI or NAUI to participate.  The program is available four days per week, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Advance reservations are recommended.

Photo credit:  Courtesy of MGM MIRAGE

Post from: Fly Away Cafe