The tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is one of the largest predatory sharks in the ocean. Adults commonly reach three to four metres, and the dark stripes that give it its name are clearest in young sharks and fade with age. It is a true generalist that eats almost anything the ocean offers, which makes it an important part of a healthy marine ecosystem.
In Fuvahmulah, tiger sharks live around the island all year, and most of the sharks seen on our dives are large females. At Tiger Garden, close to the harbour and at shallow depth, divers can watch them calmly from a fixed position on the bottom, often with several sharks around at the same time.
Tiger sharks are curious and confident, so every dive follows a clear protocol: a full briefing, staying close to the guide, no touching and no chasing. Respect for the animal and for the rules is what keeps these encounters safe and possible for years to come.
