DANCING WITH GREATNESS
The great hammerheads approach and are hand-fed as the divers get to witness the ocean ’ s most mesmerising creatures . The dive is anywhere from six to 12 metres depending on the water conditions . This means a single tank of air can last over an hour . While I love scuba diving with these sharks , there is something really special about laying on the sand bottom with a single breath , waiting for a dance .
Freediving with wildlife always requires respect , and with great hammerheads , a beautiful interaction also requires a lot of patience . Believe it or not , these sharks have unique personalities . Some are bold , while others are shy and may take a while to come closer .
I have learnt so much about the species and sharks in general by simply observing them . I have gotten to know the regulars like Amphitrite , Atlas , and Gaia over the years , and I usually know how they will behave when they show up . Interestingly , the Bimini Shark Lab , a local research centre , has named most of the identified individuals after Greek gods and goddesses .
I see Scylla , my favourite shark on the planet , in the distance and I breathe up , ready to descend into the blue . I glide to the sand bottom and position myself along the path I think she will travel and settle on my knees with my camera poised and ready . Scylla moves directly towards me before cruising up and over my head . I admire her beautiful ventral markings , which make her easily identifiable . Gaia and Queen , two of the largest great hammerheads in the area , have arrived .
Patience is really necessary ; not every drop leads to a close encounter . Sometimes , the sharks turn or head in a different direction than you anticipated . It ’ s important not to chase after the sharks . The best moments happen when you wait for them to approach .
I breathe up one last time , slip beneath the surface , and cruise along with Gaia and Queen , taking in the absolute beauty of this moment . Time disappears as you drop into the ocean over and over again , sharing a moment and a space with such a magnificent animal .
▾ | Below : The shape of a great hammerhead is unmistakable and mesmerising
7 | SDOP