Business Details
29 Years
experience
Thrilling Shark Diving Expeditions in the Bahamas & Beyond
Abernethy's Scuba Adventures has been pioneering cage-free shark diving expeditions for over 40 years, founded on a deep commitment to marine conservation and education. Our team of expert guides brings decades of experience in leading immersive encounters with large predatory sharks, including tiger, great hammerhead, and oceanic white tip sharks. We operate in renowned locations such as the Bahamas, Mexico, and Florida, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to engage with marine wildlife in their natural habitats. Our mission extends beyond adventure, focusing on transforming divers into advocates for shark protection through hands-on experiences and outreach initiatives. The Shear Water, our 14-passenger liveaboard vessel, serves as a floating classroom and base for expeditions, combining comfort with ecological responsibility.With a legacy of innovation, we introduced the worlds first cage-free shark encounters, setting industry standards for safety and ethical practices. Our conservation efforts are channeled through WildlifeVOICE, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems. Guests benefit from personalized service, expert-led photography sessions, and a commitment to sustainable tourism. We prioritize safety, education, and environmental stewardship, ensuring every dive contributes to broader conservation goals. Our teams passion for marine life is matched by their dedication to creating unforgettable, impactful experiences for divers of all skill levels.
Services
Hammerhead Shark Trips
Tiger Shark Expeditions
Whale Shark Swims
Baja Ocean Safaris
Palm Beach Diving
Wild Dolphin Encounters
Oceanic White Tip Trips
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience pioneering cage-free shark diving.
- Our team includes award-winning conservationists and expert marine biologists.
- We operate the Shear Water, a dedicated liveaboard vessel for immersive expeditions.
- Our conservation efforts are channeled through the nonprofit WildlifeVOICE.
- We offer personalized encounters with up to seven shark species in their habitats.
Services
Hammerhead Shark Trips
Join our November-May expeditions to encounter great hammerhead sharks in the Bahamas. Our expert guides ensure safe, immersive dives with these majestic creatures in crystal-clear waters. Guests often observe multiple species during these trips.
Tiger Shark Expeditions
Year-round trips to Tiger Beach offer unparalleled encounters with tiger sharks. Our pioneering cage-free methodology prioritizes ethical interactions while educating guests about shark conservation and behavior.
Whale Shark Swims
Swim alongside gentle whale sharks in Mexicos rich marine ecosystems. These expeditions combine adventure with education, highlighting the importance of protecting these endangered giants.
Baja Ocean Safaris
Explore Bajas diverse marine life, including whales, sea lions, and mobula rays. This expedition blends adventure with ecological discovery in one of the planets most biodiverse regions.
Wild Dolphin Encounters
Swim with friendly Atlantic spotted dolphins during summer months in the Bahamas. Our guides ensure respectful interactions while showcasing the intelligence and social nature of these marine mammals.
People
Jim Abernethy
Founder & Lead Guide
Award-winning conservationist and pioneer of cage-free shark diving. With over 40 years of experience, Jim leads expeditions focused on education and marine protection through WildlifeVOICE.
Michael OHagan
Captain & Photographer
Photographer, divemaster, and captain of the Shear Water. Michael combines his passion for marine life with expertise in guiding guests through shark encounters and underwater photography.
Nick Van Sicklen
Divemaster
Shark enthusiast with global experience in renowned shark hotspots. Nick specializes in educating guests about shark behavior and conservation during expeditions.
Gabrielle Wolfe
Chef & Divemaster
Multitalented crew member skilled in gourmet meal preparation and shark diving. Gabrielle combines culinary expertise with marine conservation efforts during liveaboard trips.
Koy Jacobson
Scuba Instructor
Certified instructor passionate about ocean conservation. Koy teaches diving techniques and leads guests in exploring marine ecosystems, emphasizing safety and environmental stewardship.
Questions
What shark species will I encounter on your trips?
Our expeditions feature tiger sharks, great hammerheads, oceanic white tips, bull sharks, and whale sharks, depending on the location and season.
Are your dives safe for inexperienced divers?
Yes, our guides accommodate all skill levels. Safety briefings and gradual introductions ensure comfort for beginners during cage-free dives.
How does your company support shark conservation?
We partner with WildlifeVOICE to fund research and advocacy. Our expeditions educate guests on shark protection and sustainable marine practices.
What should I bring on a liveaboard trip?
Bring dive gear, underwater cameras, and personal items. We provide meals, tanks, and expert guidance for a seamless experience.
Can children participate in diving expeditions?
Guests must be certified divers. We recommend minimum age 12 for safety, with customized experiences for younger marine enthusiasts.
Reviews (5)
Dawn Jennings
Aug 04, 2021
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I'm giving this a 4 star only because the front desk communication was inaccurate or wrong on a number of occasions. It may have been that COVID resulted in trip cancellation from 2020 and everything was in a state of flux, I don't know. Overall, the trip was awesome. The arranged hotel's shuttle was obvious at the airport and seamless. The ferry's run every hour to the island. Go to the kiosk to buy round-trip tickets when the shuttle drops you off and make sure you keep the return tickets in a safe location - you'll need them for the return. Once on the island, find a taxi past the main entrance
Jami Swafford
Feb 26, 2021
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I did the 2 Day/3 Night to Tiger Beach in October, it was one of the most amazing things I've ever done. Jim and his staff are friendly, accommodating and obviously love sharks. Being close enough to a 14 foot Tiger to make eye contact and know they are looking back at you just as intently, is indescribable. I can't wait to do it again and would highly recommend to anyone who wants to get up close and personal with sharks!
Salil Gandhi
Jan 29, 2019
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Did a short 3 night 2 day Tiger Beach trip for Lemon and Tiger sharks. Saw and photographed to our heart's content. Absolutely first rate experienced and safe crew. Many thanks to Colin, Corey, Jeff, Jason, Ryan and Jim. If you're looking for a first rate experience and encounter vs a luxury trip, don't hesitate to book through them. They're fantastic!
Peter Ollendorf
Oct 18, 2016
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Was aboard the Shear Water for the Tiger and Great Hammerhead Shark expedition in mid-February 2016. Fantastic trip filled with incredible sharks (Tigers, Hammers, Lemon, Reef, Bull, and Nurse) ! The crew was awesome - helpful, informative, and patient - thanks to Mike, Gerard, George, and Carolyn ! I couldn't recommend this trip more highly... book it, it will be the trip of a lifetime for any shark enthusiast!
Todd Ellis
Dec 25, 2015
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This was one of the most enjoyable and pleasurable dive experiences I've had in a long time. The staff was extremely gracious and knowledgeable and assured me that my group and I would have a great time. That was an understatement! When it came to choosing a dive center we wanted to find one that would provide some major adventure and safety (had some not-so-safe dive experiences with a few other companies in the past). We found it. The dive itself was max level awesome! The dive guides rock! Saw sharks, eels, and some incredible sea life. Highly, HIGHLY recommend this company. We will definitely
