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Business Details
40 Years
experience
World-Class Shark Diving Adventures
San Diego Shark Diving Expeditions has been pioneering Great White Shark diving since 1994, offering unparalleled underwater experiences in some of the world's most renowned shark habitats. Founded in 1986 by underwater filmmakers Bob Cranston and Marty Synderman, the company was acquired by Paul 'Doc' Anes in 1993, who expanded its global reputation through innovative expedition planning and safety protocols. Our team combines decades of marine expertise with cutting-edge equipment to deliver unforgettable encounters while maintaining strict adherence to conservation principles. We collaborate with leading marine biologists to support ongoing shark research initiatives at Guadalupe Island and other key locations. Our vessels feature state-of-the-art shark cages and comfortable accommodations, ensuring both safety and enjoyment for divers of all experience levels.

With a proven track record of over 35 years in operation, we maintain industry-leading safety standards while providing educational opportunities about marine ecosystems. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through direct financial support for shark conservation projects and partnerships with scientific institutions like CICMAR and UC Davis. We offer customized dive schedules based on seasonal shark migrations, maximizing sighting probabilities while respecting natural habitats. Our experienced crew includes NAUI-certified instructors and marine biology experts who provide comprehensive safety briefings and educational sessions. We maintain transparent operations with detailed trip logs submitted to Mexican conservation authorities to support ongoing research efforts.
Services
Great White Shark Diving Whale Shark Expeditions Tiger Shark Encounters Manta Ray Diving Underwater Photography Tours
Details
  • Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
  • We offer 35+ years of specialized shark diving expertise
  • Our vessels feature state-of-the-art safety equipment
  • We directly fund shark conservation research initiatives
  • Our crew includes NAUI-certified instructors and marine biologists
  • We maintain 98% seasonal shark sighting success rates
What people say
Unforgettable experience Professional crew Excellent safety record Guaranteed shark sightings Educational value
Services
Great White Shark Diving
Experience face-to-face encounters with Great White Sharks at Guadalupe Island. Our expeditions use specialized submersible cages and expert guidance for safe, unforgettable interactions. Trips include professional photography opportunities and marine biology education. We maintain 98% success rate for shark sightings during peak seasons while following strict conservation protocols.
Whale Shark Expeditions
Swim with the ocean's largest fish in their natural habitat at Isla Mujeres. Our expert-led excursions provide guaranteed whale shark encounters during seasonal migrations. Trips include snorkeling equipment, safety briefings, and eco-education sessions. We maintain sustainable practices with strict no-touch policies to protect these endangered creatures.
Manta Ray Diving
Explore Socorro's famous manta ray aggregation sites. Our divers enjoy unique interactions with these gentle giants in their natural environment. Expeditions include expert guidance, underwater photography assistance, and marine ecology education. We follow strict no-contact protocols to ensure animal welfare during these seasonal encounters.
People
Paul 'Doc' Anes
Owner/Instructor
NAUI-certified instructor since 1974 with 50+ years diving experience. Purchased the company in 1993 after working with original founders. Pioneered Great White Shark diving techniques at Guadalupe Island. Maintains active involvement in daily operations and safety protocol development.
Questions
What shark species will I encounter?
Great White Sharks at Guadalupe Island, Whale Sharks at Isla Mujeres, and multiple species including Tiger and Hammerhead Sharks in Fiji.
Are non-divers accommodated?
Surface observation and photography opportunities available for non-diving companions on select vessels.
What safety measures are in place?
All dives use reinforced shark cages with professional supervision. Mandatory safety briefings conducted before each expedition.
How does the company support conservation?
Portion of proceeds funds shark research. We maintain partnerships with marine biologists and submit daily observation logs to conservation authorities.
What equipment should I bring?
Basic dive gear recommended. Camera equipment lockers and charging stations available on all vessels.
Videos
Reviews (4)
George Kingston
Apr 18, 2021 Report
I went on shark dives in SanDiego, Guadalupe Island and Galapagos with Sdshark Diving and ever trip was fantastic. Ever trip was organized, safe and underwater experiences that I will always cherish. Doc Ames is an amazing person to be associated with above the water and below
George Kingston
Eduardo
Apr 16, 2021 Report
I enjoyed their professional shark dive services. I have been diving with San Diego Shark Diving Expeditions several times. I dove for open ocean sharks such as Blues and Maco Sharks. I also took the Isla de Guadalupe great white shark dives and I loved it. I spent the extended great white shark trip diving with the sharks in the mornings and later in the afternoon went fishing for some yellow tail tuna. I could not have had better trips. Much cheaper than going to south africa to do the same dives.
Mike Irving
Mar 31, 2021 Report
The DREAM trip that totally delivered!!! Had an absolute fabulous time diving with great whites at Guadalupe Island. So good we booked a second trip! Plenty of cage time with amazing photo opportunities. When not in cage ---on deck was fun too. Able to help make chum and cannon shoot it. Treats, snacks, and food delicious. Accommodations adequate. I would have stayed for a month if I could have. The trip over is long but SO worth it. Doc has been doing this trip for years. He knows his stuff and is so knowledgeable. PERFECT! PERFECT! PERFECT! I have no suggestions for improvement. From boarding
James Krueger
Mar 26, 2021 Report
Great white shark cage diving, at Guadalupe Island, Mexico, via short trip from San Diego to Guadalupe, the breeding area for great whites in the northern hemisphere, is short. A week of mellow cage diving in water some ten to twelve feet deep allows hours of exciting below water camera time as air breathed is not compressed. In excellent visibility, the highly trained crew, and the bossman, Doc Anes, are as experienced as anyone engaged in this activity.
Aloha,
Jim Krueger, Maui waterman