Dive With Whale Sharks Georgia Aquarium
Introduction
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It is home to thousands of animals, including whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. The Georgia Aquarium offers a unique opportunity for visitors to dive with these gentle giants and experience their beauty up close.
What are Whale Sharks?
Whale sharks are not whales, but rather the largest species of fish. They can grow up to 40 feet in length and weigh up to 20 tons. Despite their size, they are docile creatures that pose no threat to humans. They are filter feeders, using their enormous mouths to consume plankton and small fish.
Preparing for Your Dive
If you are interested in diving with whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium, there are a few things you should know. First, you must be a certified SCUBA diver. The aquarium offers a certification course if you are not already certified. You must also be at least 12 years old and in good physical health. The aquarium provides all necessary equipment, including wetsuits and tanks.
The Dive Experience
The dive with whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium is a truly unique experience. You will be accompanied by a dive guide and a photographer, who will capture your experience on camera. The dive takes place in the Ocean Voyager exhibit, which is the largest indoor aquatic habitat in the world. The exhibit contains over 6 million gallons of water and is home to thousands of animals, including whale sharks, manta rays, and giant groupers.
During the dive, you will be surrounded by the majestic whale sharks, who will swim gracefully around you. You will also see other marine life, such as stingrays and colorful tropical fish. The dive lasts for approximately 30 minutes, and you will have plenty of time to take in the beauty of the exhibit.
Conservation Efforts
The Georgia Aquarium is committed to marine conservation efforts and is involved in several initiatives to protect whale sharks and other marine life. The aquarium participates in research projects to better understand these creatures and their behavior. They also advocate for policies that protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Conclusion
Diving with whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. It is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants and to witness their beauty firsthand. The aquarium's commitment to conservation efforts ensures that these magnificent creatures will continue to thrive in their natural habitats for generations to come.
