Georgia Aquarium Diving With Whale Sharks
Introduction
Do you want to experience swimming with the largest fish in the world? Then, you must visit the Georgia Aquarium and take part in their diving program with whale sharks. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss.
What are Whale Sharks?
Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, reaching up to 40 feet in length and weighing up to 20 tons. Despite their name, they are not whales but are actually a species of shark. They have distinctive patterns of white spots on their dark gray skin, making them easy to identify.
The Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is located in Atlanta, Georgia and is home to thousands of marine animals, including whale sharks. It is the only aquarium outside of Asia that houses whale sharks and is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with them.
The Diving Program
The diving program at the Georgia Aquarium allows visitors to get up close and personal with the whale sharks. Participants must be certified scuba divers and go through a training session before entering the tank. The dive lasts for 30 minutes, and you will be accompanied by a guide at all times.
What to Expect
Once you enter the tank, you will immediately be surrounded by thousands of fish, including the whale sharks. The tank is massive, holding over 6 million gallons of water. The whale sharks swim gracefully around you, and it's an unforgettable experience.
Facts About Whale Sharks
Here are some interesting facts about whale sharks:
- They are filter feeders, meaning they eat plankton and small fish.
- They can live up to 100 years.
- They are not aggressive and are harmless to humans.
- They can swim up to 3 miles per hour.
- They are listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Conclusion
Swimming with whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget. It's an opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures and to learn more about them. If you are a certified scuba diver, then make sure to add this to your bucket list.