Dive into the Heart of the Blue Shark Safari: Swim with the « Blues » in Cornwall!

Do you dream of a unique experience with sharks without going to the other side of the world? Every summer, magnificent blue sharks frequent the waters off Cornwall, just a few hours from France, to the delight of divers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Blue sharks, majestic ocean travelers

The blue shark (Prionace glauca), or « blue skin, » is a pelagic species famous for its long migrations. Capable of traveling thousands of kilometers, these elegant sharks cross the Atlantic each year in search of food — sardines, squids, mackerels — and temporarily settle off the southwest coast of the UK. Their flexible bodies and long pectoral fins allow them to face great distances and oceanic depths.

Luring blue sharks: the art of baiting in Cornwall

Shark specialist and photographer, Charles Hood, based in Penzance, has devoted his life to observing them. When encounters became scarce in California, he sought to find blue sharks closer to home. His secret to attracting them? A clever mix of fish heads, blood, and guts poured into the water to create a scent trail. Another trick: a fish head attached to a line, a simple temptation to spark their curiosity… without satiating them! With over ten years of experience, Charles now offers outings that attract divers, photographers, and documentary teams.

Diving with blue sharks: an adventure tale

The experience starts early in the morning in Penzance, under a often uncertain sky. It’s important to know that the British weather, even in summer, remains unpredictable — it’s better to book a stay of several days to maximize your chances (and plan B options, the magnificent beaches of Cornwall are ideal if an outing is canceled). We embark at 9 am on a RIB, heading offshore, more than 20 kilometers from the coast. Playful dolphins and morning mist accompany us; the sea, although rough, promises a day of action.