Great White Shark Cage Construction

Running a safe and successful shark diving expedition is a challenge no matter how you look at it. Professional cage diving operations make the process look simple but in reality, the myriad tasks involved in bring a group of divers to a remote location such as Guadalupe Island to dive with Great White Sharks provide a considerable logistical feat. One detail of great importance that often goes undiscussed is cage construction. Great White Shark cages are the workhorses of the industry as they spend the most time in the water on the front lines. Couple that with the fact that the cages are where the average shark diver spends most of his or her time and the need for safety, reliability and comfort becomes apparent.

Safety, for obvious reasons is at the forefront of shark cage design - it only takes a quick YouTube search to see the results of poorly constructed cages and how they fare when a shark comes into contact with them. Of course, a shark interacting with a cage is undesirable, but all cages should be constructed with that possibility in mind. In the shark diving industry, cage designs are unique. Certain operators prefer certain characteristics or features and often, the boat or dive site may play a role in design. Beyond personal preference, however, there are a few recognized design features inherent in the industry's best cages.

First, and most prominent is competent welding. Cages that are built with nuts and bolts are inferior for several reasons, some of which are quite obvious. Stainless fasteners on aluminum cages cause corrosion often resulting in a compromised cage, fasteners or both. Additionally, nuts and bolts need to be constantly monitored to make sure the affects of the ocean haven't loosened them. To overcome these inadequacies most commercial grade shark diving cages are welded. While there are several options when it comes to weld techniques, TIG (or Tungsten inert gas) is preferred. Cleaner welds, better penetration and easier access to every seam makes TIG welding the safest when it comes the great white shark cages.

The other key component to proper shark cage construction is the experience for the end user. Standing on your tip-toes or bending over during long stretches underwater can detract from your experience and have an effect on pictures and videos. Most Great White Shark cages have customized viewing ports for ease of use when it comes to underwater cameras that often incorporate strobes.

Before you make a decision on your shark diving vacation of a lifetime, make sure you research the cage setup - it's where you'll spend most of your time! Professional operators can speak knowledgeably about their equipment and are your best resource.

Islander Charters
http://www.islander-charters.com
619-224-4388