So You Wanna Be BFFs with Sharks at the Denver Aquarium?
Ever looked longingly at the shark tank at your local aquarium and thought, "Man, I wish I could just hang out with those fellas?" Well, my friend, at the Denver Aquarium, your dreams (or perhaps nightmares?) can become reality! But hold on to your fins before you grab your goggles – swimming with these toothy tenants isn't quite as simple as jumping in the deep end.
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| Can You Swim With Sharks At The Denver Aquarium |
Dive Cage or Cage Dive? You Decide!
The Denver Aquarium offers two fin-tastic options for getting up close and personal with their collection of sharks, sawfish, and other underwater buddies.
Cage Dive: This option is perfect for the faint of heart (or those who, like me, prefer their shark encounters to come with a healthy dose of metal bars). Climb into a specially designed cage and get lowered into the "Sunken Shipwreck" exhibit, where you'll find yourself surrounded by a dazzling array of sea creatures. No need for fancy certifications here – just bring your sense of wonder and maybe a change of underwear (those sharks can be charismatic).
Shark Cage: This one's for the aquatic daredevils! If you've ever dreamt of being in a scene straight out of "Jaws" (minus the whole "being eaten" part), then this is the experience for you. You'll be submerged in a cage that sits right inside the main shark tank, giving you panoramic views of these magnificent predators as they glide by. No diving experience necessary, but be prepared to have your heart do a little aquatic jig!
Important Note: Both experiences require you to be in good health and complete a liability waiver. You wouldn't want to sue the aquarium because you forgot to mention your mild case of megalodon-phobia, would you?
So, How Much Does This Aquatic Adventure Cost?
Now, let's talk turkey (or perhaps shark fin soup?) These experiences aren't exactly cheap, but hey, how often do you get to say you swam with sharks? Prices can vary depending on the program you choose, but you're looking at an investment in the ballpark of a nice weekend getaway.
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead and book your spot in advance! These programs tend to fill up fast, especially on weekends.
FAQ: Become a Shark-Savvy Snorkeler
How to prepare for my shark encounter?
A good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast are key! You'll also want to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops allowed, unless you want to make a fishy fashion statement).
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
How old do I have to be to participate?
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The cage diving program requires participants to be at least 8 years old. The shark cage, on the other hand, is open to thrill-seekers 6 and up!
Do I need to know how to swim?
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
For the cage diving program, basic swimming skills are recommended for safety reasons. The shark cage experience, however, takes place in a shallow area so swimming ability isn't a requirement.
Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely! Capture all those fintastic moments (and maybe a selfie with a shark – just don't get too close!). Just be sure to check the program guidelines for any restrictions on camera size or type.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
Will the sharks try to eat me?
Not likely! The sharks at the Denver Aquarium are well-fed and accustomed to human visitors (separated by a safe distance, of course). These programs are designed to be educational and enjoyable for both you and the sharks.
So, there you have it! Now you're armed with all the knowledge you need to take the plunge (or climb into the cage) and have an unforgettable underwater adventure with some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures. Just remember, respect the sharks, keep your limbs inside the designated areas, and maybe avoid wearing anything too shiny – you don't want to look like a walking buffet!
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