Palma de Mallorca: Shark Dive at Palma Aquarium

If you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime moment that combines the wonder of marine life with a healthy dose of adrenaline, then the Shark Dive at Palma Aquarium might just be the experience you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally tried it, I’ve gone through the details and reviews, and it’s clear this is a standout activity for those who want a safe yet exhilarating encounter with large sharks and rays in a controlled environment.

What I love about this experience is how it manages to balance adventure and safety perfectly. The fact that it’s led by qualified instructors means you’re in good hands, and the free entry for a companion makes it a smart choice if you’re traveling with someone who wants to see the action but not get in the water. On the flip side, a consideration to keep in mind is the requirement for medical certification and insurance, which can add some prep work, especially if you’re not a seasoned diver.

This activity will suit adventurous travelers who aren’t afraid of a bit of water and want to tick off a bucket list item while enjoying Mallorca’s best. It’s also a good pick for those who value professional guidance and a well-organized experience. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and you’ll need to meet health and safety prerequisites.

Key Points

• Unique opportunity to swim among large sharks in one of Europe’s deepest shark tanks
• Includes all necessary diving equipment and a professional instructor for safety and guidance
• Free entrance for a companion allows you to explore the aquarium post-dive at your leisure
• Requires medical certification and insurance; safety is prioritized
• Suitable for certified divers and non-certified divers with different depth limits
• Ideal for thrill-seekers and marine life enthusiasts looking for a memorable adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Palma Aquarium Shark Dive?

Imagine stepping into a vast, glass-encased tank, filled with hundreds of colorful fish, rays, and of course, 11 large sharks. That’s what makes the Palma Aquarium Shark Dive so special. It’s not just a glimpse; it’s a chance to swim alongside these impressive creatures in a setting designed for both safety and awe.

From the moment you arrive, a qualified instructor will brief you on the safety protocols and what to expect. Whether you have a diving license or not, the activity is tailored to your experience level—licensed divers can reach depths of 8.5 meters, while non-certified divers are limited to 4 meters. But don’t underestimate that depth—4 meters is plenty of water to get a real sense of the sharks’ environment.

After the briefing, it’s time to gear up. The activity lasts about 30 minutes of actual diving, but with the safety talk and preparation, expect the whole process to take around 40 minutes. The experience is designed to be both thrilling and reassuring, with all equipment provided and the instructor by your side.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Palma Aquarium

Your adventure begins right at the Palma Aquarium, a renowned marine park known for its impressive tanks and engaging displays. Arriving here, you’ll check in and meet your instructor, who will give you the essential safety briefing. This part is crucial—expect clear explanations about how the dive will unfold and what safety measures are in place.

Safety Briefing (around 40 minutes)

The safety briefing is thorough but friendly. It covers everything from how to communicate underwater to what to do if you feel uncomfortable. The instructor explains the rules of the Big Blue tank, so you’ll know how to behave around the sharks and rays. Reviewers like Philip appreciated how well-organized and reassuring the briefing was, noting, “We were never left alone and all our questions were answered.” That kind of attentiveness is what makes a potentially intimidating experience enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Dive (around 30 minutes)

Once suited up, you’ll enter the tank with your instructor. This is when the true magic happens: you’ll start swimming among 11 large, friendly sharks—a mix of species, all apparently quite accustomed to human presence. You can also spot rays and a variety of other fish swimming past you, creating a surreal, vibrant scene.

Heinrich Van summed it up nicely: “The guidance was top-notch. The man radiated enthusiasm in his work, and you notice that immediately.” This enthusiasm translates into an experience where you’ll feel safe yet excited. The view from inside the tank is striking — imagine looking around and seeing these majestic creatures swim just inches away.

Post-Dive Exploration

After the dive, your ticket includes free entry for you and a companion to explore the rest of Palma Aquarium. This gives you the flexibility to wander at your own pace, soaking in the other exhibits. It’s a nice bonus, especially if you want to make a full day out of your visit.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour includes all necessary diving equipment, a professional instructor fluent in multiple languages (English, Spanish, German), and diving insurance. Plus, the entry tickets for two are part of the package, which is good value considering the cost of individual tickets.

You’ll need to bring your own Diving Medical Certificate issued within the last 12 months and your own accident insurance. If you don’t have insurance, you can purchase it on-site. Keep in mind, the activity cannot be done 24 hours before or after a flight, to avoid the risks associated with flying with decompression or pressure concerns.

The Cost and Its Value

At around $236 per person, this isn’t a cheap activity, but it’s worth considering what’s included. Not only do you get to swim with sharks in one of the deepest tanks in Europe, but you also have all equipment, guidance, and free aquarium access. If you compare it to other adventure activities, this pricing is quite competitive, given the professional oversight and the uniqueness of the experience.

Reviewers appreciate the good value for money, especially when you think of the memories and photos you’ll take away. The fact that you get a full day’s worth of entertainment—both the adrenaline rush and the chance to explore the aquarium—is a bonus.

Safety and Practical Considerations

Since safety is a priority, the activity requires medical clearance and insurance. It’s also weather-dependent to some extent, as marine conditions can affect the schedule. The activity is not suitable for people with mobility issues, and it’s essential to follow all safety instructions.

It’s advisable to book in advance as availability may vary based on weather and biological conditions. Being prepared with the necessary documents ensures you won’t encounter last-minute surprises.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

If you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who’s always wondered what it’s like to be in the water with large, majestic sharks, this experience offers a safe and well-organized way to make that dream a reality. The professional guidance and safety measures provide peace of mind while allowing you to enjoy the stunning views and exhilaration.

It’s also a good pick for those who want a memorable story from Mallorca, especially if you’re interested in marine life or looking for a different kind of adventure. Just keep in mind the health and safety requirements, and you’ll be set for a fantastic time.

FAQs

Do I need a diving license for this activity?
No, if you don’t have a license, you can still participate, but your dive will be limited to 4 meters. Certified divers can go deeper, up to 8.5 meters.

How long does the entire experience take?
The total duration is about 1 day, including the safety briefing, gear-up, the 30-minute dive, and free time to explore the aquarium afterward.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your own accident insurance and a recent medical certificate. It’s also helpful to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and bring a towel.

Is it suitable for children?
The activity is designed for adults and teenagers who meet the health requirements. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for guidance?
Guidance is provided in English, Spanish, and German, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is there a risk of sharks attacking?
Not at all. The sharks are in a secure, glass-enclosed tank, and the activity is carefully supervised to ensure safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the activity is done indoors in a controlled tank, weather conditions usually don’t affect it, but biological factors can influence scheduling.

If you’re aching for a truly unforgettable experience in Mallorca that combines adventure, safety, and stunning visuals, the Palma Aquarium Shark Dive might just be your next highlight. It’s a chance to see marine life up close and push your comfort zone — all in one smooth, professional package.

You can check availability for your dates here: