If you’re planning a tropical getaway and wondering, “Does Bora Bora have sharks?”—the answer is a definite yes. But don’t worry—most sharks in Bora Bora are harmless and a highlight of any underwater adventure.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The most common sharks in Bora Bora and French Polynesia
- Which sharks are dangerous (if any)
- The best ways to see sharks safely
- Shark conservation efforts
Are Sharks in Bora Bora Dangerous?
It’s natural to be cautious, but the reality is:
There has never been a fatal shark attack in Bora Bora or anywhere in French Polynesia.
Most sharks in the region are non-aggressive and avoid humans. Shark-related activities like snorkeling and diving are safe and well-regulated, with trained guides ensuring responsible encounters.
Common Sharks in Bora Bora & French Polynesia
French Polynesia is home to over 20 species of sharks, thanks to its status as a shark sanctuary. Here are the most commonly seen species:
🦈 1. Blacktip Reef Shark
- Size: Up to 5 ft (1.5 m)
- Habitat: Lagoons and coral reefs
- Behavior: Calm, often seen in groups
- Danger Level: Harmless
These are the stars of snorkeling tours—curious but not aggressive.
🦈 2. Whitetip Reef Shark
- Size: Up to 6 ft (1.8 m)
- Habitat: Reefs and underwater caves
- Behavior: Nocturnal, often resting during the day
- Danger Level: Harmless
You’ll often spot them lying peacefully on the seafloor during dives.
🦈 3. Grey Reef Shark
- Size: Up to 8 ft (2.4 m)
- Habitat: Outer reefs and passes
- Behavior: More territorial, but not aggressive unless provoked
- Danger Level: Caution advised for divers
Common on scuba dives, especially in deeper reef areas.
🦈 4. Nurse Shark
- Size: Up to 10 ft (3 m)
- Habitat: Sandy bottoms and reefs
- Behavior: Slow and docile
- Danger Level: Harmless
These gentle giants are often seen resting on the ocean floor.
🦈 5. Lemon Shark
- Size: Up to 10 ft (3 m)
- Habitat: Lagoons and deeper waters
- Behavior: Calm, sometimes curious
- Danger Level: Low
Lemon sharks may appear during feeding tours or deep dives.
🦈 6. Tiger Shark (Less Common but Present)
- Size: Up to 16 ft (5 m)
- Habitat: Deep ocean and reef slopes
- Behavior: Solitary, opportunistic predator
- Danger Level: Potentially dangerous (rarely seen by tourists)
Usually spotted around remote atolls like Rangiroa or Fakarava. Rare near Bora Bora and not part of regular tours.
🦈 7. Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Rare Pelagic Species)
- Size: Up to 11 ft (3.3 m)
- Habitat: Open ocean
- Behavior: Bold and curious
- Danger Level: Potentially dangerous (extremely rare near shore)
Prefers deep waters far from shore. Very rarely seen on tours and poses no threat to visitors.
How to See Sharks Safely in Bora Bora
🐟 1. Snorkeling Tours
Join a shark & stingray lagoon tour where you’ll see blacktip reef sharks and rays in crystal-clear water. Suitable for all ages.
🤿 2. Scuba Diving
Explore coral walls and outer reef slopes. Great for spotting grey reef sharks, whitetips, and lemon sharks. Certified divers only.
🚤 3. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Perfect for non-swimmers or families. View sharks and marine life from the comfort of a boat.
🐠 4. Shark & Rays Excursions
Group & private tours, these are safe and conducted under strict guidelines.
Shark Conservation in French Polynesia 🐋
Since 2012, sharks are protected by law across French Polynesia, creating one of the world’s largest shark sanctuaries—over 4.7 million sq km of ocean.
This ensures the health of the marine ecosystem and makes shark tourism a sustainable and educational activity.
Final Thoughts: Should You Be Afraid of Sharks in Bora Bora?
Not at all! Most sharks you’ll see on tours are peaceful reef sharks. While species like tiger sharks and oceanic whitetips exist, they are rarely seen by tourists.
Shark encounters in Bora Bora are safe, eco-friendly, and unforgettable. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of the ocean’s most iconic species in their natural habitat.
Check out our Photo Tour to capture photos with the black tip sharks