The Ethics of Shark Finning: Impact & Controversy in 2025

From Cruelty to Conservation: The Changing Landscape of Shark Fishing

Shark finning has long been a controversial practice, drawing criticism for its cruelty and impact on marine ecosystems.

The process of removing a shark’s fin and discarding the rest of the animal into the ocean has been widely condemned, yet demand for shark fin soup and related products continues in certain parts of the world.

But how has shark finning changed over the years? Are there more humane or sustainable practices now? And what role do ethical fishing and marine conservation play in the future of this industry?

Featured Shark & Aquatic Tours

Explore the wonders of marine life with these exciting shark and aquatic tours:

• Las Vegas Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay – Get up close with sharks, rays, and exotic marine species in a stunning, immersive aquarium.
• 5-Island Day Trip Around Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan – Snorkel in pristine waters, encountering vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Maafushi Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Sand Bank & Dolphins Tour – Swim with gentle nurse sharks and stingrays, experiencing marine biodiversity up close.

The Evolution of Shark Finning and Its Ethical Alternatives

The Dark History of Shark Finning

For decades, shark finning has been one of the most controversial and cruel practices in the fishing industry. The method, which involves cutting the fins off live sharks and discarding the rest of the body into the ocean, has led to an alarming decline in global shark populations. Historically, shark fin soup has been regarded as a delicacy in many Asian cultures, symbolizing wealth and prestige. However, the unregulated demand has fueled unsustainable fishing practices, pushing some species toward extinction.

As awareness about the ecological importance of sharks has grown, public outcry and conservation efforts have forced some countries to implement bans and restrictions on shark finning. Despite this, the demand for shark fins remains high, with an estimated 100 million sharks killed annually. The stark reality is that while regulations have improved, illegal finning operations still exist, particularly in regions with weak enforcement.

Modern Practices and Sustainable Alternatives

With global pressure mounting, some fisheries have begun adopting more sustainable practices, ensuring that the entire shark is used rather than just the fins. In countries like Australia, shark meat—commonly sold as flake—has been a staple in fish and chip shops for decades. Rather than waste the rest of the animal, ethical fisheries advocate for a whole-use approach, which includes harvesting the meat, cartilage, and liver oil.

Additionally, some marine conservation groups and eco-conscious businesses have shifted focus toward shark tourism as an alternative economic model. By promoting shark diving, snorkeling, and marine safaris, coastal communities can benefit financially from keeping sharks alive rather than harvesting them. These experiences allow travelers to witness sharks in their natural habitat while contributing to shark conservation efforts.

The Role of Travelers in Marine Conservation

Tourists today play a crucial role in the preservation of marine life. Choosing to support sustainable seafood options, avoiding products derived from shark fins, and participating in eco-conscious shark tours can help drive the demand for ethical alternatives. Many countries have enacted bans on shark finning, but some still allow the trade to persist. It is up to consumers to educate themselves on sustainable choices and hold businesses accountable.

For those eager to experience sharks up close while supporting ethical conservation initiatives, guided shark encounters offer a thrilling yet responsible alternative. Many marine reserves and national parks now offer educational shark diving excursions, allowing travelers to interact with these majestic creatures while contributing to their protection.

Specialized Tours

Shark encounters can be an unforgettable experience when done ethically and responsibly. Here are some top-rated shark tourism experiences:

• Ultimate Encounters Snorkel with Sharks – A guided snorkeling adventure allowing participants to swim alongside reef sharks in their natural habitat.
• Oahu Shark Dive – An adrenaline-pumping shark diving experience off the coast of Hawaii, with no cages between you and the sharks.
• African Shark Eco Charters Shark Cage Diving Cape Town – A sustainable shark cage diving tour in South Africa, offering close-up encounters with great white sharks while emphasizing conservation.

Key Facts About Shark Conservation and Finning

• Global Impact: Over 100 million sharks are killed annually, with finning contributing significantly to population decline.
• Decline in Shark Populations: Some species, such as the oceanic whitetip shark, have experienced population declines of over 90% in the past few decades.
• Shark Fin Bans: More than 20 countries and territories have implemented bans on shark finning, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union.
• Sustainability Concerns: Sharks play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, maintaining balance by regulating prey populations.
• Alternative Uses of Shark Meat: In places like Australia, shark meat (commonly called flake) is consumed in fish and chip shops, providing a more sustainable alternative to finning.
• Conservation Efforts: Organizations such as Shark Trust and Oceana work to promote shark conservation through legislation and public awareness campaigns.

Travel Gear Suggestions

For those embarking on marine adventures or shark diving experiences, having the right gear is essential. Here are some recommended travel accessories:

• GoPro HERO10 Waterproof Action Camera – Capture underwater footage of marine life with stunning clarity and stabilization.
• Phantom Aquatics Premium Snorkel Set – A high-quality snorkel and mask set for shark snorkeling and reef exploration.
• Reef Safe Biodegradable Sunscreen SPF 50 – Protect your skin while ensuring no harm to marine life and coral reefs.
• Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Cooler – Keep your drinks and snacks cold for hours on long boat excursions.

Travel Guide to Shark Conservation Destinations

Best Time and Where to Visit

The best time to experience shark-related tours and conservation activities depends on the location, water visibility, and migration patterns of different shark species. Many of the world’s best shark conservation destinations operate year-round, but certain seasons offer the best conditions for visibility, safety, and shark interactions.

• Fiji and the Maldives: The best time for shark diving and snorkeling is from April to October, when the waters are at their calmest. This period also provides the clearest visibility, making it easier to see reef sharks, bull sharks, and even hammerheads in their natural habitat.
• South Africa: If you’re looking to experience great white sharks, the prime season is between May and September. This is when the sharks are most active, particularly around Gansbaai and Mossel Bay, known for cage diving experiences.
• Hawaii: The best time to dive with sharks in Hawaii is June to October, when the ocean conditions are more predictable and warm waters attract a variety of shark species, including reef sharks and tiger sharks.
• Australia (Ningaloo Reef): The famous whale shark season runs from March to July, while reef sharks and hammerheads can be seen year-round.
• Mexico (Guadalupe Island): For those seeking an ultimate great white shark encounter, the best time to visit is July to November when large adult sharks migrate to the island.

Local Tips & Safety Advice

Before embarking on a shark diving adventure, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are some useful safety tips and advice for a responsible and enjoyable experience:

• Follow tour operator guidelines: Always listen to the guides and adhere to local conservation laws. Ethical shark tourism promotes education and sustainability.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen: Many shark diving destinations have bans on harmful sunscreens to protect marine life and coral reefs.
• Avoid wearing shiny jewelry: Reflective objects can mimic fish scales, which may attract unintended shark attention.
• Stay calm in the water: Sharks are naturally curious but not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. Slow movements and proper breathing techniques can enhance the experience.
• Choose ethical operators: Always select tour providers who prioritize shark conservation and sustainable tourism practices over exploitation.
• Respect the marine ecosystem: Never touch or chase sharks. Observing them in their natural habitat without interference is the best way to ensure responsible wildlife encounters.

Must See Shark Locations

The best way to reach shark conservation hotspots depends on the destination. Here’s how to navigate some of the best places for shark tourism:

• Hawaii: Many shark diving locations are accessible via rental car or guided boat tours. Most operators provide transfers from nearby hotels or resorts.
• South Africa: Gansbaai and Mossel Bay are accessible from Cape Town, with daily shuttle services taking visitors to shark diving hubs.
• Australia (Ningaloo Reef): The easiest way to get to Ningaloo Reef is by flying into Learmonth Airport, then renting a car to reach Exmouth, where many tours depart.
• Fiji & The Maldives: Many shark diving excursions are arranged by resorts and dive centers, with speedboats and ferries transporting guests to prime dive sites.
• Mexico (Guadalupe Island): Most tours depart from Ensenada, Baja California, and require a liveaboard vessel to reach the remote island.
• Tiger Beach, Bahamas – One of the most famous dive sites in the world for up-close encounters with tiger sharks, as well as lemon sharks and reef sharks.
• Oahu, Hawaii – Home to a diverse range of reef sharks and deep-sea pelagic sharks, Oahu offers both cage diving and free diving experiences with experienced guides.

Shark tourism provides one of the most exhilarating and educational wildlife encounters, while also playing a crucial role in shark conservation efforts.

Whether you’re diving in warm tropical waters or observing great whites from the safety of a cage, these experiences help shift the narrative from fear to appreciation, ensuring that future generations can continue to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

More Tours in the Region

For those seeking even more opportunities to experience marine wildlife and conservation-focused tours, these highly-rated excursions provide unforgettable encounters with sharks and other oceanic wonders.

• Swim with Whale Sharks – Ningaloo Reef, Australia – Embark on a thrilling whale shark diving experience, swimming alongside these gentle giants in the stunning Ningaloo Reef.
• SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Entry Ticket – Discover the wonders of marine life at one of Australia’s premier aquariums, home to sharks, stingrays, and a diverse range of ocean creatures.
• Bora Bora Shark and Snorkel Safari – Enjoy an up-close snorkeling adventure, swimming with reef sharks and exploring the pristine waters of Bora Bora’s beautiful lagoons.

Final Thoughts

The opportunity to experience sharks in their natural habitat is not just thrilling but also an important step toward marine conservation awareness. Whether it’s swimming alongside whale sharks, diving in protective cages, or learning about sharks in world-class aquariums, these experiences allow travelers to engage with marine wildlife responsibly.

Choosing ethical tours that prioritize conservation over exploitation ensures that these incredible creatures continue to thrive for future generations.

If you’ve had an unforgettable shark diving or marine wildlife experience, share your story—we’d love to hear about it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is shark finning still legal?
   Many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, have banned shark finning. However, some regions still allow the practice or have weak enforcement of anti-finning laws.
2. Why is shark finning harmful?
   Shark finning is unsustainable and cruel, as sharks are often thrown back into the ocean alive without their fins, causing slow and painful deaths. It also disrupts marine ecosystems by removing top predators.
3. Are there ethical alternatives to shark finning?
   Yes. Some fisheries promote full-use shark harvesting, where the entire shark is utilized for food, reducing waste. Additionally, plant-based and synthetic alternatives to shark fins are being developed.
4. Where can I see sharks in a responsible way?
   Ethical shark diving and snorkeling tours in locations such as Hawaii, South Africa, the Bahamas, and Australia allow travelers to experience sharks without harming them.
5. Is shark meat safe to eat?
   While some cultures consume shark meat, it often contains high levels of mercury and heavy metals, making frequent consumption potentially harmful.
6. How can I help protect sharks?
   Support marine conservation organizations, choose sustainable seafood options, avoid purchasing shark products, and participate in responsible shark tourism experiences.
7. What are the best places for shark diving?
   Popular shark diving spots include Guadalupe Island (Mexico) for great whites, Ningaloo Reef (Australia) for whale sharks, and Fiji for bull sharks.