{"id":18243,"date":"2026-08-22T05:56:06","date_gmt":"2026-08-22T05:56:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/?p=18243"},"modified":"2026-08-22T05:56:10","modified_gmt":"2026-08-22T05:56:10","slug":"shark-etiquette-code","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/","title":{"rendered":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shark Etiquette Code<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shark encounters are one of the highlights of diving around the Gili Islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many divers, seeing their first shark underwater is an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives. Around Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan, divers regularly encounter whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, including juveniles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But perhaps we need to start asking a different question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Are we behaving correctly when we encounter them?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A few days ago, we saw something at Halik that made us think seriously about this question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A group of divers was lying flat on the bottom in front of the shark cave, apparently trying to get photographs of the juvenile sharks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Oceans 5 Gili Air, this is exactly the kind of diving behaviour we don&#8217;t want to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not from our students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not from our certified divers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And especially not from Divemasters and instructors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Shark Etiquette.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Seeing a Shark Doesn&#8217;t Give Us the Right to Disturb It<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we enter the ocean, we enter the sharks&#8217; environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The shark hasn&#8217;t entered our dive centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have entered its home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That distinction is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a juvenile reef shark is resting underneath an overhang or inside a cave, our desire to get a photograph shouldn&#8217;t become more important than the animal&#8217;s ability to behave naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Responsible shark tourism is not a new idea. WWF, Project AWARE and The Manta Trust developed&nbsp;<em>Responsible Shark and Ray Tourism: A Guide to Best Practice<\/em>, providing science-based guidance designed to help operators minimize impacts on sharks, rays and their habitats.[1]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Research into shark-diving tourism has also found widespread use of formal codes of conduct among shark-tourism operators. One study reported that 93% of surveyed shark operators had a formal code of conduct and concluded that such codes should define acceptable diver behaviour and appropriate numbers of divers.[2]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So why shouldn&#8217;t we consider a simple local Shark Etiquette Code for the Gili Islands?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What We Saw at Halik<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Halik is one of the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/dive-sites\/\"> best-known dive sites<\/a> around Gili Trawangan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Divers visit the area for turtles, beautiful reef scenery and, of course, the possibility of encountering sharks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the shark cave, juvenile sharks can sometimes be observed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?resize=1024%2C576&#038;quality=89&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?resize=300%2C169&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?resize=768%2C432&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?resize=1536%2C864&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Conservation-Gili-Air.jpeg?w=2048&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that creates a temptation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A diver wants a better photograph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then another diver moves closer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Someone goes down to the bottom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another diver follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soon, instead of observing the sharks from the water column, a group can end up lying on the seabed in front of the place where the animals are resting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps nobody intends to harm anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But&nbsp;<strong>good intentions don&#8217;t automatically create good diving behaviour.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Oceans 5, the principle is simple:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>We don&#8217;t need to lie on the bottom to watch a shark.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are scuba divers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can hover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Neutral Buoyancy Is More Than a Diving Skill<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we teach our students to dive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/perfect-buoyancy-specialty\/\">neutrally buoyant<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That philosophy starts during diver education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In open water, we don&#8217;t want students using the seafloor as their classroom. Skills are performed neutrally buoyant because we believe students should learn from the beginning how real divers should behave underwater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We recently explained this philosophy in our article&nbsp;<em>Should Dive Students Be Allowed to Touch the Seafloor?<\/em>[3]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Neutral buoyancy isn&#8217;t only about becoming a better-looking diver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A diver who can control their buoyancy doesn&#8217;t need to grab coral.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They don&#8217;t need to kneel on the reef.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They don&#8217;t need to lie on the bottom to take a photograph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And they don&#8217;t need the seabed to provide stability while watching marine life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That becomes particularly important when we encounter animals such as sharks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Divemaster Sets the Example<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is another important part of this discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Guests copy their dive professionals.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a Divemaster lies on the bottom to photograph a shark, what message does that give the four divers following them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That it is acceptable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an instructor kneels beside the reef to get a photograph, why should we be surprised when their students do the same thing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why shark etiquette shouldn&#8217;t only be aimed at tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It should start with us\u2014the dive professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Divemasters and instructors are not simply underwater tour guides. Our behaviour demonstrates what responsible diving looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we remain neutrally buoyant, keep an appropriate distance and calmly observe an animal, our divers are much more likely to do the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional behaviour creates diver behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maybe the Gili Islands Need Shark Etiquette<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have dive briefings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have safety procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We discuss currents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We discuss maximum depths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We discuss buddy systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain entry and exit procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So why shouldn&#8217;t we spend another minute explaining how to behave when we encounter sharks?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A simple&nbsp;<strong>Gili Islands Shark Etiquette<\/strong>&nbsp;could become part of the dive briefing at sites where sharks are regularly encountered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn&#8217;t need to be complicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Proposed Shark Etiquette for the Gili Islands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Stay neutrally buoyant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Observe sharks from the water column. Don&#8217;t deliberately lie, sit or kneel on the seabed to get closer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Give sharks space<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t crowd a resting shark or position a group directly around its shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Never chase a shark<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the shark swims away, let it swim away. An encounter should happen on the animal&#8217;s terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Never touch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sharks are wild animals, not underwater attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Don&#8217;t block their route<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always give the animal an easy way to move away from divers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Stay calm<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid sudden movements and unnecessary excitement. International shark-encounter guidance similarly recommends remaining calm, staying with the group and never deliberately touching, harassing or attracting sharks.[4]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. The photograph comes second<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t sacrifice buoyancy, environmental awareness or responsible behaviour for a picture or video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. Divemasters and instructors lead by example<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The professional should demonstrate the behaviour expected from the group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. Brief before the dive<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If sharks are likely to be encountered, explain the etiquette before entering the water\u2014not after something has already happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. Observe\u2014don&#8217;t interfere<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The objective should be to watch natural behaviour, not change that behaviour to create a better encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Shark Cave Isn&#8217;t a Photo Studio<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This might be the most important message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A shark cave is not an underwater photo studio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sharks are not there for us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They haven&#8217;t positioned themselves underneath an overhang so divers can create better Instagram content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we encounter them, we are fortunate enough to witness a small part of their natural lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our objective should therefore be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Leave the shark behaving exactly as it was before we arrived.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a very different philosophy from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How close can I get?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And perhaps that simple change in mentality is what responsible shark diving really requires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conservation Has to Be Part of Everyday Diving<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oceans 5 Gili Air operates within the <a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/@oceans5dive\/oceans-5-gili-air-a-beacon-of-marine-conservation-and-diving-excellence-08ce49957f81\">Gili Matra Marine Protected Area<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For us, supporting marine conservation doesn&#8217;t only mean participating in occasional projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We support research and data collection around the Gili Islands and work with organizations and institutions including Indonesian government authorities and the University of Mataram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scientific research is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Data collection is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Monitoring reefs is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But conservation also happens during an ordinary 60-minute recreational dive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every time a Divemaster tells somebody not to touch the reef, that is conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every time an instructor teaches a student proper buoyancy, that is conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every time a photographer decides not to chase an animal for a better picture, that is conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And every time a group observes a shark without disturbing it, that is conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Green Fins similarly approaches environmental responsibility as something that should be integrated into everyday marine-tourism operations. Its Code of Conduct contains environmental standards covering operators, staff and tourists, both above and below the water.[5]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shark Etiquette Could Be Bigger Than Oceans 5<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We don&#8217;t think this should necessarily become an &#8220;Oceans 5 rule.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It could become something much more useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine if dive centres around Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan agreed on a simple shark etiquette.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different dive centres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different training organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different instructors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different Divemasters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>But the same message.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we encounter sharks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Respect their space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remain neutrally buoyant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t touch the bottom unnecessarily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t chase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t surround.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t disturb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Observe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If every Divemaster included those principles in their briefing, thousands of divers visiting the Gili Islands every year could hear the same conservation message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is how a small idea can create a much larger impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Better Divers Can Create Better Shark Encounters<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is another benefit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Responsible behaviour doesn&#8217;t necessarily make a shark encounter less exciting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may make it better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A group of calm, neutrally buoyant divers observing from an appropriate position is very different from several divers crawling towards an animal with cameras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Responsible shark tourism guidelines internationally are designed around exactly this principle: providing memorable experiences while reducing impacts on animals and habitats.[1]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal shouldn&#8217;t be getting as close as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal should be creating an encounter where&nbsp;<strong>our presence matters as little as possible to the shark.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maybe It Is Time<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The incident we saw at Halik isn&#8217;t about attacking another dive centre or blaming individual divers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It should start a conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We all operate in the same marine environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We all benefit from healthy reefs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We all benefit when divers see turtles, sharks, rays and other marine life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And therefore we all share some responsibility for how that environment is treated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Oceans 5 Gili Air, our position is clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We don&#8217;t want our Divemasters or instructors lying on the bottom in front of a shark cave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We don&#8217;t want our students learning that behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want our divers neutrally buoyant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want sharks to have space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And we want marine-life encounters to happen with as little interference as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps it is time to take the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Let&#8217;s introduce Shark Etiquette around the Gili Islands.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not because sharks need another rule written about them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because sometimes&nbsp;<strong>we humans need rules to remind us how to behave around wildlife.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sharks were here before our dive centres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The least we can do is behave respectfully when we visit them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is shark etiquette?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shark etiquette is a simple set of behavioural guidelines explaining how divers and dive professionals should act when encountering sharks. Its purpose is to reduce disturbance, protect the surrounding environment and encourage responsible wildlife tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should divers lie on the bottom to watch sharks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we believe they shouldn&#8217;t. Divers who have adequate buoyancy control can observe sharks while remaining neutrally buoyant. Deliberately lying on the seabed simply to get closer or obtain a photograph is unnecessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is neutral buoyancy important around sharks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Neutral buoyancy allows divers to maintain their position without using the seabed for support. It also helps them maintain an appropriate distance, control their movements and avoid unnecessary environmental contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should shark etiquette be included in dive briefings?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We believe so. At dive sites where shark encounters are reasonably likely, a short explanation before entering the water could establish expectations for the entire group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is shark etiquette only for recreational divers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. In many ways it is even more important for Divemasters and instructors because guests frequently copy the behaviour demonstrated by dive professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does Oceans 5 want shark etiquette only at Halik?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Halik started this particular discussion, but the principle can apply anywhere around Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan where divers encounter sharks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the most important rule?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps the simplest rule is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Observe without interfering.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the shark has to change its behaviour because we want a photograph, we should ask ourselves whether we are already too close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">References<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>[1]<\/strong>&nbsp;WWF, Project AWARE &amp; The Manta Trust.&nbsp;<em>Responsible Shark and Ray Tourism: A Guide to Best Practice.<\/em>&nbsp;The guide provides science-based tools for shark and ray tourism operators, communities and marine managers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>[2]<\/strong>&nbsp;Richards, K. et al. (2015).&nbsp;<em>Sharks and people: Insight into the global practices of tourism operators and their attitudes to shark behaviour.<\/em>&nbsp;Marine Pollution Bulletin. The study discusses formal codes of conduct, diver behaviour and operator responsibility in shark tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>[3]<\/strong>&nbsp;Oceans 5 Gili Air (2026).&nbsp;<em>Should Dive Students Be Allowed to Touch the Seafloor?<\/em>&nbsp;Oceans 5&#8217;s approach to teaching open-water skills neutrally buoyant and connecting diver education with conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>[4]<\/strong>&nbsp;SHARKPROJECT.&nbsp;<em>Shark Encounter Recommendations.<\/em>&nbsp;Guidance includes remaining calm, staying with the group and avoiding touching, harassing or deliberately attracting sharks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>[5]<\/strong>&nbsp;Green Fins.&nbsp;<em>Environmental Standards and Code of Conduct.<\/em>&nbsp;Environmental standards for marine tourism operators, staff and tourists designed to reduce impacts on marine ecosystems.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Shark Etiquette Code Shark encounters are one of the highlights of diving around the Gili Islands. For many divers, seeing their first shark underwater is an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives. Around Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan, divers&nbsp;<a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/\">&hellip;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18244,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[54],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18243","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scuba-tips"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2048\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1152\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"oceans5dive\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@oceans5dive\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@Oceans5dive\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"oceans5dive\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"oceans5dive\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/f19621a9082538d54411cd21d5efd0a8\"},\"headline\":\"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands?\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2157,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"articleSection\":[\"Scuba Tips\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/\",\"name\":\"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00\",\"description\":\"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"width\":2048,\"height\":1152,\"caption\":\"Shark Etiquette Code | Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/shark-etiquette-code\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands?\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog\",\"description\":\"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Oceans 5\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2017\\\/04\\\/Oceans5IDC_square.jpg?fit=510%2C510&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2017\\\/04\\\/Oceans5IDC_square.jpg?fit=510%2C510&quality=89&ssl=1\",\"width\":510,\"height\":510,\"caption\":\"Oceans 5\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/oceans5dive\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/Oceans5dive\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/oceans5dive\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/1500367\",\"https:\\\/\\\/id.pinterest.com\\\/IDCGiliIslands\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCsXNbXiAjrrf2gBErm5y6hg\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/f19621a9082538d54411cd21d5efd0a8\",\"name\":\"oceans5dive\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g\",\"caption\":\"oceans5dive\"},\"description\":\"Oceans 5 Gili Air is a leading SSI Instructor Training Center in Indonesia, located on the tropical island of Gili Air in Lombok. Established in 2010, Oceans 5 has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality scuba diving courses, from beginner programs to professional-level training such as the SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC Indonesia). As one of the most established dive centers on Gili Air, Oceans 5 specializes in small group diving, personalized instruction, and strict adherence to international diving standards. The dive center offers a full range of SSI courses, including Basic Diver programs, Open Water certifications, Divemaster training, and instructor-level courses. This makes Oceans 5 Gili Air a top choice for those looking to learn to dive in Indonesia or start a professional diving career. A key focus of Oceans 5 is creating confident, environmentally aware divers and instructors. Unlike traditional teaching methods, all skills are taught in neutral buoyancy, preparing divers for real-world conditions and making graduates more employable worldwide. This modern approach to dive education sets Oceans 5 apart from other dive centers in the Gili Islands. Located in the protected Gili Matra Marine Park, Oceans 5 Gili Air is deeply committed to marine conservation in Indonesia. The dive center organizes weekly beach cleanups, supports reef conservation initiatives, and collaborates with local organizations and universities, including the University of Mataram. These efforts position Oceans 5 as a conservation-focused dive center in the Gili Islands. The facilities at Oceans 5 include spacious training pools, modern classrooms, on-site accommodation, and dedicated dive boats. Combined with experienced instructors and a strong community atmosphere, Oceans 5 provides a complete environment for both learning and enjoying the island lifestyle. Whether you are looking for scuba diving in Gili Air, a Divemaster internship in Indonesia, or an SSI Instructor Course, Oceans 5 Gili Air offers a professional, safe, and environmentally responsible pathway into the diving world.\",\"sameAs\":[\"http:\\\/\\\/www.oceans5dive.com\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/oceans5dive\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/oceans5dive\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/1500367\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.pinterest.com\\\/Oceans5Dive\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/oceans5dive\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCsXNbXiAjrrf2gBErm5y6hg\"]}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog","description":"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog","og_description":"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code","og_url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/","og_site_name":"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive\/","article_author":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive","article_published_time":"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2048,"height":1152,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"oceans5dive","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@oceans5dive","twitter_site":"@Oceans5dive","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"oceans5dive","Est. reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/"},"author":{"name":"oceans5dive","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/f19621a9082538d54411cd21d5efd0a8"},"headline":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands?","datePublished":"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/"},"wordCount":2157,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1","articleSection":["Scuba Tips"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/","url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/","name":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands? - SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1","datePublished":"2026-08-22T05:56:06+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-22T05:56:10+00:00","description":"Maybe it is time for the dive community around the Gili Islands to introduce something new: Shark Etiquette Code","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1","contentUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1","width":2048,"height":1152,"caption":"Shark Etiquette Code | Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/shark-etiquette-code\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Do We Need a Shark Etiquette Code for Diving the Gili Islands?"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/","name":"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Blog","description":"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Oceans 5","url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Oceans5IDC_square.jpg?fit=510%2C510&quality=89&ssl=1","contentUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Oceans5IDC_square.jpg?fit=510%2C510&quality=89&ssl=1","width":510,"height":510,"caption":"Oceans 5"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive\/","https:\/\/x.com\/Oceans5dive","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/oceans5dive\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/1500367","https:\/\/id.pinterest.com\/IDCGiliIslands\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCsXNbXiAjrrf2gBErm5y6hg"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/f19621a9082538d54411cd21d5efd0a8","name":"oceans5dive","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e31b907f2c67f790d81434b3932321c50be11c8c2339a7715317f8ec6e3ff1af?s=96&d=identicon&r=g","caption":"oceans5dive"},"description":"Oceans 5 Gili Air is a leading SSI Instructor Training Center in Indonesia, located on the tropical island of Gili Air in Lombok. Established in 2010, Oceans 5 has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality scuba diving courses, from beginner programs to professional-level training such as the SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC Indonesia). As one of the most established dive centers on Gili Air, Oceans 5 specializes in small group diving, personalized instruction, and strict adherence to international diving standards. The dive center offers a full range of SSI courses, including Basic Diver programs, Open Water certifications, Divemaster training, and instructor-level courses. This makes Oceans 5 Gili Air a top choice for those looking to learn to dive in Indonesia or start a professional diving career. A key focus of Oceans 5 is creating confident, environmentally aware divers and instructors. Unlike traditional teaching methods, all skills are taught in neutral buoyancy, preparing divers for real-world conditions and making graduates more employable worldwide. This modern approach to dive education sets Oceans 5 apart from other dive centers in the Gili Islands. Located in the protected Gili Matra Marine Park, Oceans 5 Gili Air is deeply committed to marine conservation in Indonesia. The dive center organizes weekly beach cleanups, supports reef conservation initiatives, and collaborates with local organizations and universities, including the University of Mataram. These efforts position Oceans 5 as a conservation-focused dive center in the Gili Islands. The facilities at Oceans 5 include spacious training pools, modern classrooms, on-site accommodation, and dedicated dive boats. Combined with experienced instructors and a strong community atmosphere, Oceans 5 provides a complete environment for both learning and enjoying the island lifestyle. Whether you are looking for scuba diving in Gili Air, a Divemaster internship in Indonesia, or an SSI Instructor Course, Oceans 5 Gili Air offers a professional, safe, and environmentally responsible pathway into the diving world.","sameAs":["http:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com","https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/oceans5dive","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/oceans5dive","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/1500367\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/Oceans5Dive","https:\/\/x.com\/oceans5dive","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCsXNbXiAjrrf2gBErm5y6hg"]}]}},"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p7Co6k-4Kf","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":17811,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/diving\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":0},"title":"Diving Around the Gili Islands","author":"oceans5dive","date":"January 26, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"Why This Small Archipelago Is a Big Deal for Divers When people think about the Gili Islands, they often picture white sandy beaches, turquoise water, hammocks between palm trees, and spectacular sunsets. But beneath the surface, the real magic begins. With around\u00a015 different dive sites surrounding Gili Air, Gili Meno,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Turtles around the Gili Islands | Gili Conservation Dive Center | SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Hawksbill-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Hawksbill-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Hawksbill-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Hawksbill-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Hawksbill-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":18131,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/diving-gili-air-2\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":1},"title":"The Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving Around Gili Air, Indonesia","author":"oceans5dive","date":"June 25, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"The Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving Around Gili Air, Indonesia If you are searching for the best\u00a0diving Gili Air\u00a0experience, you have come to the right place. Located just off the northwest coast of Lombok, Gili Air is one of Indonesia's most beautiful tropical islands and is internationally known for its\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Diving Gili Air Indonesia | SSI Instructor Training Center Oceans 5 Gili Air","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Marine-Life-Indonesia.jpg?fit=857%2C1200&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Marine-Life-Indonesia.jpg?fit=857%2C1200&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Marine-Life-Indonesia.jpg?fit=857%2C1200&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Marine-Life-Indonesia.jpg?fit=857%2C1200&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":17315,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/fun-diving\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":2},"title":"Fun Diving Around the Gili Islands","author":"oceans5dive","date":"October 17, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Fun Diving Around the Gili Islands: More Than a Training Ground When divers talk about Indonesia, their minds often jump to places like Komodo, Raja Ampat, or Lembeh. Yet, sitting quietly between Lombok and Bali lies a diver\u2019s paradise that is as underestimated as it is spectacular\u2014the Gili Islands. Many\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air | Scuba Diving Indonesia | SSI ITC Indonesia","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Diving-Boat-Gili-Air.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Diving-Boat-Gili-Air.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Diving-Boat-Gili-Air.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Diving-Boat-Gili-Air.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Diving-Boat-Gili-Air.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":13155,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/global-fin-print-gili-islands\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":3},"title":"A Partnership with Global FinPrint and the University of Mataram","author":"oceans5dive","date":"February 8, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Two Weeks of Conservation at Oceans 5 Gili Air with Global FinPrint Oceans 5 Gili Air is once again taking the lead in marine conservation by partnering with Global FinPrint and the University of Mataram for an extensive two-week research initiative around the Gili Islands. This groundbreaking project will employ\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Gili Conservation Dive Center | FinPrint | Oceans 5 Gili Air","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Gili-Islands-BRUV.webp?fit=1200%2C1100&quality=80&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Gili-Islands-BRUV.webp?fit=1200%2C1100&quality=80&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Gili-Islands-BRUV.webp?fit=1200%2C1100&quality=80&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Gili-Islands-BRUV.webp?fit=1200%2C1100&quality=80&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Gili-Islands-BRUV.webp?fit=1200%2C1100&quality=80&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":18100,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/turtle\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":4},"title":"Can You Miss Seeing a Turtle While Diving on the Gili Islands?","author":"oceans5dive","date":"June 9, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"Turtles around the Gili Islands Imagine this: you finally arrive on the Gili Islands, book your first scuba dive, jump into the crystal-clear blue water, and start descending onto a beautiful coral reef. Within minutes, a sea turtle glides effortlessly past you. Sounds like a dream? Around the Gili Islands,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Diving around the Gili Islands | SSI ITC Dive Center Oceans 5 Gili Air","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Green-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Green-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Green-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Green-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Green-Sea-Turtle-Indonesia-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":18144,"url":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/dive-gili-air\/","url_meta":{"origin":18243,"position":5},"title":"What Can You Expect When You Dive with Oceans 5 Gili Air and Around the Gili Islands?","author":"oceans5dive","date":"July 2, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"Dive with Oceans 5 Gili Air and Around the Gili Islands The Gili Islands have earned a reputation as one of Indonesia's most enjoyable scuba diving destinations. Crystal-clear tropical waters, healthy coral reefs, frequent turtle encounters, and a relaxed island atmosphere make diving here suitable for both beginners and experienced\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Scuba Tips&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Scuba Tips","link":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/category\/scuba-tips\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Diving Around the Gili Islands: A Paradise for Beginners and Certified Divers","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Moorish-Idol.jpg?fit=1200%2C803&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Moorish-Idol.jpg?fit=1200%2C803&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Moorish-Idol.jpg?fit=1200%2C803&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Moorish-Idol.jpg?fit=1200%2C803&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Moorish-Idol.jpg?fit=1200%2C803&quality=89&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Shark-Etiquette-Code-Dive-Resort-Oceans-5-Gili-Air.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1152&quality=89&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18243","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18243"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18243\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18246,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18243\/revisions\/18246"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18244"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18243"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18243"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.oceans5dive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18243"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}