Shark Dive Xtreme at SeaLife Sydney Aquarium (2025)

Are you looking to do something adventurous in Sydney? If so, the Shark Dive Xtreme at SeaLife Sydney Aquarium is the perfect experience.

I remember a time when I embraced every thrill-seeking activity without hesitation. My daring spirit led me to book the Shark Dive Xtreme at Manly SeaLife, a decision that changed me profoundly.

Note: The Manly Sealife is unfortunately closed and the Shark Dive Xtreme tour is now conducted at SeaLife Sydney.

As I descended into the underwater world, I was surrounded by majestic sharks gliding gracefully through the water. This unforgettable encounter sparked my adrenaline and deepened my understanding of these incredible creatures. Diving with sharks is not just about the thrill; it’s about gaining respect for their beauty and role in the ocean ecosystem.

If you’re ready to face your fears and embark on an exhilarating adventure, the Shark Dive Xtreme awaits. Dive into this unique opportunity and create lasting memories in the heart of Sydney.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About SeaLife Sydney Aquarium

SeaLife Sydney Aquarium, located in the vibrant Darling Harbour, is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Sydney. With over 700 species of aquatic life, it offers an unforgettable underwater journey through Australia’s rich marine environments.

The aquarium is designed around various themes, with each section showcasing specific marine life and habitats. It is an excellent educational resource for children, helping them learn about Australia’s unique water ecosystems. To fully appreciate all the exhibits, plan to spend about two hours exploring the aquarium.

Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, SeaLife Sydney Aquarium can get quite busy, particularly during public holidays, weekends, and school breaks. It’s wise to plan your visit accordingly to ensure you make the most of your experience.

There are countless activities to enjoy at the aquarium. You can participate in unique wildlife encounters or even plan special events in this captivating environment. One of the standout experiences available is the Shark Dive Xtreme, where thrill-seekers can dive alongside majestic sharks in a safe and controlled setting. This exhilarating adventure provides a closer look at these incredible creatures while emphasising marine conservation’s importance.

In addition to the Shark Dive Xtreme, visitors can go behind the scenes for an insider’s view of the aquarium, enjoy turtle encounters, partake in private dining experiences, or ride a glass-bottom boat. With so much to see and do, SeaLife Sydney Aquarium promises a memorable outing for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

Did you know that in Australia, you can cage dive with Great White Sharks at Port Lincoln in South Australia?

How to Get to Darling Harbour?

By Public Transportation

The easiest way to reach SeaLife Sydney Aquarium is by train. Frequent services run through the city circle, making it convenient for visitors. The closest station is Town Hall, just a short walk away—approximately one kilometre—from the aquarium.

• Up-to-date information can be found on the Transport for New South Wales (NSW) website.

Booking and Cost for Shark Dive Xtreme

Booking your visit is straightforward and can be done online. Simply visit the website, search for the attraction, choose your desired date, and proceed with the payment.

As I mentioned earlier, I participated in the Shark Dive Xtreme experience at Manly SeaLife, and I noticed that the pricing has changed since then. When I did it, the cost ranged from AUD 200 to 250. The experience at SeaLife Sydney Aquarium is currently priced at approximately AUD 269.

My Experience of Shark Dive Xtreme

The Shark Dive Xtreme experience at SeaLife Sydney Aquarium is an adventure structured into systematic steps, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for all participants.

• Step 1 – Filling in the Paperwork – The first step involved completing the necessary paperwork upon arrival. This included waivers and consent forms to ensure everyone understood the adventure ahead and the inherent risks of diving with sharks.
• Step 2: Receiving Instructions – We were given a thorough briefing on the dive. The instructors explained what to expect during the experience and shared important safety information. To enhance our understanding, we watched a DVD that provided insights into the underwater environment and what to anticipate when interacting with marine life.
• Step 3: Getting the Diving Gear—After the briefing, we were equipped with the necessary diving gear, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks. The staff assisted us in ensuring that everything fit properly, allowing us to feel comfortable and secure before entering the water.
• Step 4: Practicing Breathing Underwater – Once suited up, we headed to a practice pool where we learned to breathe underwater. This step was crucial in helping us acclimatize to the diving equipment and gain confidence in our ability to breathe and move comfortably in the water.
• Step 5: Diving with the Sharks – Finally, we went to the aquarium for the main event: diving with the sharks. The dive took place between 6 PM and 8 PM, and I arrived well ahead of time, eager with anticipation. Alongside me were three other participants who were equally excited. The entire process was seamless and safe—trust me, it felt completely secure. Two experienced instructors accompanied us throughout the dive, ensuring we felt comfortable and supported every step of the way.

Once comfortable with our breathing techniques, we entered the aquarium through a passage connecting the practice pool to the dive area. The underwater world was stunning, filled with a variety of marine life.

As we descended, I was awestruck by numerous small fish darting around. Among the more impressive inhabitants were two large stingrays, each as big as a queen-sized bed, gracefully gliding through the water. The aquarium also housed two enormous marine turtles and four impressive grey nurse sharks, each measuring around three metres long.

Grey nurse sharks are known for their distinctive sharp, pointy heads and bulky bodies. Contrary to what their appearance might suggest, these sharks are quite docile and pose no threat to humans. For those interested in seeing them in their natural habitat, they can often be spotted at locations like The Gutter in Shell Harbour or Bushrangers Bay in New South Wales (NSW).

Throughout the dive, I found the stingray to be particularly charming. Their gentle movements and curious nature added a delightful touch to the experience. The adventure was not just about the thrill; it was also a profound opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of marine life up close.

Closing Notes

I was truly overwhelmed by the experience of sharing the tank with the sharks and stingrays. The Shark Dive Xtreme was thrilling and mind-boggling, evoking emotions. Fear mingled with excitement and joy as I floated in the water, creating an exhilarating atmosphere. The sight of the graceful stingrays gliding past and the majestic grey nurse sharks swimming nearby was unforgettable.

Each moment reminded me of the beauty and wonder of marine life. I felt a profound connection to these incredible creatures and an appreciation for the underwater world. It was an adventure that pushed my limits and left me with lasting memories.

The experience satisfied my thirst for adventure and deepened my respect for these magnificent animals and their environment. This dive was not just about the thrill; it was an eye-opening journey into the ocean’s depths, leaving me eager to explore more and learn about marine conservation. The emotions I felt during the dive will stay with me long after I’ve surfaced, making it a truly transformative experience.