World’s First Shark Sanctuary

Shark Haven Act 2009

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific, Palau stands as a global trailblazer, a testament to the remarkable impact of visionary conservation. The Palau Shark Haven Act is a beacon of hope, a commitment to safeguarding our oceans that is reinforced by staggering figures and tangible results.

A Pioneering Step

Palau is one of the few places in the world where you can still encounter a large population of sharks on almost every dive. Of the more than 350 different species of sharks all over the world, almost all tropical species of sharks are found in Palau. The species most often seen in Palau are gray reef sharks, blacktips, and whitetips. The shark story of Palau is proof that individuals and organizations can and do make a difference.

On September 25, 2009, Palau declared its entire exclusive economic zone a sanctuary for sharks. This bold, pioneering step has since set forth a profound shift in the global effort to protect marine biodiversity, starting a tsunami of conservation that has since grown to 17 sanctuaries, from Samoa to Sint Maarten, particularly in the Maldives, Honduras, Bahamas, and Tokelau.

Unveiling the Grim Reality of a Dark Trade

In the very year Palau took a momentous stand to shield its waters and declare itself a sanctuary for sharks, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued an alarming report: fishermen were relentlessly extracting "up to 73 million" or even "some 100 million" sharks from the world's vast oceans annually. FAO's estimate that over half of shark species were being subjected to rampant overfishing or were gravely depleted. On a global scale, a staggering 21% of shark species had their extinction risk raised to the "threatened" category, with 18% teetering perilously close to that line, under "near threatened." 

The demand for shark fins is driven by an illicit hunting trade. Many regions still permit the hunting of sharks for their fins, intended for food and other uses. Sharks also become unwitting victims as bycatch, ensnared while fishing for marlin, tuna, and a multitude of other marine life.

Hope for the Future

With an area spanning 629,000 square kilometers, equivalent to the size of France, this sanctuary covers a vast expanse of vital ocean territory. The impact of this monumental decision has been remarkable: shark and ray fishing, once a commercial endeavor, has been unequivocally banned in Palau's waters, with stringent regulations ensuring no sharks are captured onboard, underscoring the intrinsic value of these oceanic sentinels.

Economic and Ecological Gains

In this pristine haven, the economic benefits of safeguarding sharks are unequivocal. The shark diving industry in Palau contributes an impressive $1.2 million in salaries to local communities, providing sustainable livelihoods that resonate with the spirit of responsible travel. The Palauan government also reaps the rewards, generating a crucial $1.5 million in taxes annually, directly driven by their commitment to ocean conservation.

Shifting Tides in Global Economy

These figures are not isolated; they are part of a global movement towards ecotourism, an industry that generates a staggering $800 billion annually. In contrast, shark fins, once a symbol of economic prosperity, now contribute a mere $2 billion to the Asian economy annually, a figure in steady decline due to the scarcity of available sharks.

Your Role in Conservation

As you embark on your journey to Palau, consider the impact of your presence. By choosing to explore this oceanic haven, you are contributing to a legacy of protection, nurturing marine life, and championing a cause that extends far beyond the horizon. Palau's Shark Haven Act is a testament to the boundless possibilities of harmonious coexistence between humanity and the natural world. 

Join us in Palau, where your voyage carries the weight of these incredible figures, reminding us all that through responsible travel, we can make a profound impact.