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About the challenge
Dive right in for this fin-tastic once in a life-time experience!
Have you ever dreamed of coming face to fin with a predator? Well Caudwell Children can make it happen. Learn basic scuba diving techniques from a highly qualified and experienced team, and submerge yourself into a 3.8million litre Caribbean Reef tank. You will be surrounded by 10ft sharks including Sand Tiger and Nurse sharks, along with an array of tropical fish for this cage free diving experience, not only that but you will be helping to change the lives of autistic and disabled children forever, and nothing can be better than that.
Have questions or a different challenge in mind? Check our FAQs below or contact the Challenges Team on 01782 433 750 or email challenges@caudwellchildren.com
What you need to know
The shark diving experience will take place at Blue Planet Aquarium based in Cheshire and all participants will have full use of their scuba equipment on the day. Each participant will be entitled to free entry for two spectators. To secure your shark encounter, you will need to pay a £50 deposit, with a minimum sponsorship target of £395.
T&Cs – restrictions
*Shark Dives are subject to medical restrictions and you will be required to complete a medical statement and questionnaire.
How we will support you
Our Challenges team is here to support you every step of the way through phone, email, WhatsApp, and virtual meetings. Whether you’re preparing for your event, fundraising, or have questions, we’re always available to ensure you feel supported and confident.
You have access to to our fundraising resources and our tips for fundraising success with hints and tips for organising fundraising, PR and posting your journey on social media.
Shark Diving FAQ's
There is a £50 deposit and a £395 fundraising target.
Our dedicated Events Team will support you to achieve your fundraising target. If the fundraising target is not met, we may need to postpone your dive.
We are able to offer Shark Dive experiences at locations across the UK. Please note that restrictions may differ for different providers. To find out more about Shark Dives local to you, please get in touch with our challenges team.
Dives are often run on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2pm or 4pm, although this remains subject to change and availability.
Junior divers must be aged 8 to 15, and a minimum height of 125cm (4ft2″).
Experience a thrilling PADI-recognized Shark Encounter, where you’ll master basic diving skills under expert guidance while mingling with 10-foot Sand Tiger Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Blacktip Sharks, Bamboo Sharks, Stingrays, Guitar Fish, and other aquatic wonders. The Shark Encounters provide comprehensive training, cage-free diving, complete scuba equipment, and the pride of earning an “I Dived with the Sharks at Blue Planet Aquarium” certificate.
No, you will able to swim with the sharks, if you’re brave enough!
Yes. For junior divers, there is free entry for an accompanying adult.
No, you will be provided with a full brief prior to your shark dive.
You will be required to complete a medical form. If the diver answers “yes” to any of the questions on the form please contact us, as the diver will require an additional form to be signed by their GP prior to commencing the dive.
This would depend upon the availability of dives at Blue Planet Aquarium on your chosen date and time.
You will be asked to complete a medical form and preferred dates for your dive. Once all criteria are met, then you will be asked to pay a £50 deposit.
Taking on challenges, changing lives
“The fundraising team at Caudwell Children were amazing, from their first email to my post event thank you card, I was totally supported by the team.”
Diane Swann
Why support Caudwell Children?
By taking on a challenge for Caudwell Children, you’ll not only be achieving something incredible for yourself but also helping raise vital funds to support disabled and autistic children. Your efforts ensure we can continue providing life-changing services that empower these children to reach their full potential. Every step you take makes a real difference, giving them the opportunity for a brighter, more independent future.
What impact could you make?
- Every £1 you donate helps us deliver at least £2 worth of practical and emotional support to children and families in need, ensuring your contribution goes twice as far.
- In 2023, Caudwell Children provided 17,181 donations and services to families across 2,512 UK postcodes.
- Your support allows us to provide critical resources like specialist equipment, therapy, and family support, transforming lives and offering children a brighter future.
We're here to help!
Not found what you’re looking for? Discover more about our challenge events. If you need help or have a different challenge in mind, reach out to us! Call 01782 433 750 or email challenges@caudwellchildren.com
Fundraising Resources
