ANIMALHYPE: Plexiglass Shark Cage

This seems to be about the state-of-the-art in shark cage dives offered to tourists - from a company called Hawaii Shark Encounters (check out the Shark Cage) --
Sure enough, only a plexiglass window, completely transparent, stands between the adventurous tourist and these evil beasts (or "wonders of nature", depending on your political party).

From HSE's "Questions" page:

Can the cage sink?
No! Floats surround the cage on all sides and they keep it level in the water. The top of the cage is actually 2 feet above the surface. The cage is also tied to the boat with several lines.

Is the cage closed at the top?
There is no lid on the cage. You are not locked in and you can come up and enjoy the view from the surface and communicate with the crew at any time.

Can the sharks jump in?
No! The sides of the cage extend 2 feet above the surface of the water. The sharks would have to jump three feet clear out of the water with a forward trajectory and aim they simply don't have. They will occasionally lift their heads out of the water, but these sharks are not capable of leaving the water. Even if they wanted to. (and they really don't).

How do I get in the cage? Do I have to swim to it?
Of course not! You would have to pay us a lot extra to be allowed to swim even one moment outside the cage, with the sharks. The cage gets pulled right next to the boat and you step down a very solid ladder directly inside the cage.

How secure will I be inside the cage?
There are handrails to hold on to all around the cage. You can stabilize yourself while you float on the surface or you can pull yourself a little lower for a different view. None of your body parts will ever have to extend outside the bars.

Will the sharks attack the cage?
No! The sharks will come very close to the cage to investigate but they do not charge at the cage or try to bite the people inside. Human beings are not on the natural menu of these sharks, as is the case with most sharks.

Do I get an unobstructed view of the sharks?
Yes! There are two large (and very strong) pieces of Plexiglas installed on each short side of the cage. In the water they are almost invisible.

























Hawaii Shark Encounters
Rates: US Dollars
Adult: $ 105.00
Children (under 12) 70.00
Kama'aina and Military (Adult): 90.00
Kama'aina and Military (Child): 65.00




Sam Jackson and the Shark (from "Deep Blue Sea")