FAQs

If you can’t find an answer to your question please email us. Please do be aware that we are often at sea without signal! We’ll do our best to get back to you as soon as we can.

 

Will I get a refund if weather conditions cancel my trip?

Absolutely! We give the option of a full refund or you can transfer the date of your trip to a later date of your convenience (and our availability - this can roll into the next year if you want). This will be done with voucher which you then use to book your preferred date.

Is swimming with sharks dangerous?

The risks associated with swimming with blue and porbeagle sharks (our most common swim-with species) are very small. That said, we are swimming with wild animals that have sharp teeth and no other means to investigate something (they don’t have hands) so there is always a small risk attached with spending time in their company, just as with any other wild animal. Our briefings, guidelines and having experienced in-water guides reduce this risk further still.

Do I need my own equipment?

Preferably; Yes. A minimum of a 5-7mm wetsuit, mask, fins, hood, gloves and socks to wear with fins. You will also need a weight belt with approx 4kg of weight.

We stock a small quantity of rental equipment which is available on a first-come-first-serve basis. In order to request rental equipment please fill out this form.

Looking to invest in some gear? See our equipment recommendations in the footer for a buying guide.

What equipment should I bring?

We are in open water and UK weather! Average sea temperatures are from 11 degrees in July to a maximum of 15/16 degrees in September/October. Therefore a minimum of a 5mm wetsuit is required (7mm is sensible). A full length wetsuit, gloves, hood, fins, mask and snorkel are needed. Preferably these should be black or dark coloured as the sharks are very attracted to bright colours. We would recommend a 2 piece freediving suit as they are warmer due to the open cell lining and the inbuilt hood. Please also bring a warm coat or dry robe to get warm after being in the water and protect you from wind chill. A change of clothes, factor 50 sunscrean, sunglasses, a hat, food and plenty of water for the day.

Please also bring a facemask or a buff to comply with social distancing and covid spread counter measures.

Can I come on a trip while pregnant?

No. We cannot accept liability for you and your babys health while on a trip with us. The potential for harm while getting on board a boat in the open water would be too great. While we fully encourage staying active through pregnancy, it would have to be in your own time and in your own environment.

What is the best time of year to see blue sharks?

We Start venturing out to the Celtic deep for Sharks from mid July. Based on previous years we have had a good hit rate from the beginning of the season all the way through. Towards the end of August and September we also start to see blue fin tuna and Whales on a regular basis.

What is the minimum age to come on a trip?

Due to the days being long at sea and the fact we are in open water we limit the minimum age at 16 years of age (with an accompanying adult)

Can I book a private charter?

Yes you can. We can arrange for trips outside our set dates for groups wanting to hire the boats for their own trips. you can chose the locations and the duration of your trip. To discuss private charter email us at info@celticdeep.org.

Where can I find accommodation?

Please see our extensive local accommodation guide in the footer. Please note: accommodation books up very fast for the summer months, so book well in advance of your trip.

Can you recommend some places to eat?

Yes, please see our local eats section in the footer menu for a list of local suggestions for all dietary needs.

Please be aware that Pembrokeshire gets very busy in tourist season so you will always need to book in advance. This goes for eating and accommodation.

Will I have to answer a standard diving medical form before participating?

Yes. We send out a standard waiver form for you to read through and return with your booking. If you have any yes answers you need to seek permission from your GP to participate.

How many people are on each trip?

We have a maximum of 8 people (Skomer & Skokholm - Puffin & Seal trips) or 10 people (Celtic Deep) to a group with 2 guides and the skipper.

How many people in the water at any one time?

Maximum 4 people with one guide. We rotate the groups in and out of the water. On the initial encounters with the sharks we keep the time in the water to around 10 mins each group this is so everyone gets a chance to see and we keep the impact as low as possible to the sharks. once we see that they are sticking around with us we then extend the timings in and out of the water. Most people get cold after a few times in the water so the time in water extends for those that are still up for it. We stay out at sea for around 4-6 hours before heading back into shore. Plenty of time to see lots of wildlife for everyone!

Can we book as a group?

Yes - Absolutely. Get together, find a date that suits you all and then book using our booking system. Press any of our book now buttons to be linked to the booking system and calendar. Please be aware that each individual will be asked to inform us of their swimming/snorkelling comfort levels when booking.

Do I have to be able to swim, can I stay on the boat?

Yes you do need to be a competent swimmer. You will be in open water 35 miles off shore. We ask you to fill out a questionnaire at booking to gauge your level. However there is no pressure to be in the water. you can spend the day on the boat and still see all the action.