Shark-Watching Tours Boost Conservation Action

A University of Sydney study links shark-watching ecotourism to more conservation behavior two years later.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Environmental

Clear turquoise Pacific water over a dark volcanic reef, with a single shark silhouette gliding through sunlit blue water. — A University of Sydney study found participants in an Oʻahu shark-watching tour were 40% more likely to adopt conservation behaviors two years later. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Participants in a shark-watching experience on Oʻahu, Hawaii, were 40% more likely to adopt conservation behaviors two years later than a comparison group recruited at Waikīkī Beach. The study was published in npj Ocean Sustainability.

Why it matters

Global shark populations have declined 71% in the last 50 years, and one third of species are threatened with extinction. The findings suggest that ecotourism could be a tool for building public support for ocean protection in Hawaii and beyond.

The study compared shark-watching participants with a Waikīkī Beach comparison group through surveys at baseline and two years later, finding a 40% higher likelihood of conservation behaviors. It remains unclear how long the gains last past the two-year window.

The players

University of Sydney

The Australian university whose researchers conducted the study on shark-watching ecotourism and conservation behavior.

The details

Shark-watching participants snorkeled or freedived accompanied by a marine biologist on Oʻahu. Researchers accounted for demographic characteristics, prior conservation involvement, and dropouts during follow-up.

Two years after the ecotourism experience, participants completed a follow-up survey measuring conservation behaviors.
Over the last 50 years, global shark populations declined by 71%.

Seasonal Patterns

Shark and ray ecotourism now draws more than 500 thousand people per year across at least 20 countries, a growing counterpoint to the 71% global shark population decline recorded over the last 50 years. This study adds evidence that such tourism may shift visitor behavior toward conservation.

Hawaii residents and visitors who enjoy the ocean can consider shark-watching or similar marine experiences led by qualified biologists. The study suggests such activities may encourage lasting conservation habits.

The takeaway

Hands-on encounters with marine life may do more to build lasting conservation habits than information alone. For Hawaii, where ocean tourism is central, this offers a practical path to supporting shark protection.