Rising White Shark Presence Boosts Cape Cod Tourism

Great white sharks are increasingly spotted in the waters around Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This popular seaside destination, known for its beaches, towns, and lighthouses, is attracting tourists eager to see these marine predators.

Tourism Growth Despite Shark Presence

Cape Cod’s economic landscape is shifting. The region’s tourism economy grew from nearly $2 billion in 2019 to almost $2.8 billion, as reported by the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce. This occurs even with a reduction in visits to Cape Cod National Seashore, where sharks are most frequently detected.

Beaches now feature shark warning signs and “Stop the Bleed” rescue kits. The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy launched Sharktivity, an app that provides real-time alerts and safety information about shark sightings near public beaches.

Shark Populations and Their Impact

The spike in great white shark presence is linked to the recovery of the gray seal population, post the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act. The seal numbers surged from 2,000 in 1994 to 30,000-50,000 by 2017. A study from 2023 estimated about 800 great whites visited waters off Cape Cod from 2015 to 2018.

Despite their growing numbers, there is no evidence these sharks have become more aggressive or altered their hunting habits. They continue targeting seals in shallow coastal waters, a behavior seen since they began returning to the area during summer and fall.

White Shark Ecotourism

Cape Cod has emerged as a leading white shark ecotourism site. Tourists can hire a private charter through the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy for $2,500 or join open-boat charters for $500 per person. These 2½-hour trips use spotter pilots to identify sharks. Participants can log sightings, detect tagged sharks with a hydrophone, and contribute observations to research.

The trip fees partially fund white shark research, making them partially tax-deductible. This unique experience allows visitors to see sharks just beyond the coast.

Shark Interaction and Safety Concerns

While the presence of sharks fuels tourism, there are safety concerns. In 2018, a boogie boarder was fatally attacked, marking the first such event since 1936. Beach safety measures include purple shark flags alerting visitors to shark sightings, with the National Park Service advising people to stay away from seals, fish schools, and swim with caution.

Visitor Attitudes

Many visitors, like Lisa DonDiego, appreciate the ocean’s allure despite understanding potential shark risks. The National Park Service continues to warn about shark activity extending into the fall, even as lifeguard presence decreases.