Are shark sightings guaranteed?

No. Sharks are wild animals; the crew uses bait and local knowledge to increase chances, but sightings cannot be promised.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

No. The operator does not carry or rent snorkeling gear; Force E dive shop (155 East Blue Heron Blvd, Riviera Beach, FL 33404) can rent equipment nearby.

Is there an age limit?

The trip listing does not specify ages; participants must be proficient snorkelers and meet operator requirements—confirm with the operator when booking.

What is the dress code?

All participants must wear dark or black wetsuits, dive skins, hoods, gloves, socks/booties, and dark fins; white or yellow fins are not allowed.

How many people are needed to run the trip?

A minimum of four snorkelers is required in order for the trip to operate.

Jupiter Shark Snorkel: Two-Dive Encounters Aboard the MV Shear Water

Q: Where is the trip departure point?

Boarding is at the MV Shear Water on the north dock at New Port Cove Safe Harbor Marina, 255 East 22nd Ct., Riviera Beach, Florida. Boarding begins at 6:30 AM.

On the water off Jupiter, Florida, the MV Shear Water runs two-dive shark snorkeling expeditions that put you eye‑to‑eye with some of the Atlantic’s most formidable predators. Departure and meeting take place at the MV Shear Water, located at the end of the north dock at New Port Cove Safe Harbor Marina (255 East 22nd Ct., Riviera Beach, Florida), where boarding begins at 6:30 AM and the boat leaves at 7:30 AM. The 72‑foot vessel is set up for drift snorkeling, short transit times, and a crew that keeps safety and access front and center.

Trips regularly encounter Tiger, Great Hammerhead, Lemon, Sandbar, Silky, Caribbean Reef, and Nurse sharks. To attract animals we deploy bait in a controlled way; you’ll get a thorough safety briefing and at least one crew member remains in the water during every dive to monitor shark behavior. This is not a placid pool — it’s open Atlantic sea snorkeling — so the operator requires proficient snorkeling skills and follows strict clothing rules: dark or black wetsuits, hoods, gloves, socks or booties, and dark fins only. White or yellow fins are prohibited. The company does not rent gear; Force E dive shop (155 East Blue Heron Blvd, Riviera Beach, FL 33404) is a local resource for last‑minute equipment.

What makes this trip stand out is its combination of a purpose‑built, experienced crew aboard a solid expedition vessel and access to Jupiter’s productive shark grounds. The short runs to deep sand channels and reef edges mean more time in the water and more chances at close, photographic encounters without cages. The trip includes two shark dives, snacks, and non‑alcoholic beverages; note a minimum of four snorkelers is required to run the voyage and sightings, as wild animals do not follow a schedule, can never be guaranteed.

If you arrive early, the marina’s light and unobstructed eastern horizon create remarkable pre‑dawn vistas; if conditions are right the sea can be glassy or roll with steady drift currents. Operator contact listed in the trip description is Jim Abernethy (+1-561-718-6355) for booking questions. This excursion gives adventurous swimmers a rare chance to experience apex predators on their terms, in one of Florida’s most active shark hubs, while relying on protocol-driven safety and local expertise. Whether you come for the adrenaline or the marine-study value, expect an organized, no‑frills outing that prioritizes real time in open water with sharks.

Plan on three to six hours for the full excursion including transit and surface intervals. Bring sun protection, seasickness remedies, and a camera with a waterproof housing if you want publishable shots. Respect crew instructions at all times; their protocols maximize safety while giving you the best possible opportunity for responsible, close-up observation.

About Jim Abernethy's Shear Water Expeditions

Jim Abernethy's Shear Water Expeditions is a coastal expedition operator based in Riviera Beach, Florida. The company offers guided ocean trips focused on marine wildlife observation and offshore exploration. Trips listed include OnTrip and the 7 day Baja Ocean Safari, a liveaboard-style voyage that sails in the Sea of Cortez from La Ventana, Baja Mexico. The Baja itinerary features daily at-sea searching for diverse cetaceans, meals served on board, and shared evenings with fellow adventurers preparing for the next day of exploration.

The operation emphasizes small-group experiences and hands-on time at sea to maximize wildlife encounters and onboard camaraderie. Vessels and itineraries concentrate on long days at sea for species viewing and coastal exploration. Trip descriptions note onboard meals and nightly gatherings that support communal trip planning and storytelling.

Booking information, dates, pricing, and detailed vessel specifications are provided directly by the operator and should be confirmed before travel. Travelers interested in the Baja Ocean Safari can expect extended days on the water centered on marine life observation near La Ventana and the Sea of Cortez.

Contact details and trip availability are maintained by Jim Abernethy's Shear Water Expeditions. Prospective guests are encouraged to consult the operator for current schedules, specific departure information, health and safety requirements, and pre-trip preparations relevant to offshore expeditions. Safety briefings, gear recommendations, and local logistics are coordinated by the operator; participants should verify required documentation, insurance, and any travel advisories before booking to ensure compliance with international and regional regulations and vessel readiness updates.

Jupiter Shark Snorkel: Two-Dive Encounters Aboard the MV Shear Water

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