The ocean floor is a bustling ecosystem teeming with life, particularly around shipwrecks. Just off the coast of North Carolina, there are approximately 2,000 shipwrecks that have become thriving reefs over time. Divers flock to these sites for the incredible views of marine life they offer. Sand tiger sharks, known for their docile nature, are commonly found around shipwrecks, along with larger predators like the great white shark.
Sand tiger sharks, also known as grey nurse sharks, roam coastal areas and shipwrecks in search of food. Despite their intimidating appearance with narrow, tooth-filled mouths, they are not usually aggressive towards humans. These sharks can grow up to 10.5 feet in length and have a unique reproductive behavior where the largest embryo in the uterus consumes its smaller siblings before birth. However, post-birth, they do not exhibit cannibalistic tendencies.
Shipwrecks serve as crucial habitats for underwater wildlife, attracting various species including sharks. Fish seek shelter, plants flourish, and larger creatures prey on the abundant food sources around these structures. Female sand tiger sharks are known to return to specific shipwrecks annually, possibly as a migratory stop, feeding ground, mating site, or birthing location.
One such shipwreck off the North Carolina coast is the SS Papoose, a steamer tanker sunk by a German submarine during World War II. Divers exploring the Papoose often encounter female sand tiger sharks, making it a popular spot for shark enthusiasts. In a remarkable video from Instigator Fishing & Diving, a diver is surrounded by sand tiger sharks near the Papoose when a massive great white shark suddenly appears, stunning the diver with its imposing size.
Great white sharks, like sand tiger sharks, are known to frequent shipwrecks, drawn to the rich ecosystem these sites provide. The video captures the awe-inspiring moment when a great white shark emerges near the Papoose wreck, showcasing the diverse marine life that thrives among these sunken relics.
Researchers from the non-profit organization Ocearch tag and monitor sharks to gain insights into their behavior. They have been tracking great white sharks off the coast of North Carolina, particularly in the vicinity of numerous shipwrecks. In March 2025, Ocearch researchers tagged a 9.5-foot-long, 460-pound shark named Danny, spotted swimming near the Outer Banks. Another larger great white shark, measuring 13 feet and weighing 1,700 pounds, named Mahone, was observed swimming in the Oregon Inlet of the Outer Banks.
Studies have revealed that great white sharks migrate south to Florida during the winter, then return north along the coast to areas around New England and Canada for the summer. While great white sharks are known to pose a greater risk to humans compared to sand tiger sharks, the actual danger to a diver encountering a great white in the wild depends on various factors. The key is to avoid provoking the sharks and to maintain a safe distance without disrupting their natural behavior.
Although great white sharks have a reputation for attacking humans, they typically do so when they feel threatened, provoked, or mistaken the human for prey. If you encounter a great white shark, it is recommended to stay calm, stand your ground, and not make sudden movements that could trigger a predatory response. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid swimming in dark or murky waters where visibility is poor, as great whites rely on their vision for hunting and may confuse humans with other prey.
To watch the video showcasing a diver’s reaction to a sudden appearance of a great white shark underwater, click the link provided.
