Isla Mujeres Shark Initiative – 2025 Results

For over a decade, Saving Our Sharks Foundation has led the way in shark conservation and marine research across the Mexican Caribbean. With steadfast support from government agencies, local communities, and the private sector in Quintana Roo and throughout Mexico, our non-profit organization continues leadering the protection of these vital apex predators.

In 2021, the Foundation, launched one of their most transformative efforts to date: the Isla Mujeres Shark Initiative. This groundbreaking project supports local fishing cooperatives on Isla Mujeres, helping traditional shark fishermen transition away from fishing and into sustainable livelihoods such as ecotourism, citizen science, and marine monitoring.

These marines — “masters of the sea”— have taken on a new role: protectors of the species they once fished. By voluntarily retiring 80% of their shark fishing gear, they have become champions of ocean health, contributing to the recovery of shark populations that are essential to the balance of marine ecosystems.

Why is this important? Sharks play a critical biological role. They maintain the health of fish populations by preying on the weakest and most ill individuals, ensuring the resilience and biodiversity of marine life. Their presence is a sign of a thriving ocean—and their absence can spell disaster for entire ecosystems.

2025 Results: Results That Matter

• Two years and eight months without shark fishing in Isla Mujeres, a historic achievement after three generations of shark-dependent livelihoods.

• Thousands of sharks saved, giving key species time and space to recover.

• A vibrant return of marine life: Increased sightings of sharks, have been reported across ecotourism hubs like Cancún, Cozumel, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

• Eight years of active shark monitoring in collaboration with local communities.

• A fishing community transformed—fishermen have been trained in diving, wildlife monitoring, and marine tour operations, becoming skilled ocean stewards and educators.

• A growing conservation network: Our search for shark nursery habitats has led to the protection of these critical areas, supported by national alliances and partnerships.

• Strong government collaboration has helped scale and sustain these efforts.

• A fully equipped vessel, led by the Kab Xok Cooperative, now operates for ecological monitoring and environmental education tours across the region.

Global Reach, Local Impact

Sharks don’t recognize borders—and neither does our work. Several of the species we help protect migrate between Mexico, the United States, and South America, making the impact of this initiative both regional and international.

The ripple effects are clear: healthy shark populations lead to healthier oceans, which in turn support tourism, fisheries, and coastal economies. This is not just a conservation story—it’s a community success story, and one we’re proud to share with the world.

Join the Movement

You don’t have to be on a boat to make a difference. If you’re diving, snorkeling, or boating in the Mexican Caribbean, you can help by reporting your shark sightings. Each report adds to our growing database, supporting scientific research and the ongoing efforts of our ocean guardians.

Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the “masters of the sea” continues—not as hunters, but as protectors of life beneath the waves.

Help us protect sharks. Report your shark sightings HERE and become part of the solution.