The Mexican Caribbean Is Coming Back to Life: More Sharks, More Hope

For decades, sharks in the Mexican Caribbean faced intense fishing pressure that drastically reduced their populations. Today, however, the news brings renewed optimism: marine life is returning, and sharks —the guardians of the ocean— are once again gliding through our waters.

Sharks are one of the clearest indicators of a healthy ocean. As apex predators, they help regulate other species and maintain balance throughout the marine food web. Their return to the Mexican Caribbean signals that conservation works —and that coastal communities can prosper while protecting wildlife.

Coordinated conservation efforts are producing measurable results: biodiversity is increasing, coral reefs are showing signs of recovery, and sustainable tourism is strengthening as a key driver of the local economy.

Recent reports from outlets such as Luces del Siglo, as well as the Shark, Ray, and Marine Megafauna Sightings Report from the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), confirm that shark populations in the region are indeed rebounding. Sightings are becoming more frequent in coastal zones and popular dive sites, a clear indication that marine ecosystems are regaining their natural balance.

This recovery is not a coincidence. It is the result of years of dedicated work by the Saving Our Sharks Foundation and its flagship project, the Isla Mujeres Shark Initiative, which has transformed both marine conservation and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

From Fishers to Protectors: The “Masters of the Sea”

Until recently, nearly 70% of shark fishing in the Mexican Caribbean came from cooperatives in Isla Mujeres. But thanks to the collaboration between local cooperatives such as Patria y Progreso and Kab Xok, together with the Saving Our Sharks Foundation, this reality has shifted dramatically.

Through the Isla Mujeres Shark Initiative, fishers voluntarily chose to abandon their primary source of income —shark fishing— to become “Masters of the Sea”, guardians and protectors of the very species they once captured.

The Foundation has supported their transition through training, equipment, and new economic opportunities, including:

• Training in shark monitoring and citizen science

• Development in ecotourism and sustainable diving

• Participation in research and environmental education initiatives

• The creation of Shark Safari, a pioneering eco-expedition in Mexico that transforms shark observation into an educational and responsible adventure

Each Shark Safari generates income that strengthens local cooperatives, supports conservation, and fosters a culture of conscious and respectful tourism.

Tangible Results for the Ocean and Its Communities

Since its creation, Saving Our Sharks has protected more than 20,000 sharks, directly supported over 32 fishing families, and established more than 106 cross-sector alliances involving government agencies, universities, and private partners.

Thanks to these efforts, the Kab Xok Cooperative in Isla Mujeres is now recognized as a leading model for transitioning from extractive fishing to conservation-based livelihoods. What was once a hotspot for shark fishing is now a thriving hub for science, sustainable tourism, and hope for the future of the Mexican Caribbean.

The project is also laying the groundwork for the first Shark and Ray Sanctuary in the Mexican Caribbean, a marine refuge spanning more than 500 hectares of mangroves and coastal lagoons that will protect critical nursery and breeding habitats.

Gratitude to Those Who Make This Change Possible

None of this progress would be possible without the commitment of the former shark fishers of the Kab Xok Cooperative and the generosity of our donors, strategic partners, and affiliated companies —our true Shark Heroes. Their continued support enables the Saving Our Sharks Foundation to fund research, strengthen local cooperatives, acquire specialized equipment, and expand environmental education and ecotourism programs.

Every contribution —large or small— becomes direct protection for sharks in the Mexican Caribbean and meaningful opportunities for coastal families.
To all who believe in this mission and stand with us in defending the ocean: thank you for driving conservation forward and helping us change lives while saving sharks.

Join the Movement — There Are Many Ways to Get Involved

Adopt a Shark: CLICK HERE to symbolically adopt a shark and directly support our research and conservation work.

Shark Safari: CLICK HERE to join an eco-friendly shark expedition guided by the Masters of the Sea.

Partner With Us: Explore sponsorships, donations, or collaborative projects that help expand marine conservation. Contact us at [email protected]

Support Our Mission: CLICK HERE to make a one-time or recurring donation.

Wear the Cause: CLICK HERE to visit our online store and shop for cause-based merchandise. If you’re in Mexico, you can place an order by contacting [email protected]