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Blue Sharks

Blue Sharks are seen around Cornwall's coastline during warmer months but migrate to warmer seas during winter and usually are seen 10+ miles offshore
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About Blue Sharks

Scientific Name: Prionace glauca

Blue sharks are a species of shark that can be found in the waters around Cornwall, England. These slender, elegant sharks are named for their distinctive, blue colouration, which helps them blend in with the deep, open ocean. Blue sharks are found in many parts of the world and are known to migrate long distances in search of food and suitable breeding grounds.

It is not uncommon for these sharks to be found inshore, although they tend to favour deeper, offshore waters. The exact distribution of blue sharks in the waters off Cornwall will depend on a variety of factors, including the time of year, water temperature, and the availability of food. They are also known to be curious and sometimes approach divers and boats, although they are generally not aggressive towards humans.

 

How to identify this species:

  • Up to 3.8 metres in length
  • Long, slender body with a pointed snout, large eyes and distinctive long pectoral fins
  • Striking shimmery blue colour across the top of its body, with a white underside

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Blue shark close up

20 years

Average Lifespan

Fish & Squid

Diet

120,000

Population

Did you know?

The age of a blue shark can be determined by counting the rings on the shark’s vertebrae, which grow as the shark ages.

Blue shark swimming

How often do you see Blue Shark on a boat trip?

​Book a boat trip and you might get lucky to see one of these fantastic creatures in our Cornish waters. Sharks are not a common sighting on our trips as they do not need to surface to breathe like whales and dolphins do, and tend to stick to deeper waters, but every trip is different and you never know what you might see. Experience our boat trips and keep your eyes open and you might just get lucky.

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Blue waves
Blue waves

FAQs about Blue Sharks

What is a blue shark?

A blue shark is a species of shark named for their distinctive, blue coloration, and are known for their slender, elegant bodies and long, thin tails.

Where are blue sharks found?

The blue shark is one of the most wide ranging sharks, occurring in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans in both inshore and offshore waters, including Cornish waters a few miles out.

What do blue sharks eat?

The diet of this shark includes many types of fish and squid, and may sometimes even eat seabirds.

How long do blue sharks live?

The average lifespan of a blue shark is about 20 years, although some individuals have been known to live for up to 30 years.

How do blue sharks reproduce?

Blue sharks have a unique reproductive strategy, with females producing live young that are nourished by a placental-like structure. They have an average of 35 pups at a time!

Are blue sharks endangered?

The conservation status of blue sharks varies depending on the region, but some populations are considered to be vulnerable or endangered due to overfishing and other threats.

How fast are blue sharks?

Blue sharks are known to be fast swimmers, and are capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph).

More of cornwall's amazing sealife...

Padstow Sealife Safaris give you the chance to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. Depending on the time of year that you choose to visit, you’ll have the chance to see a number of different species.

Grey seal laying on the rocks

Seals

One of Cornwall’s most beloved and regularly sighted residents. The UK is home to around 40% of the world’s entire population of this globally rare seal!
Learn about Seals

Dolphins

Become a dolphin expert learning everything from diet to their links with aliens! Learn all about our favourite marine friend.
Learn about Dolphins
dolphin dorsal fin in the water

Harbour Porpoise

This loveable creature is rather shy. But the crew of the sealife safari vessels have clocked up considerable experience in knowing how to get the best views.
Learn about Harbour Porpoise

Seabirds

We are lucky to have a rich variety of habitats on our doorstep, attracting many different species of birds, both as residents and migrants passing through.
Learn about Seabirds

Jellyfish

Jellyfish can be found all over our UK coastlines as well as in all of the global oceans, but how much do you actually know about the magnificent jellyfish?
Learn about Jellyfish
Blue shark close up

Sharks

Sharks might have a fearsome reputation, but most rarely attack humans. They are a vital part of our ecosystem and we often spot sharks in Cornwall! 
Learn about Sharks

Whales

Think you need to travel much further afield to see whales? Think again! We are seeing an increasing number of whales in Cornwall and the UK, and your best chance for whale sightings is via our coastal boat trips.
Learn about Whales
Sunfish in cornwall

Fish

Become a fish expert learning everything from what they feed on to their behaviour! Learn all about fish that surround our beautiful coastline in Cornwall
Learn about Fish

start your ocean adventure today.

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Tel: +44 (0) 77 54 82 24 04

Find us: Padstow Harbour, Cornwall, PL28 8AF

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