A holidaymaker was left stunned after spotting two sharks lurking just metres from the shore at a popular British beach. The jaw-dropping footage, captured on camera, shows the predators gliding through the shallow waters, their dark fins slicing the surface.
"I couldn’t believe my eyes," said the shaken tourist, who wished to remain anonymous. "At first, I thought they were dolphins—then I saw the unmistakable shape of their tails and realised what they were."
Are These Sharks a Threat?
Marine experts have since identified the creatures as basking sharks, the second-largest living fish in the world. Despite their enormous size—they can grow up to 12 metres long—these gentle giants feed solely on plankton and pose no danger to humans.
"Basking sharks are common in UK waters during the summer months," explained Dr. Sarah Collins, a marine biologist. "While their appearance can be alarming, they’re completely harmless. In fact, they’re more at risk from boats and human activity than we are from them."
What Should You Do If You Spot a Shark?
Though encounters like this are rare, beachgoers are advised to:
- Stay calm – Avoid sudden movements or splashing.
- Keep your distance – Never attempt to touch or feed the animal.
- Report the sighting – Notify local lifeguards or wildlife organisations.
This incident serves as a reminder of the incredible marine life thriving along the UK coastline. While the sight of sharks may send shivers down your spine, experts reassure that these majestic creatures are simply passing visitors—not predators on the hunt.
