Frequently asked questions
What is a Shark-Free Marina?
A Shark-Free Marina is a marina which does not allow caught sharks to be brought into their facility for display or slaughter. For more information please read our 'Terms of Association'.
How does becoming a Shark-Free Marina benefit my business?
Marinas join this initiative for a variety of reasons, namely positive media exposure, and the green effect. In today's marketplace the public perception of green businesses is shifting. Those company's that do business green are seeing higher traffic and dedicated consumers. Adding a Shark Free Marina sign to your site informs the public you care about the environment and sustainable fisheries. Think of it as a public green badge supported by our growing list of fishing industry members and NGO's.
Does is cost anything to become a Shark-Free Marina?
No. The SFMI does not charge to register a marina or for the marinas listing on this website. Support materials are made available free of charge courtesy of the Humane Society of the United States of America.
How can I donate to the Shark-Free Marina Initiative?
The SFMI is partnered with non-profit organizations to enable tax deductible donations. Please contact us at
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with your donation request.
You say you support 'catch and release', isn't this animal cruelty?
Shark-Free Marinas is empathetic towards animal rights but we are not an 'activist group'. We respect an anglers right to hunt for sport and food but do not accept irresponsible slaughter of sharks. A shark certainly undergoes trauma when caught but when released by skilled fishermen they recover quite quickly. When shark fishing is combined with research we also have unique opportunities to collect samples and implant data collecting tags to better monitor the populations health and movements.
Can I advertise on the Shark-Free Marina website?
Yes. Please contact us at
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with your request.
How can I join or help Shark-Free Marinas?
Members of the community are encouraged to approach their local marina and ask them to register as a Shark-Free Marina, and of course we always welcome any positive publicity and links. When using the Shark-Free Marina logo or name please adhere to our Terms of Use. Shark-Free Marinas does not sponsor protests or rallies.