Sand Tiger Sharks Appear in Vietnam for the First Time – The Gentle Giants of the Ocean

Sand Tiger Sharks Make Their Debut in Vietnam

Lotte World Aquarium Hanoi has officially introduced three sand tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus).
This marks the first time the species has ever appeared in Vietnam.

Known as the “gentle giants” of the ocean, these sharks give visitors a rare chance to meet one of nature’s most unique predators.
Their arrival also spreads an important message about marine biodiversity and conservation.

The Journey to Bring the “Gentle Giants” to Hanoi

Sand tiger sharks look fierce with rows of sharp teeth, but they are calm and non-aggressive.
They move slowly, hunt at night, and rarely attack humans.

In the wild, they help balance marine ecosystems by keeping smaller fish populations under control.
They are usually found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, living near reefs or coastal waters.
This is the first time they have ever been seen in Vietnam.

Months of Careful Preparation

Bringing these sharks to Hanoi was a complex, first-of-its-kind mission.
The expert team at Lotte World Aquarium spent months preparing every detail.

Each shark underwent strict health checks before transport.
They traveled in special water tanks that kept temperature, salinity, and oxygen stable.
International experts monitored every step of the journey.

When the sharks arrived, they were placed in a private quarantine area.
Here, the care team observed their swimming, reactions, and eating habits to help them adapt to the new environment.

“At first, they were shy and cautious,” shared Tran Tat Dat, a marine life specialist.
“We watched every small movement to make sure they felt safe and healthy.”

A Fascinating Experience for Visitors

Since their debut, the Main Tank — home to the sand tiger sharks — has become one of the most popular spots in the aquarium.
Children especially love it.

Interactive shows like “Marine Life Talks” and “Feeding Dives” help visitors learn about the sharks’ behavior and importance to the ocean.

Ngoc Lan, a mother from Hanoi, said:

“My daughter thought sharks were scary. But when she saw them swimming slowly and peacefully, she was amazed.
After hearing the talk about how they don’t attack people, she wanted to learn more. It was both fun and educational.”

A Message of Marine Conservation

According to Mr. Lee Hae Yeol, Director of Lotte World Aquarium Hanoi, this event is not only a technical success but also a major step in marine education.

In the wild, sand tiger sharks are listed as “Critically Endangered” by the IUCN.
Their numbers are dropping due to overfishing, pollution, and low birth rates.

By bringing them to Vietnam, the aquarium hopes to inspire love and awareness for marine life.
Sharks are not monsters — they are vital creatures that help keep the ocean alive.

A New Ocean Icon in the Heart of Hanoi

The arrival of sand tiger sharks marks a new milestone for marine conservation in Vietnam.
Now, right in the heart of Hanoi, visitors can come face to face with these gentle giants of the ocean.
They are more than just an attraction — they are a symbol of hope for a cleaner, healthier planet.

images: Collected

Source: Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Magazine

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