The ocean’s most misunderstood predator is ready to take centre stage once again.
This July, National Geographic Wild welcomes back SharkFest for its 14th annual edition, promising another month of extraordinary encounters, fascinating scientific discoveries and breathtaking underwater adventures.
Returning every Sunday throughout July, SharkFest 2026 combines spectacular wildlife cinematography with expert-led storytelling to explore the behaviour, power and conservation of some of the world’s most remarkable shark species.
The shark-filled celebration begins on Sunday, 5 July, with an exciting new special that takes viewers face-to-face with one of the ocean’s most iconic predators.
Bertie Gregory goes in search of the legendary hammerhead
Opening this year’s SharkFest is Hammerhead Sharks Up Close with Bertie Gregory, premiering on Sunday, 5 July at 18:00 on National Geographic Wild.
The special follows Emmy® and BAFTA-winning cinematographer and National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory as he travels to the Pacific waters of Mexico in search of the unmistakable hammerhead shark.
Once abundant in these waters, hammerhead populations have declined dramatically, making sightings increasingly rare.
Working alongside leading shark scientists and local experts, Gregory investigates the reasons behind the species’ decline while exploring how protected marine environments are creating new hope for its future.
His expedition culminates in a rare encounter that highlights both the beauty of the hammerhead and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.
A month dedicated to the world’s most fascinating predators
The excitement continues throughout July with a diverse lineup of documentaries exploring sharks from different perspectives.
Whether examining remarkable marine biology, investigating real-life shark encounters or searching for some of the ocean’s largest predators, each programme offers fresh insight into these extraordinary animals.
Sunday, 5 July | 18:45
Shark Attack Files
Researchers investigate a series of shark encounters involving surfers and paddleboarders in locations ranging from Australia to Florida.
With surfers accounting for a significant proportion of unprovoked shark bites worldwide, the documentary explores why these incidents occur and examines ways to reduce the risks.
Sunday, 12 July | 18:00
World’s Biggest Sharks
Scientists travel through the Florida Keys, the Bahamas and Hawaii in search of the largest sharks on Earth.
Along the way, they examine the environmental and biological factors that allow certain apex predators to reach extraordinary sizes.
Sunday, 19 July | 18:00
World’s Biggest Mako
A team of scientists, together with a cinematographer and a local fisherman, heads into the waters north of New Zealand in search of giant mako sharks.
Although mako populations are considered endangered in many parts of the world, the expedition uncovers evidence suggesting one population may be making a remarkable comeback.
Sunday, 26 July | 18:00
When Sharks Attack and Why
The month concludes with compelling investigations into some of the world’s most dramatic shark encounters.
Using eyewitness testimony, archive footage, expert analysis and marine science, the series explores why shark attacks sometimes increase in particular locations while searching for explanations behind these rare events.
Science, conservation and spectacular storytelling
For 14 years, SharkFest has offered audiences far more than thrilling underwater encounters.
Each programme combines stunning cinematography with scientific research, helping viewers better understand shark behaviour while highlighting the importance of protecting these vital marine predators.
Rather than focusing solely on fear, SharkFest continues to present sharks through the lens of discovery, education and conservation.
The result is a collection of documentaries that are as informative as they are visually spectacular.
When and where to watch
SharkFest 2026 airs every Sunday throughout July on National Geographic Wild.
Channel Information
National Geographic Wild
DStv: Channel 182
StarTimes: Channel 221 (DTH), Channel 210 (DTT) and Channel 250 (DTT Uganda)
Whether you’re fascinated by marine life, passionate about conservation or simply enjoy breathtaking wildlife documentaries, SharkFest 2026 promises a month filled with unforgettable ocean adventures.
