Whale shark season is coming: snorkel alongside gentle giants

Want to swim with whale sharks in Cancun? The season is approaching…

The biggest fish in the ocean are coming to the shores of Cancun, and we couldn’t be more excited! The whale shark snorkel season commences the beginning of June and runs until mid-September. During this time you will have the opportunity to snorkel beside these gentle giants.

What makes whale sharks so magical?

Whale sharks are the biggest filter feeders in the ocean. They average in length between 5-10metres/15-30ft (the largest one ever recorded was 18m/60ft!). Despite their grand size they are known for being docile creatures, posing no threat to humans. They swim slowly, moving around 3 miles per hour and can be found in tropical waters all over the world. They come to the shores of Cancun/Isla Mujeres between June and September to feed on plankton/tiny fish which are abundant during the summer months.

How the tour operates:

The whale shark snorkel tours meet early in the morning. If travelling from Cancun you will be taken to a pier to catch the boat to the whale shark point, travel time is around 45-50 mins depending on sea conditions. The boats are generally small, consisting of around 10 people maximum. Full snorkel-gear is obligatory (mask, snorkel, fins and a life-jacket), all of which will be provided on the boat. If you have your own gear you may bring it with you.

The sun rising over the pier

Protecting the whale sharks is a priority. In order to not overcrowd them, each small group will hop into the water with a professional guide for an allocated time (around 10 minutes). Each small group on the boat will able to jump into the water to swim with the sharks several times.

The boat will remain in the whale shark area for up to 3 hours. Keep your eyes peeled because it's possible to spot dolphins, turtles and manta rays too!

You are then transported back to the pier in Cancun where you can catch a ride back to your hotel or elsewhere - whichever you have prior planned!

Snorkel time!

Some additional considerations:

Be prepared for a longer day - the travel time can be long from your hotel to the whale shark snorkel point, you will get up early and it's possible you won't get back until around 4/5pm. Consider this if travelling with small children.

No sunscreen - regular sunscreen is poisonous to marine life and is banned from the tours. Please opt for a reef-safe sunscreen OR wear a rash guard/hat to protect yourself from sun exposure.

Sea sickness - the ride out to the whale shark snorkel point is long and the seas are not always calm! Better to be safe and take precautions beforehand. This can be in the form of anti-seasickness pills, ginger tea or tablets or pressure point bracelets.

Follow the guide - make sure always to follow the instructions of the guide. Their priority is to keep you and the whale sharks safe, so actively listen to their advice to optimize your experience.

Tip your crew—tips are customary in Mexico. The crew works hard to give you the best possible experience, so remember to bring some cash (dollars or pesos) to show them your appreciation!

www.mantadivers.com

Whale Shark (June 1 - August 31) | Manta Dive Snorkel

Snorkeling with whale sharks in Cancun through Manta Divers Cancun promises an awe-inspiring adventure that seamlessly blends exhilaration, natural beauty, and culinary delight. From the convenience of a hotel pickup to the thrill of swimming alongside these gentle giants, this experience is a highlight of any Cancun visit. The day begins with a comfortable hotel pickup, setting the tone for a hassle-free adventure. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by experienced guides who will provide essential safety briefings and share their extensive knowledge about these magnificent creatures. The heart of the excursion lies in the water, where you'll have the chance to snorkel with whale sharks, the world's largest fish. As you take turns jumping into the crystal-clear waters alongside these majestic creatures, you'll be left in awe of their sheer size and grace. It's a mesmerizing encounter that leaves an indelible mark. After your unforgettable whale shark snorkeling experience, the journey continues to the stunning Isla Contoy. Here, you'll be treated to a delectable ceviche beach lunch, savoring fresh local flavors on a pristine white sand beach. It's an opportunity to relax, unwind, and appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. But the adventure doesn't end there. Following lunch, you'll visit a local reef for another round of snorkeling. This reef teems with colorful marine life, offering a vibrant contrast to the earlier encounter with the gentle giants. As the day comes to a close, the group heads back to shore, where the transportation awaits to take you back to your hotel. Snorkeling with whale sharks, indulging in delicious cuisine on a secluded beach, and exploring vibrant underwater worlds make this excursion with Manta Divers Cancun a truly unforgettable and immersive experience in the natural wonders of Cancun's waters. Please contact us via Email or Phone if you need more information.