Have you ever dreamed of snorkeling with the magnificent whale sharks? It’s an experience like no other, getting up close and personal with these gentle giants. This experience should be on any wildlife-loving traveler’s bucket list. You can read my entire experience of snorkeling with whale sharks in Mexico. Before you jump in the water, there are a few things to know about whale sharks to ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter.
If you’re planning to snorkel with whale sharks, it’s crucial to be well-prepared and knowledgeable about the experience. From understanding their behavior to knowing the best locations and safety guidelines, being informed will not only enhance your experience but also protect the sharks and their habitat. So before you embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, let’s explore the essential things you should know. I’m going to go through the most frequently asked questions about snorkeling with whale sharks so you can be prepared for this incredible experience.
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.
If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.
What is a whale shark?
Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean. They range in length from 7.5 – 14m (20 to 50 feet long). They are an endangered species and are only found in tropical waters. Usually, they stay deep in the ocean and come up to the surface to feed on plankton and krill. They are filter feeders, which means they open their mouths wide and filter the water out through their gills. A whale shark encounter happens when the animal is feeding and thus up near the surface of the water.
What is the largest whale shark ever recorded?
The largest whale shark on record is 61.7 feet (over 20 m) long!
Are whale sharks sharks or whales?
Try saying that 5 times fast! Whale sharks are a docile variety of shark. Similar to a nurse shark, they are not aggressive. Since they eat plankton and krill, humans do not have to worry about being confused for their meals (which is the basis for most shark attacks on humans).
Do whale sharks bite?
This is such an important thing to know about whale sharks, because when you tell people you’re going swimming with them, they’ll ask. The answer: Nope. They don’t even bite their prey! They’re filter feeders so they take in all the water and food and filter the water through their gills. It’s amusing to me that the biggest fish eats some of the smallest prey.
Whale shark tip: Do NOT press your luck. They are wild animals and safety should be your top priority. You never know when an animal has had a bad day, could be protective, or you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Do whale sharks have teeth?
Yes – teeny tiny ones when you compare them to the size of the whale shark.
Why are whale sharks at the surface?
Whale sharks only come to the surface for feeding. They are usually deep-sea fish. They have been known to go as deep as 6,200 feet (1,900 meters)! You can snorkel with them only when they’re feeding.
Where can I snorkel with Whale Sharks?
There are only a few places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks.
- Isla Mujeres, Mexico (near Cancun)
- Socorro Island, Mexico (near Cabo San Lucas)
- Gladden Spit, Belize
- Oslob, Philippines (near Cebu)
- Pacific Coast of Costa Rica (usually near Las Catalinas Islands)
- Bali, Indonesia
- Galapagos Islands (Wolf & Darwin Islands in the north)
How many whale sharks can I expect to see?
Generally speaking, whale sharks are solitary creatures. They do not travel in pods or groups unless there is a huge amount of their favorite food in one location. The largest groups of whale sharks are found in the Mexican Caribbean – near Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Holbox during the summer when there is an incredible about of krill in the water.
We found two small groups of whale sharks. The first had four whale sharks and the second group we went to had two sharks and another one was coming in that direction when we left the area.
Should I do a tour from Cancun, Isla Mujeres, or Holbox Mexico?
Whale sharks are wild animals, which means they’re in the wild. The tour goes to the animals, not the other way around. The tours from these areas all go to the same place. The biggest difference is how much time you spend on the boat. If you read my experience with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, you’ll see that our boat ride was about 90 minutes long just to find the sharks, then we moved to find a second group.
If you do a tour from Cancun it’s a little bit longer on the boat by like 15-20 minutes. A whale shark tour from Holbox would be about 2-2.5 hours long to the same area.
If you’re prone to seasickness or want to save some time, then definitely take a tour from Isla Mujeres.
When is the best time to see whale sharks in Mexico?
If you really want to see whale sharks, there is no point in visiting out of season. In Mexico, the whale shark season is mid-May through mid-September. Whenever I travel for animals I try to visit right in the middle of the season, that way if the animals are running late or leaving early I’m still safe. I went in late July for peak season!
What is the water temperature for swimming with whale sharks?
Since whale sharks prefer warm water, you don’t need to be worried about being cold in the water. Usually, the temperature is between 75-85° F (24-29° C).
What equipment is provided for snorkeling with whale sharks?
This depends on the company, but usually, a mask, fin, and snorkel are provided. Make sure your equipment fits BEFORE you’re in the water. Rinse out your mask so it doesn’t fog. Secure your fins to make sure you have the right size. I’m a very strong swimmer and had trouble keeping up with the shark WITH fins, so you’ll definitely need the fins. If you prefer to bring your own gear, you can!
How close can I get to the whale shark?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions about swimming with whale sharks – and there isn’t a real answer, because it depends on the shark. You should aim to keep your distance, but sometimes creatures are curious. It’s best to stay 4 meters (12 feet) from the tail and head depending on how you see the shark. It gives the shark plenty of room to move freely without touching you. If you get too close to the shark, you can stress the animal and make them dive deep instantly.
Fun Fact: Whale sharks think that we smell. Whale sharks are incredibly sensitive to smell – from our perfume to shampoo & conditioner and even sunscreen. Please use as few scented things as possible. Use a sun guard shirt so you are still protected from the sun without using sunscreen. Even reef-safe sunscreen leaves oil in the water!
How do I pick a whale shark tour?
Selecting a whale shark excursion is an important decision. Obviously, ethical practices should be your first concern. Any company that uses food to attract the animal or says you’ll be able to pet or ride the shark is a definite no. We went with Isla Fun Tours and I felt that they did a great job keeping the whale shark as their first priority. You can read about my entire experience snorkeling with whale sharks here.
Many companies say they guarantee a sighting. While this is usually a red flag (as it means they are feeding the animals or they’re actually captive), I found that it usually means that they’ll let you join another tour for free if you don’t see the shark on your trip.
Pro Tip: Book the whale shark tour at the beginning of your vacation so you have extra time to do more tours if you don’t see them. Be sure to leave one day or morning open so you can allow for a change.
Should I do a private tour or a group tour?
This is one of the most common questions that I’m asked. Honestly, the private tour isn’t worth it. You’re going on the same boats as the group tour (similar in style and size) and going to the same location – where the whale sharks are! Two people are allowed in the water from each boat, so you’ll still be in the madness of getting in the water. So unless you’ve got a couple of hundred dollars that you want to burn, do the group tour.
The boat captain will talk to other boats so they can all get their group to the whale shark. The more eyes on the water, the more likely everyone will have an amazing whale shark experience!
Read More about Mexico
Best Tour for Snorkeling with Whale Sharks, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Let me know if there’s anything else you want to know about snorkeling with whale sharks in the comments!
Save “Things to Know about Whale Sharks” for Later!
