This once-in-a-lifetime whale shark snorkeling adventure takes you into the Caribbean Sea near Isla Mujeres to swim alongside the largest fish on the planet. From June through September, hundreds of whale sharks gather just north of the island, forming the largest whale shark congregation in the world. A certified guide accompanies small groups of two into the water at a time, giving each guest a close, safe view of these gentle giants. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, manta rays, and flying fish. Round-trip transportation, English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, a light lunch, and drinks are all included.
Your day begins with a scenic boat ride of about 50 minutes out into the Caribbean Sea, leaving the coastline of Isla Mujeres behind as the water shifts to a deep, clear blue. Keep watch along the way — dolphins, manta rays, and flying fish are frequently spotted crossing the boat's path.
Once in the whale shark zone, you'll enter the water in pairs alongside a certified guide for a close encounter with these gentle giants. Whale sharks glide near the surface with their distinctive spotted patterns and wide, open mouths as they filter-feed, and guests typically get two turns in the water over the course of the outing, sea conditions permitting.
Back on board, relax with a light lunch and drinks as the boat heads back to shore, capping off a day spent alongside the ocean's largest fish in their natural habitat.
- Carbonated beverages
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
Swimsuit, towel, long-sleeve shirt for sun protection (sunscreen is not allowed in the whale shark area), a hat, sunglasses with a strap, cash for the $10 USD environmental/dock use fee, and a change of clothes for after the swim.
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for people who get seasick easily
- Sunscreen is not allowed in the whale shark area; a long-sleeve shirt is recommended for sun protection instead
- An environmental tax and dock use fee of $10.00 USD per person is payable in cash on the day of the tour
- If staying on Isla Mujeres, transportation to the meeting point is not included and guests must make their own way there
- Meet at the Black Pearl Dock in Isla Mujeres or the Punta Sam Ferry Terminal in Cancún (or get picked up from your hotel if included in your option)
- Board the boat and depart for the whale shark feeding grounds -- approximately a 50-minute ride
- Arrive in the whale shark area and prepare snorkeling gear with your certified guide
- Enter the water in pairs with your guide for a close encounter with the whale sharks -- guests typically get two turns in the water, sea conditions permitting
- Keep an eye out for dolphins, manta rays, and flying fish along the way
- Enjoy a light lunch and drinks on board as the boat returns to the dock
- Arrive back at the meeting point (or be dropped off at your hotel if pickup was included)
Meeting Point 📍 Black Pearl Dock, Isla Mujeres (behind Perla Negra Store) — or Punta Sam Ferry Terminal, Cancún
Hotel pickup is available from Cancún, Costa Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and the Mayan Riviera. Exact pickup details will be sent after booking.
$155 USD per person (ages 11+)
Free for children ages 4-10
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
This experience may be cancelled due to bad weather conditions.
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