Swimming with whale sharks
The largest fish in the world, just metres away.
MexicoFull dayModerate
Best time
Nov – Apr
Currency
MXN
Climate
Tropical Caribbean
Flight
11h
Language
Spanish
Between June and mid-September, several hundred whale sharks gather off the Yucatán to feed on plankton, sardine shoals and fish eggs. This fish can exceed twelve metres and twenty tonnes, yet remains harmless: its diet is limited to filtering micro-organisms.
Departure is very early, around six thirty, and the observation zone takes one to two hours of open-sea sailing. The rules set by CONANP are strict: two swimmers plus a guide in the water, no contact with the animal, and no sunscreen — only coconut oil or a full wetsuit is allowed. Each passenger gets several successive turns in the water.
Good to know: the 300 peso federal tax, around 15 €, is not included and is paid locally. Wetsuit hire and souvenir photos or videos are extra.
Highlights
The largest fish in the world
Two swimmers and a guide
Several turns in the water
A swimming stop at Isla Mujeres
June to mid-September season
What's included
Return transfer
Continental breakfast at the marina
Boat trip, fins, mask, snorkel and vest
Briefing and guide in the water
Lunch on board: ceviche, grilled fish and tortillas
Itinerary
- 106:30
Leaving the marina
A safety briefing in French before casting off.
- 2
Sailing the open sea
One to two hours to the observation zone.
- 3
Turns in the water
Two swimmers and a guide at a time, in rotation.
- 4
A stop at Isla Mujeres
A late-morning swim to unwind.
- 5
Lunch and return
Ceviche and grilled fish served on board.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Local partner
Globeasy local partnerRiviera Maya
Runs the excursion on the ground
