Swim with Whale Sharks

Swim with one of the world’s largest congregations of whale sharks

Every June – August, hundreds of whale sharks congregate in Isla Mujeres. During this time, you can swim alongside the largest fish in the world, all within touching distance for an amazing intimate adventure. Alongside the whale sharks, we normally see large manta rays.

The whale sharks come here to feed on the eggs of spawning fish. Because the whale sharks feed on the surface, we only need a mask, fins, snorkel, and wetsuit. Our trips are seven days/six nights, with five boat days swimming with the whale sharks. Our trips are not the typical tourist trips; we specialize in intimate interactions, we use a larger “permitted” vessel that is fast, we leave earlier, and we stay out longer than the “tourist boats,” giving us lots of time to enjoy the best interactions.

On the Boat

A typical day on the water looks like this: We depart at 7 a.m. sharp. If the whale sharks are aggregating in a consistent location, we are hopefully in the water by 8 a.m.

For the next hour or two, we typically have the whale sharks to ourselves. We work in groups of three, rotating in/out of the water. The topside action is spectacular with incredible photo opportunities. In the water, if you have done this type of trip before, you will likely have more whale shark encounters within 5 minutes than your entire prior experiences combined. Words cannot describe the quantity and proximity of the whale sharks and the excitement you will feel! Around noon, most of the day boats have departed, and we have another hour or two alone with the whale sharks.

At 2 p.m., per the regulations, we are out of the water. After as many as six hours with the sharks, we turn south and head back to shore for a swim in the pool and island time.

Hotel

We are staying at Playa La Media Luna, which is where we stay each year. It is located toward the northeast point of the island. The rooms are comfortable but basic, and we reserve them as bookings are taken. You will need to indicate whether you want your own room or are sharing. The hotel has free wifi internet and a nice pool. Every afternoon, we rinse and relax here after our day on the water.

Meals

Lunch and snacks are included on the boat free of charge. This consists of sandwiches, fruit, chips, bars, soft drinks, and water. You are responsible for your breakfast. Dinner is also separate and costs usually less than $25 each with drinks. Each evening we head out together and enjoy Mexican dining at any one of the fun restaurants on the island. Dinner is a great time where we catch up on the day’s activities and share stories of our adventures.

Cameras

For those of you with cameras, you should know that strobes are not allowed and frankly not necessary either. Last year, we shot everything without strobes using as wide lenses as possible.

Equipment

A wetsuit is required. The water is quite warm. We recommend a thin shorty or full suit (3mm or less). You likely will be swimming a LOT, so we recommend comfortable full-foot fins (leave your heavy/stiff open-heel fins at home) and neoprene socks. Bring plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF as you are exposed to lots of sun.

Airport Transfers 

We can also arrange your shuttle from the airport to the Cancun/Isla Mujeres ferry. The shuttle takes about 30 minutes, and the ferry another 20 minutes to transfer you to the island.

Please note: Once you book this trip, someone will be in contact with you very soon to coordinate the details of your trip and give you advice on anything you need to bring!