About this experience
Swimming with the Whale shark in Cancun is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for 3 main reasons: it's the biggest fish on Earth, only a few places around the world offer the chance to swim face-to-face with them, it's a seasonal tour.
So if you're lucky enough to be around Cancun and Riviera Maya in the right time, and you are willing to live this activity, you better make sure to do it with an experienced, trustworthy local operator.
Captains and crew are highly trained, and we offer small group tours only (10 people per boat).
At a glance
- Duration: 7 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 7 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Cancun Whale Shark Tours Guide
Before booking Cancun Whale Shark Tours, discover the season, costs, and boat realities that can make your dream swim unforgettable—or something else entirely.
Private Whale Shark Tour From Cancun
A private whale shark tour from Cancun offers a boat reserved for your group during the reserve’s May 15 to September 17 season. Learn what private really means, the conservation rules, timing, accessibility questions, a
Small Group Whale Shark Tour From Cancun
Plan a small-group whale shark tour from Cancun with clear advice on season timing, group sizes, open-water snorkeling, wildlife rules, and questions to ask before booking.
What is included
- Soda/Pop
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
After being picked up from your hotel or reached out to our meeting point, enjoy a complimentary coffee break (coffee, fruit juice, and pastries) while receiving a short safety briefing. All details about the tour are explained before leaving the mainland. Life jackets, fins, masks, and snorkels are provided to everyone.
The Whale Sharks area is around 45-75 minutes away. Stay aware as we usually see dolphins and giant rays on the way. All of our boats are +32 feet long, equipped with 2 powerful engines, toilet, sunshade, and comfortable seats. This means that the boat trip will be safe, fast, and enjoyable.
Once there, expect to see from 20 or 50 whale sharks. It depends on the season and weather conditions. We’ll swim 2 people at a time, always helped by your guide. Your turn swimming will be as long as you decide and can handle.
Once everyone in the boat is ready to go, we’ll leave the whale sharks area and take short refreshing stop on Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres to have lunch (fresh ceviche and sandwiches, vegan and vegetarian options available upon request when booking). Fruit, purified water, and soft drinks are offered during the whole tour.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We'll meet at the giant "Palapa" (on the opposite side of the sea), where we'll have the safety briefing and coffe break.
- Pick up time depends on your hotel's location, exact time it will be confirmed after the booking is completed. Transportation is offered in air conditioned vans. Please plan to be on time as we can offer only 5 minutes tolerance.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Captain Whale Shark
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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Traveller reviews and photos
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