The Whale shark season runs from May 15th to September 16th.
July and August have the highest sighting success rates on our chart, while early June and September maintain a 75% sighting rate.
In May you really have to be lucky as we consider there is 50% rate chances to see sharks
Through the years, we have collected GPS coordinates of ridges where whale sharks
gather to feed during a massive fish spawning event that attracts them from all
corners of the Atlantic each year. Where there are fish eggs and plankton to be consumed,
you'll find abundant whale sharks and manta rays.
The boat ride from Isla Mujeres to the whale shark area typically takes approximately 1 hour. However, during May, June, or late September, it may extend to an additional hour if an extensive search is required.
No, you are not. Every visitor in the marine reserve must wear a marine reserve bracelet, which proves a contribution has been made to their conservation. We strictly adhere to government regulations for this purpose.
To whale sharks, humans in the water will appear as other creatures of the sea, and as long as you give them their space, we can all enjoy each other’s company!
No, whale sharks are not harmful to humans and can get very close, tempting you to touch them. However, we do not allow touching them as it could potentially irritate or scare them away while they are peacefully feeding on plankton. Therefore, nobody is allowed to harm, touch, ride, hug, or interfere with the sharks in any way.
Diving with whale sharks in the protected area is no longer permitted. Biologists have determined that bubbles from diving can make the sharks think they are full, potentially interfering with their long-term nutrition. Since 2015, only snorkeling is allowed, which better suits the encounter with whale sharks, as they are typically found near the surface feeding on floating "bonito" eggs.
Yes, it is mandatory for everyone to wear a life jacket with the name of the boat for safety and precautionary measures.
Of course! You are welcome to bring any personal water gear onboard, as long as it doesn't take up too much space that others might need. However, if you have booked a private tour, feel free to bring whatever you need
We do not sell/give any medication during the tour. We do advise though that if you feel prone to seasick or would simply like to prevent it, then consult your doctor and bring some prescribed medicine along with you. Take med (advised by your doctor like Dramamine) 20 minutes before boarding the boat to increase effectivity.
We cannot control nature and therefore Whale Shark Adventures does NOT guarantee snorkeling with the whale sharks nor the sightings. The whale sharks come to the waters near Isla Mujeres to feed on plankton, however when there is no/few food (plankton) there simply are no/not many whale sharks. We offer the Whale Shark Tour in Isla Mujeres from mid-May to Mid-September, but we strongly recommend to make your reservation between mid-June to August since there is a higher 99% possibility to see whale sharks.
*End of September has currently a 75% success chance to encounter whale sharks
Over 30 years of experience working in the Caribbean Sea, through any weather conditions imaginable, has given our crew the expertise to handle any situation that may arise. Our personalized attention and comfortable, fast transportation, prioritizing your safety, are exactly what you need for off-shore exploration.
If you would like to contribute to the research and protection of these incredible animals, there are various local NGOs in Mexico. For more information please contact us at info@whalesharkadventures.com