Whale Shark Watching and Snorkeling Experience from Cancun
Overview
Encounter the world’s biggest fish, the majestic whale shark. Do not miss this seasonal phenomenon, only available in select parts of the world, and join us for a swim along the awe-inspiring giant.
Despite their name, whale sharks are as non-aggressive and calm as you can wish. Feeding off invisible plankton, hundreds of whales migrate to Cancun each summer to find food in the warm waters of the Caribbean.
Cruise out to the area of paradise island Contoy, where the whale sharks are usually encountered usually. You might stumble upon a single or a whole group. Once you approach them, put on your life jacket and snorkeling gear, and descend into the water, taking turns.
Swim along with the graceful gigantic fish, observing its movements with fascination. On some occasions, you might even be able to spot it from the boat, as the whale sharks tend to swim close to the surface.
Conclude the amazing experience with a lunch before returning to your hotel.
What's Included
- Roundtrip transportation from most hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen
- Lunch & light breakfast
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Bottled water & soda
- Food and beverages not listed as inclusions
- Gratuities
- Dock fee
Meeting and Pickup
You must contact Cancun Experience at least 24 hours before your product date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation, if you book within 24 hours please contact immediately. Use the contact details on your confirmation/voucher.If your hotel is outside of the coverage area, you will be asked to meet the tour at a designated meeting point.
What To Expect
Swim with the world's largest fish on an unforgettable Whale Shark Encounter in the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean.
Your adventure begins with hotel pickup and a journey to Cancun, where you'll enjoy a light breakfast before boarding a fully equipped boat and heading to the Whale Shark Biosphere Reserve. Accompanied by certified guides, you'll learn fascinating facts about these gentle giants and their habitat.
Once whale sharks are located, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel alongside them in small groups, ensuring a safe and respectful wildlife experience.
After your whale shark encounter, enjoy refreshments onboard and continue the adventure with a snorkeling stop in the turquoise Caribbean waters. Later, enjoy lunch before visiting the world-famous Playa Norte in Isla Mujeres, where you can swim, relax, and soak in the island atmosphere.
Our experienced team is committed to providing a safe, educational, and memorable experience while promoting responsible wildlife tourism.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- 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
- You must be 8 or older.
- Maximum allowed weight is 250 lb (113 kg).
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(13)Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-279586P51
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Cancun and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (13)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Cancun customers.
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Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Cool Cancun snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on Cool Cancun tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST).
- Roundtrip transportation from most hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
- Lunch & light breakfast.
- Use of Snorkelling equipment.
- Bottled water & soda.
- Food and beverages not listed as inclusions.
- Gratuities.
- Dock fee.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 8. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Whale Shark Watching and Snorkeling Experience from Cancun is as follows:
- 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
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Whale Shark Watching and Snorkeling Experience from Cancun will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Cancun. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Roundtrip transportation from most hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen
- Lunch & light breakfast
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Bottled water & soda
- Food and beverages not listed as inclusions
- Gratuities
- Dock fee
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- 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
- You must be 8 or older.
- Maximum allowed weight is 250 lb (113 kg).
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
