This page is here to protect your trip. Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most incredible wildlife experiences in the Mexican Caribbean—and it is also one of the most regulated. Please read this once before you reserve so you know exactly how the day works, what’s required, and what the rules are on the water.
This activity takes place with wild animals in the open ocean. Conditions change day to day, and whale sharks move freely with food and currents. We plan carefully and search intelligently, but no one can (or may) promise a sighting.
Our commitment is simple: run the tour only when it’s safe and worthwhile, follow the official rules that protect the animals, and be transparent with you from start to finish.
Officially, the whale shark season begins on May 15th and ends on September 17th, as established by Mexican authorities. During these months, whale sharks migrate through the region in search of food. Their migration does not follow a fixed route or schedule, and sightings vary throughout the season.
Early in the season (May and early June), sightings tend to be scattered and involve smaller numbers of animals. From July through August, sightings typically peak, with a higher concentration of whale sharks in the area. In September, sightings gradually decrease as the animals begin to leave the region. Although whale sharks may still be present after September 17th, Mexican law prohibits tour operations beyond this date.
Weather conditions play a critical role in whale shark tours. Wind, waves, and sea conditions directly affect travel time, comfort, and visibility. On windy days, wave action increases, making travel slower and sightings more challenging. On calm days, navigation is smoother, travel time is shorter, and spotting whale sharks from a distance is easier, resulting in a more enjoyable snorkeling experience.
All whale shark tours are subject to authorization by local and regional Harbor Masters. In addition to official instructions, we independently assess whether conditions are suitable, taking into account safety, comfort, and the likelihood of sightings before each tour.
Weather conditions in our region are generally favorable during the summer months; however, tropical systems can occasionally affect the area, particularly toward the end of the season. In such cases, tours may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled for safety reasons.
The authorized whale shark activity zone is a large offshore area north of Isla Mujeres and toward Isla Contoy and Holbox. Where the animals are found on any given day depends on food and sea conditions, so the search area can shift.
Travel time to the general area can be about 1–2 hours, and the time needed to find whale sharks can vary widely. Some days we locate them quickly; other days the search takes longer—this is normal for open-ocean wildlife.
Whale sharks are here to feed. When food stays deeper or visibility is reduced, sightings and swimming opportunities can change. This is one of the main reasons tours cannot be sold with guarantees.
Considering these factors, we summarize general conditions below:
(Scroll right on mobile devices)
| May 15 – June 10 | June 11 – June 30 | July 1 – August 31 | September 1 – September 17 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weather conditions | Acceptable | Very good | Excellent | Poor |
| Whale shark sightings | Occasional | Frequent | Very frequent | Frequent |
Whale shark tourism in the Mexican Caribbean is regulated by Mexican environmental and protected-area authorities. Only authorized activity is allowed, under a code of conduct designed to prevent harassment and protect the animals’ habitat.
On busy days, multiple boats may be in the same general area—especially when food brings whale sharks together. The rules limit how boats approach and how long a boat may stay with an animal.
Authorities may limit swimming opportunities based on conditions, animal behavior, and capacity rules. When swimming is restricted, we continue with regulated observation from the boat and complete the rest of the itinerary as conditions allow.
We do not sell “guaranteed sightings.” With wild animals, guarantees create pressure to chase, crowd, or push interactions—and that is exactly what the official code of conduct is designed to prevent.
Whale sharks are free-roaming in the open ocean, and their presence is never under human control. If conditions indicate a low probability of a meaningful encounter, we will tell you as early as possible and discuss rescheduling options.
If the harbor is closed by authorities, we do not operate. If we cancel due to unsafe conditions, you may choose a 100% refund or reschedule (subject to availability).
Cancellations made more than 7 days prior to the tour date receive a full refund. Cancellations made 6 days or less before the tour receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 2 days of the tour date and no-shows are non-refundable. These policies exist to secure reservations and maintain responsible capacity management.
For safety, this activity has important restrictions. If you are unsure, message us before you book so we can advise honestly.
This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests or for anyone with medical conditions that make open-ocean snorkeling unsafe (for example: serious heart, neurological, back, or mobility conditions), or for anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Minors between the ages of 10 and 16 may participate only when accompanied by an adult. Children between 6 and 10 may participate only with a signed parental liability waiver. Children under 6 are not permitted.
The use of life vests is mandatory for all participants.
The service provider is not responsible for damages caused by participant negligence or failure to follow instructions.
All participants must wear a bracelet indicating payment of the required federal tax (included in the tour price).
The fundamental rule is “look, do not touch.” In addition, the following regulations must be strictly observed:
• Water entries and time with the animals are strictly managed; follow the guide’s instructions at all times
• Only two swimmers enter at a time, always together with a guide
• Enter the water calmly (no jumping or splashing) and keep movements slow
• Life vests are mandatory for all swimmers
• No free-diving, no diving down, and never swim under a whale shark
• Do not touch: keep a respectful distance (minimum 5 m / 16 ft from the head, 6 m / 20 ft from the tail)
• No sunscreen, oils, or lotions in the water—use a rashguard and hat for sun protection
• Drones or remotely piloted aircraft are not allowed
• No alcohol or intoxicants before or during the tour
• No flash photography; selfie sticks and underwater scooters are not allowed