Bohol Whaleshark Experience

The Bohol Whale Shark Experience offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. Situated in the picturesque town of Lila, the tour provides a chance to swim alongside the world’s largest fish from November to May. With an experienced guide leading the way, guests can expect an unforgettable encounter in the open waters. Beyond the thrill of swimming with whale sharks, the tour also showcases Bohol’s stunning natural beauty, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s marine ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Bohol Whale Shark Experience promises an unforgettable day.

Key Points

• Experience swimming with whale sharks in Lila, Bohol during the dry season (November to May).
• The 4-hour tour includes 3 hours of whale watching and a private group experience with pickup from designated locations.
• The tour package includes transportation, guide, equipment, and environmental fees, but excludes meals and personal expenses.
• Restrictions apply for children under 3, pregnant women, and individuals over 70, and sunscreen is prohibited.
• Customer reviews indicate positive feedback on guides but concerns about the short duration and logistical issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Visitors can experience swimming with whale sharks in Lila, Bohol during the dry season, from November to May.

The tour lasts 4 hours, including 3 hours of whale watching. A live tour guide fluent in English and Tagalog is available.

This is a private group experience with pickup from designated locations. Guests can reserve the activity and pay later.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.

Booking Details

Typically, the activity is priced from €71.84 per person. Customers have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can also check availability for starting times and group sizes.

The key booking details include:

1. Pricing from €71.84 per person
2. Reserve now & pay later option
3. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
4. Availability check for start times and group size

Itinerary Information

The van ride to Lila for whale watching takes approximately 1 hour.

Once there, guests will board a boat and venture out onto the open waters to search for the magnificent whale sharks. The main sites passed during the trip may vary, as the itinerary is subject to change.

After the 3-hour whale watching experience, the van will return guests to their designated drop-off locations in Tagbilaran City or Panglao.

The pickup and return points are hotel accommodations within these areas, with pickup scheduled for 8:00 AM.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a change of clothes and a towel for the excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes the vehicle, fuel, parking fee, driver/tour guide, environmental fee, snorkeling mask, life vest, and boat for the whale watching experience.

However, there are some exclusions:

1. Meals
2. Personal expenses
3. Travel insurance
4. Any other items not mentioned in the inclusions

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or individuals over 70.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a change of clothes, and a towel. Sunscreen isn’t allowed as it can harm the whale sharks.

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Pickup and Return

The pickup and return locations for the Bohol Whaleshark Experience are the hotel accommodations within Panglao or Tagbilaran City.

The tour begins with a prompt 8:00 AM pickup from your hotel. After the 1-hour van ride to Lila, you’ll enjoy 3 hours of whale watching.

Once the experience is complete, you’ll be dropped off back at your original pickup location in Tagbilaran City or Panglao.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a change of clothes and a towel. Sunscreen isn’t allowed as it can harm the whale sharks.

The overall customer rating for this activity is 3 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes and a change of clothes are essential for the Bohol Whaleshark Experience.

You’ll want to dress for the occasion and be prepared for the following:

• A towel to dry off after snorkeling
• Sun protection, such as a hat or rash guard (no sunscreen allowed to protect the whale sharks)
• Any personal medications or items you may need during the 4-hour tour
• A small waterproof bag to keep your belongings safe and dry

Restrictions

Certain restrictions apply for the Bohol Whaleshark Experience to ensure the safety and well-being of both participants and the marine life.

Children under 3 and pregnant women aren’t permitted on the tour, as the activity may be physically demanding. Plus, individuals over the age of 70 are advised against joining due to potential health concerns.

Participants are also prohibited from using sunscreen, as it can harm the whale sharks.

The tour operator reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone they deem unfit for the experience.

These guidelines help maintain a safe and responsible environment for all involved in this unique wildlife encounter.

Customer Reviews

With over two dozen reviews available, customers appear to have had a mixed experience with the Bohol Whaleshark Experience. The tour received an overall rating of 3/5 based on the limited feedback:

1. Several reviewers praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, who made the experience enjoyable and informative.

2. However, some customers were disappointed by the short duration of the whale watching portion, feeling that 3 hours wasn’t enough time.

3. A few reviews noted logistical issues, such as delays with pickup and drop-off times.

4. A small number of visitors expressed concern about the limited accessibility, as the tour isn’t suitable for young children, pregnant women, or elderly individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for This Activity?

The activity is a private group experience, though the minimum and maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. The experience is customizable and allows for flexibility in participant selection.

Are Professional Underwater Cameras Allowed During the Experience?

Professional underwater cameras are allowed during the experience, but their use is not recommended as they may disturb the whale sharks. Guests are encouraged to focus on the incredible encounter and capture the memories through their own experiences.

Is This Activity Suitable for Visitors With Disabilities?

The activity is not suitable for visitors with disabilities. According to the provided information, the experience is not recommended for individuals over 70 years old, suggesting it may be physically demanding and not fully accessible.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer vegetarian or halal meal options. However, visitors can request special dietary requirements when booking, and the staff will do their best to accommodate individual needs if possible.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing provided does not mention any additional fees or taxes. However, it’s always best to confirm with the tour operator if there are any other charges that may apply to the booking.

Recap

The Bohol Whale Shark Experience offers a remarkable opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Guests can expect a scenic van ride, three hours of whale watching, and a responsible encounter with marine life, guided by English and Tagalog-speaking professionals. With necessary preparations and adherence to guidelines, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable and educational experience in Lila, Bohol.

You can check if your dates are available here: