Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience

The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience in Cebu, Philippines, offers visitors a rare opportunity to interact with these majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat. This full-day tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the dos and don’ts of responsible whale shark encounters, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the participants and the animals. With stunning coastal scenery and historical sites along the way, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking an unforgettable adventure. But what exactly can guests expect from this unique wildlife encounter? Let’s dive in and discover the details that make this tour a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Oslob.

Key Points

• The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience is an 8-10 hour activity with a cost of $73.71 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation with early morning pickups from select hotels in the Cebu region and a total travel time of 6 hours.
• Participants can swim with whale sharks for up to 30 minutes and observe their natural behaviors from a safe distance after an orientation on rules and regulations.
• The tour also includes visits to historical sites like the Oslob Cuartel, providing opportunities to explore the area’s cultural and natural heritage.
• The package includes round-trip transportation, whale shark swimming registration and fees, snorkeling gear, and English-speaking tour guides, with breakfast and lunch also provided.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience offers visitors a chance to interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

The activity lasts 8-10 hours and costs $73.71 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a live tour guide is available in English.

Guests are picked up early, between 2:00-3:00 AM, from select hotels in Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu. The shared tour includes round-trip transportation, with a total travel time of 6 hours.

Upon arrival, guests receive an orientation at the Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center before swimming with the whale sharks for up to 30 minutes.

The experience also includes a visit to the historic Oslob Cuartel.

Itinerary and Transportation

Early morning pickups between 2:00am – 3:00am from selected hotel locations in Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu kickstart the Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience.

The shared tour includes round-trip transportation, totaling 6 hours of travel time – 3 hours to Oslob and 3 hours back.

Guests will be dropped off at 7 locations: Lapu-Lapu City, North Escario Street, Banilad, Talamban, Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Mactan.

This comprehensive itinerary ensures convenience and accessibility for travelers across the Cebu region.

Whale Shark Swimming Experience

Upon arrival at the Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center, guests undergo an orientation on the rules and regulations surrounding their encounter with the gentle giants.

After the briefing, they’ll have up to 30 minutes to swim alongside the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The experience offers:

1. An opportunity to observe the whale sharks’ natural behaviors and movements from a safe distance.
2. Stunning coastal views during additional stops at historical sites like the Oslob Cuartel.
3. Snorkeling equipment, including life jackets and masks, provided for a comfortable and safe swimming experience.

Orientation and Regulations

At the Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center, guests undergo a detailed orientation on the rules and regulations surrounding their encounter with the gentle giants.

They’re briefed on proper swimming techniques, maintaining a safe distance, and the importance of not touching or disturbing the whale sharks in any way.

Participants are also instructed to follow the directions of the guides at all times for their own safety and the protection of the creatures.

The orientation ensures everyone understands their role in this unique and privileged experience, which prioritizes the well-being of the whale sharks over human desires.

Adherence to the guidelines is strictly enforced to preserve this natural wonder for future generations.

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Additional Stops

After the orientation at the Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center, the tour takes guests to additional points of interest.

One of these is the Oslob Cuartel, a historic site with coastal views. Visitors can explore the remnants of the Spanish colonial garrison and take in the breathtaking scenery.

The tour also provides an opportunity to:

1. Appreciate the area’s rich history and architecture.
2. Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque coastline.
3. Gain a deeper understanding of Oslob’s cultural and natural heritage.

These supplementary activities enhance the overall whale shark swimming experience, offering a more well-rounded exploration of the region.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Round-trip transportation from select hotel locations in Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu is provided, making it convenient for travelers.

The Whale Shark Swimming registration and fees are also covered, granting participants access to the natural habitat of these magnificent creatures.

Plus, snorkeling gear, including a life jacket and mask, is supplied to enhance the underwater exploration.

Breakfast and lunch are included, though the lunch meal carries an extra fee.

Tour guides fluent in English are available to provide guidance and information throughout the excursion.

Important Reminders

Before embarking on the whale shark swimming experience, there are a few important reminders travelers should keep in mind.

First, visitors are advised to bring along a change of clothes, towel, toiletries, and cash, as these items may come in handy during the tour.

Second, the hotel pick-up and drop-off services are limited to the specified areas only.

Finally, while sightings of the gentle giants are guaranteed, travelers should expect to wait up to 3 hours during peak season to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

With these considerations in mind, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable encounter with the Oslob whale sharks.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience is straightforward and can be done conveniently online. Prices start from $73.71 per person, making it an accessible adventure.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, whale shark swimming registration and fees, tour guides, and snorkeling gear. Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

However, hotel pick-up and drop-off are limited to specified areas. While sightings are guaranteed, visitors should expect a 2-3 hour waiting time during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Whale Sharks?

The best time to see whale sharks is during the peak season, typically from December to May. During this period, visitors can expect reliable whale shark sightings with minimal waiting times.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

You can bring your own snorkeling gear, but it’s generally recommended to use the provided equipment. The tour operator ensures the gear is properly fitted and sanitized for each guest’s safety and comfort during the whale shark swimming experience.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Height Requirement?

There is no age limit or minimum height requirement for the Oslob whale shark swimming experience. However, participants must be able to swim and follow the safety guidelines provided during the orientation.

Can I Take Pictures and Videos During the Swimming Activity?

Yes, participants are allowed to take photos and videos during the whale shark swimming activity. Cameras and GoPros can be brought along, but it’s important to avoid touching the whale sharks or using flash photography to avoid disturbing them.

Is This Activity Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

The activity is suitable for non-swimmers as participants don’t need to swim during the encounter. They’ll wear life jackets and can simply float on the surface to observe the whale sharks up close.

Recap

The Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat. With a comprehensive itinerary, strict safety regulations, and additional cultural stops, the tour provides a well-rounded and memorable adventure for participants. At $73.71 per person, it’s a unique chance to swim alongside these magnificent creatures and take in the stunning coastal scenery of Cebu.

You can check if your dates are available here: