From Akumal: Whale Shark Tour

Embark on an unforgettable excursion from Akumal to witness the majestic whale sharks of the Caribbean Sea. This 8-hour adventure offers an intimate experience, with a maximum of 10 participants. Spend two captivating hours snorkeling alongside these gentle giants, which can grow up to 18 meters in length. The tour also includes a visit to the picturesque Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, where you’ll savor a delicious lunch. Guided by bilingual experts, this tour promises to immerse you in the wonders of the underwater world. But the real question is, are you ready to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures?

Key Points

• 8-hour tour from Akumal to Puerto Aventuras for whale shark viewing, with a maximum group size of 10 participants.
• 2-hour snorkeling session in the Caribbean Sea to observe and swim with whale sharks measuring up to 18 meters.
• Visit to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres for a delightful lunch as part of the tour package.
• Bilingual guides, snorkeling gear, hotel transfers, and all necessary fees included in the tour.
• Opportunity for an unforgettable adventure and close encounters with the world’s largest fish.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Whale Shark Tour from Akumal offers an exciting opportunity to snorkel with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, in the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea.

This 8-hour tour takes guests to the prime whale shark viewing location of Puerto Aventuras. With a maximum group size of 10 participants, you’ll have an intimate experience observing these magnificent creatures that can measure up to 18 meters in length.

The tour includes a 2-hour snorkeling session, as well as a visit to the beautiful Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres for a delicious lunch.

Bilingual guides, snorkeling gear, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all necessary fees are included, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

Experience Highlights

After learning about the tour overview, one can now explore the experience highlights of this Whale Shark Tour from Akumal.

Snorkeling with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, measuring up to 13 meters, with reports of individuals up to 18 meters, is the main draw of this 8-hour excursion.

Participants will enjoy a 2-hour snorkeling session in the Caribbean Sea, where they’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

The tour also includes a visit to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres for a delicious lunch.

With the provided snorkeling gear and the guidance of a bilingual expert, guests are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Inclusions

This whale shark tour from Akumal includes a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) to lead the experience, along with snacks, lunch, water, and soft drinks to keep participants refreshed throughout the day.

Snorkeling gear, including masks, life jackets, and fins, is also provided for the 2-hour snorkeling session in the Caribbean Sea.

Plus, hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as the required port fee and whale shark area fee ($15 USD per person, payable in cash), are all covered in the tour price.

Guests can also opt to rent a wetsuit and request photos and video of their encounter with the gentle whale sharks.

Important Information

Typically, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, wheelchair users, pregnant women, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Sunscreen is also not allowed during the snorkeling activities. This is to protect the delicate marine environment and ensure the safety of all participants.

The tour offers a few key policies to be aware of:

1. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. A port fee and whale shark area fee of $15 USD per person must be paid in cash.

3. Wetsuit rentals are available for those who need them.

4. Photos and videos can be requested during the tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

The Whale Shark Tour from Akumal has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with a 5/5 rating based on a single review. The customer, Maria from Denmark, declared the tour "Amazing!!!" after her experience in July 2024.

Review	Rating	Reviewer	Nationality	Date
Amazing!!!	5/5	Maria	Danish	July 18, 2024

This stellar review highlights the exceptional quality of the tour and the memorable encounters with the majestic whale sharks. Customers can expect a thrilling and educational experience led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, as well as a delightful lunch on Isla Mujeres. The Whale Shark Tour from Akumal promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Caribbean.

Whale Shark Encounter

Guests can expect a captivating 2-hour snorkeling session in the Caribbean Sea, where they’ll have the opportunity to encounter the world’s largest fish – the magnificent whale shark. These gentle giants can measure up to 13 meters, with reports of individuals reaching 18 meters in length.

The experience offers:

1. An up-close look at the whale sharks as they glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters.

2. The chance to observe the sharks’ unique feeding behavior, as they open their cavernous mouths to filter plankton and small fish.

3. Stunning underwater scenery, with vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life.

4. The thrill of swimming alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Exploring Playa Norte

After the captivating whale shark encounter, guests will explore Playa Norte, a picturesque beach on Isla Mujeres, where they’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

This stunning white sand beach is known for its tranquil turquoise waters and laidback atmosphere. Guests can stroll along the shore, take a dip in the refreshing sea, or simply relax and soak up the sun.

The tour includes a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, allowing participants to savor authentic Mexican cuisine and recharge after the morning’s adventure.

With its beautiful setting and opportunity to unwind, Playa Norte provides the perfect complement to the exhilarating whale shark experience.

Getting There and Back

Participants will be picked up from their hotels in the Akumal and Puerto Aventuras areas and transported to the departure point for the whale shark excursion. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes.

Once at the port, the group will board the boat and set sail into the Caribbean Sea. The journey to the whale shark viewing area takes approximately 1 hour. During the trip, participants can enjoy:

1. Breathtaking views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters.

2. The opportunity to spot other marine life, such as dolphins or sea turtles.

3. A refreshing breeze and the sound of the waves.

4. Snacks and beverages provided on the boat.

After the snorkeling experience, the group will return to the port and be transported back to their hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Day to Spot Whale Sharks?

The best time to spot whale sharks is typically between mid-morning and early afternoon when the animals feed near the surface. Their activity levels are highest during these hours, increasing the chance of sightings.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour company provides high-quality gear included in the tour price. Using the provided equipment ensures proper fit and function for the whale shark encounter.

Are There Any Additional Charges or Optional Activities?

Participants can rent a wetsuit for an additional fee. There are no other optional activities mentioned, but the port fee and whale shark area fee of $15 USD per person are required. Payment must be made in cash.

What if I’m Not a Strong Swimmer?

If you’re not a strong swimmer, the tour company provides life jackets and offers guidance from the bilingual guide. They also limit group size, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for participants of all swimming abilities.

Can I Take Underwater Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take underwater photos and videos during the tour. The tour provides snorkeling gear, including a mask, and you’re allowed to bring your own camera or GoPro to capture the experience with the whale sharks in the Caribbean Sea.

Recap

This whale shark tour from Akumal offers an unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside the gentle giants of the Caribbean Sea.

With a maximum of 10 participants, the intimate experience allows you to fully learn about the natural wonder.

The tour also includes a visit to the picturesque Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, making for a well-rounded and enriching excursion led by knowledgeable bilingual guides.

You can check if your dates are available here: