Apparently we have to leave at this ungodly hour because this is the best time to see these elusive denizens of the sea before the area “gets very crowded.”
We’ve been told that this is an “experience of a lifetime,” and something that shouldn’t be missed. This is no ordinary snorkeling trip. We’re about to frolic with the legendary whale shark – the largest fish on the planet – in their watery world. Measuring up to 40 ft. and weighing up to 15 tons, we’re also told that their mouths can extend up to five feet when open.
“Just follow my instructions once we’re out there,” he tells us. “We’ll be holding hands and once we’re in the water I’ll be holding two of you at a time. You have nothing to be afraid of so just stay with me and do exactly as I tell you and I’ll take you as close as I can.”
“They don’t eat humans, they eat plankton,” he adds. “Just stay away from their tails so they don’t hit you when they turn around. That would definitely hurt. And don’t make any sudden movements.”
Seriously?
We’re off in one of the many boats lined up along the dock and, after a bumpy 45 minute ride out into the middle of the ocean, we get to “the spot,” where sure enough, we’re surrounded by scores of huge grey beasts, speckled with white dots that gleam in the early sunlight.
They take no notice of us as they gracefully glide around our boat, accompanied by hundreds of small shimmering fish.
As promised, Jesus grabs us by the hand and leads us in a watery waltz around these magnificent creatures. After about 10 minutes he signals us to return to the boat so that he can “escort” two more snorkelers onto the oceanic stage.
After we’ve done this three of four times for a total of about 45 minutes, it’s time to head back to Cancun and I feel a sort of sadness at having to leave my newly-found friends.
Once back on the boat we find that about 20 other boats have circled around us. It’s gotten too crowded for comfort and I can’t help but feel sorry for the whale sharks and the dent this audience is making in their carefree existence.
I’m grateful for my sea-worthy constitution – and for the amazing adventure that nature has just afforded me. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If You Go
- Whale sharks can be seen from May – September, although they are most prevalent in July and August.
- Tours can be booked through your hotel, or directly at the dock at Punta Sam or Isla Holbox.
How amazing to enjoy this experience. It's also very sad that so many people are crowding into this area at the same time. I feel sorry for the ones that got sea sick, cause that would probably be me.
It was awesome. I'd do it again in a heartbeat, although I did feel sorry for the creatures…and I mean the whale sharks, not the other passengers. LOL.
I love swimming with whale sharks. They truly are the most gentle of giants, though I've seen them plough into people just because they are busy eating! I also love Manta Rays…and just about everything else in the ocean. My favorite operator is Solo Buceo! It means, Only Diving, but their snorkel trips out of Cancun are fabulous! So glad you were able to do this….even though it is getting far too crowded out there.
I'm anxious to go back and do it again. I love being in the ocean, but I've only done snorkeling. I love everything about Cancun.
I find it remarkable that you and Tam have done this! Although I would love to see them,I would be scared out of my mind! They are gorgeous creatures! Thank you for sharing your post! Wow!
They really were gentle. I never felt threatened at all. I can't wait to do it again!
Between the fact that I would get seasick and I have panic attacks when snorkeling (with nary a whale shark in sight), I think I better skip that excursion — but I enjoyed reading about it!
Sure sounds like you'd better stick to just reading about it. LOL
I pride myself on being fearless, but five foot mouths made me wince. Good for you. So glad someone is able to tell me about this incredibe experience!
It does boggle the imagination, but once you take the plunge, I promise you, it's okay!
I felt like I was right there with you as I read your article and your photos are wonderful!
Thanks so much! I want to do it again. I highly suggest doing it.
Diving with whale sharks has been on my bucket list for a while. It's nice to know that they are in the Caribbean.
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