Boat Tour for Swimming with Whale Sharks Near Isla Mujeres and Cancun
by Isla Fun Tours
Overview
This six-hour boat tour runs from May to September and focuses on swimming near whale sharks in their natural habitat around Isla Mujeres and Cancun. The boat is 32 feet long and provides a stable ride even in choppy waters. The crew aims to find whale sharks, but sightings cannot be guaranteed since the animals are wild, not fed, and not trained. The tour includes snorkeling gear, a light lunch, snacks, bottled water, and carbonated beverages. Alcoholic drinks are not included. Sunscreen is prohibited in the whale shark area to protect the environment, so guests should wear long-sleeve shirts. Transportation on Isla Mujeres to the boat is not included. GoPro footage of the swim can be purchased separately. The tour is not recommended for those prone to seasickness. An environmental tax and dock fee must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Whale-Shark Snorkeling
From June to September, hundreds of whale sharks gather on the north side of Isla Mujeres, creating the largest known congregation of these fish. After approximately a 50-minute boat ride, participants arrive at the whale shark area to snorkel and swim alongside the sharks. Swimming is done two people at a time, always accompanied by a certified guide. The plan is to enter the water twice, but this depends on sea conditions, the number of sharks present, and individual swimming ability. The whale sharks are wild and not fed or caged, so sightings cannot be guaranteed despite a high success rate.
360 min
Meeting point
From Isla Mujeres: Black Pearl dock in downtown, behind Perla Negra Store. From Cancun: Punta Sam Ferry terminal
End point
From Isla Mujeres: Black Pearl dock in downtown, behind Perla Negra Store. From Cancun: Punta Sam Ferry terminal
Languages
Cancellation policy
- Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.
Additional info
More things to do in Isla Mujeres
- Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour: Lighthouse, Underwater Museum & Manchones Coral Reef
- Isla Mujeres 3-Hour VIP Semiprivate Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Museum and Reefs
- Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour at the Underwater Museum and El Farito Reef