Whale Sharks

Swimming with whale sharks is a once in a lifetime opportunity you can experience during your Cancun vacation. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, measuring up to 40 feet. They are known as the gentle giants of the ocean because they are totally harmless and peaceful creatures. You can get right up close and personal to the amazing whale sharks during most of the summer months.

Whale Shark Facts
The whale shark is so recognizable because of the pattern on its back made up of creamy white spots and pale horizontal and vertical stripes. Because of this pattern it is often called the domino shark.

The whale shark swims with its wide mouth open, close to the surface of the water so it can just suck in the plankton as it swims along, and then closes its mouth to push all the unwanted water out of its fills so that only the plankton remains. The whale shark’s mouth can extend to 5ft when open!

Whale Shark Season in Cancun
Whale sharks are usually found in the nutrient-rich waters around the islands of Holbox and Contoy near Cancun. They are here from May until September, but mainly during the months of July and August. .For this reason, the 30th August has now been formally established as the Mexican Day of the Whale Shark.

Swimming with Whale Shark Tours
You can book tours to swim with the whale sharks either leaving from Cancun by boat from Punta Sam or you can take a trip to Isla Holbox by car and ferry and book a tour once you are there. Holbox is also sanctuary to thousands of wild species like dolphins, pelicans, turtles, flamingos and other exotic birds so you will have plenty to do while you are there. Take a look at our many recommended tour operators who will accompany you and provide their expertise and share their knowledge about the wonderful whale sharks.

If you would like to swim with a whale shark just remember there is nothing to fear… they feed exclusively on plankton and are therefore completely harmless to humans. The experience is truly amazing and one you will never forget.

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