Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience

The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience in Cebu, Philippines, offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close. Visitors can embark on a full-day tour, where they’ll have the chance to swim alongside the majestic creatures for 30 minutes, learn about responsible interaction, and explore the historic Oslob Cuartel. With round-trip transportation, meals, and snorkeling gear included, this well-organized experience prioritizes both safety and marine conservation. However, the true allure lies in the awe-inspiring moment when these colossal creatures emerge from the depths, captivating all who witness their graceful movements.

Key Points

• An 8-10 hour activity that allows visitors to swim alongside whale sharks in their natural habitat in Oslob, Cebu for €65.90 per person.
• Includes orientation, 30 minutes of swimming, and a visit to the Oslob Cuartel, with equipment such as life jackets, snorkeling gear, breakfast, and lunch provided.
• Offers seven pickup locations across Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu, with early morning pickup and round-trip transportation of approximately 3 hours each way.
• Focuses on safety and responsible interaction with whale sharks, with guidelines such as maintaining a distance of at least 4 meters and no touching or feeding.
• Whale shark sightings are virtually guaranteed, with an average waiting time of 2-3 hours during peak season, and the best sightings typically occurring between 6 AM and 10 AM.

Activity Overview

The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience allows visitors to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

The activity lasts 8 to 10 hours and costs from €65.90 per person. There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.

The experience includes a brief orientation on interacting with the whale sharks, up to 30 minutes of swimming time, and a visit to the historic Oslob Cuartel.

All necessary equipment, such as life jackets and snorkeling gear, is provided, along with breakfast and lunch.

Itinerary and Transportation

For the Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience, participants can choose from 7 different pickup locations across Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu area.

The tour includes early morning pickup between 2:00am to 3:00am and round-trip car service, which takes approximately 3 hours each way. Participants will be dropped off at 7 different locations, including Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, and Cebu City.

The experience also includes a visit to the historic Oslob Cuartel and its coastal views. The tour is shared with guides, and transportation is provided to ensure a hassle-free experience for swimmers.

Experience Details

Upon arrival in Oslob, participants first receive a brief orientation on the rules and regulations for interacting with the whale sharks. This covers proper etiquette and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the magnificent whale sharks. The main activity involves swimming for up to 30 minutes in the natural habitat of the whale sharks. Afterward, the tour makes an additional stop at the Oslob Cuartel, a historic site offering picturesque coastal views. This well-rounded experience allows participants to fully enjoy the wonders of Oslob’s marine life and cultural heritage.

Activity	Duration	Regulations
Orientation	Brief	Proper etiquette and procedures
Whale Shark Swimming	Up to 30 minutes	In natural habitat
Visit Oslob Cuartel	–	Historic site, coastal views

Inclusions

This Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience includes a shared tour with knowledgeable guides.

The tour package covers the following:

• Whale Shark Swimming registration and fees
• Snorkeling gear, including a life jacket and mask
• Breakfast and lunch provided during the day
• Round-trip car service transportation from your hotel in Cebu City, Mactan, or Lapu-Lapu area

These inclusions ensure a hassle-free and immersive experience, allowing you to focus on the highlight of the day – swimming alongside the majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat.

Important Information

Travelers should bring a change of clothes, towel, and toiletries, as well as cash for any additional expenses. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are limited to Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu areas. While a whale shark sighting is guaranteed, visitors can expect an average waiting time of 2-3 hours during peak season.

What to Bring	Hotel Pickup/Drop-off	Whale Shark Sighting
Change of clothes	Limited to Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu	Guaranteed, but 2-3 hour wait during peak
Towel
Toiletries
Cash

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour provides 7 pickup locations across Cebu City, Mandaue City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu City, catering to the convenience of travelers.

The pickup options include:

• Mandaue City
• North Escario Street, Cebu City
• Talamban, Cebu City
• Banilad, Cebu City
• Mactan
• Lapu-Lapu City

After the whale shark swimming experience, the tour offers 7 drop-off locations, including Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, and Cebu City, ensuring a seamless end to the day’s adventure.

The round-trip car service takes approximately 3 hours each way, allowing ample time for the full experience.

Rules and Regulations

Prior to the whale shark swimming experience, participants undergo a brief orientation session on the rules and regulations for interacting with the gentle giants.

Swimmers are instructed to maintain a safe distance of at least 4 meters from the whale sharks and avoid touching them. Flash photography is prohibited to prevent distressing the animals. Feeding the whale sharks is strictly forbidden, as this can alter their natural feeding behavior.

Participants are also required to wear life jackets and snorkeling gear provided for their safety.

These guidelines ensure a responsible and eco-friendly encounter with the magnificent whale sharks of Oslob.

Sighting and Waiting Time

Whale shark sightings are virtually guaranteed on this tour, though visitors may expect an average waiting time of 2-3 hours during the peak season. This is due to the popularity of the experience and the need to manage visitor numbers to ensure the well-being of the whale sharks.

• Whale sharks are typically spotted between 6 AM and 10 AM, with the best sightings often occurring in the early morning hours.

• The number of visitors allowed in the water at any given time is limited, so there may be a queue to take your turn.

• Waiting times can vary depending on the number of visitors and the behavior of the whale sharks on the day.

• Guests are advised to be patient and enjoy the scenic coastal views while waiting for their chance to swim with these majestic creatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Refund Policy for Bad Weather?

There is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If the tour is cancelled due to bad weather on the day, you will receive a full refund.

Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Swim?

Yes, visitors can take pictures and videos during the swim with whale sharks. However, they should avoid using flash and maintain a safe distance from the animals to avoid disturbing them.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is generally no minimum age requirement for the whale shark swimming experience. However, children must be accompanied by an adult and must wear a life jacket during the activity.

How Do I Avoid Seasickness During the Boat Ride?

To avoid seasickness during the boat ride, one can take motion sickness medication beforehand, stay hydrated, look at the horizon, and avoid going below deck. Wearing seasickness wristbands or ginger supplements may also help alleviate symptoms.

Are There Any Medical Conditions That Would Prevent Me From Swimming?

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart issues, respiratory problems, or mobility limitations, may not be able to safely participate in swimming activities. It’s best to consult a doctor before booking the experience.

Recap

The Oslob Whale Shark Swimming Experience offers a chance to get up close with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. With a well-organized itinerary, round-trip transportation, and a focus on safety and conservation, it’s an unforgettable adventure that guarantees sightings while adhering to responsible interaction protocols. The tour’s comprehensive inclusions and clear rules make it a convenient and eco-conscious way to encounter these magnificent creatures in Cebu.