Oslob’s whale shark snorkeling and island hopping to Sumilon offer an exhilarating adventure for nature enthusiasts. With a near-guaranteed chance of encountering these gentle giants, visitors can enjoy the vibrant underwater world. After the thrilling snorkeling session, the tranquil shores of Sumilon Island beckon, providing an opportunity to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. This full-day excursion seamlessly blends excitement, relaxation, and the chance to witness the remarkable coexistence of man and whale shark. Whether seeking an adrenaline-filled experience or a serene escape, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Full-day tour combining whale shark snorkeling and island hopping to Sumilon, with a 99% chance of encountering the gentle giants.
- Snorkeling with whale sharks lasts for 2 hours, providing ample time for observation and capturing the experience.
- Explore Sumilon Island, featuring a white sandbar, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, after the whale shark encounter.
- Comprehensive amenities and inclusions, such as transportation, snorkeling equipment, insurance, and meals, ensure a hassle-free experience.
- Participants must be at least 7 years old and in good health, with certain restrictions for older adults.
Tour Overview
As part of this Tour Overview, the tour offers a full-day excursion that combines the thrilling experience of Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling with the scenic island hopping to Sumilon Island.
The price starts from £87.57 per person, and the tour lasts approximately 14 hours. The group size is limited to 12 participants, and the tour is available in English and Japanese.
Customers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Pickup and drop-off locations include Cebu City, Mactan, and Oslob.
Whale Shark Snorkeling
The snorkeling experience with the whale sharks is the highlight of this tour. Swimmers have a 99% chance of encountering these magnificent creatures, which can exceed 10 meters in length.
The snorkeling lasts for 2 hours, providing ample time to observe the whale sharks in their natural habitat. The tour includes:
- Snorkel masks and life jackets
- Latest model GoPro rental for capturing the experience
- Insurance coverage
- Access to clean shower and bathroom facilities
Participants must be at least 7 years old and in good health, as pregnant women, those with epilepsy or high blood pressure aren’t permitted.
Proper preparation, such as bringing sunscreen and a waterproof camera, is essential for an unforgettable whale shark encounter.
Island Hopping to Sumilon
Sumilon Island, known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, is the destination for the island hopping portion of the tour.
Highlights include a mysterious white sandbar that appears at low tide, as well as colorful fish and shining coral reefs.
The scenic journey to Sumilon Island takes approximately 2 hours.
During the island hopping, visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty and marvel at its diverse underwater ecosystem.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as life jackets and snorkeling gear, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience throughout the island exploration.
Snorkeling Experience Details
During the snorkeling experience, participants have the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, the only place in the world where feeding wild whale sharks is allowed.
The encounter rate is an impressive 99%, and the duration of snorkeling is 2 hours. Whale sharks can exceed 10 meters in length, providing a powerful experience for participants.
The tour includes the following:
- Snorkel masks
- Life jackets
- GoPro rental (latest model HERO12)
- Insurance
Participants can expect to see colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs during their snorkeling adventure.
Exploring Sumilon Island
After exploring the snorkeling experience with whale sharks, visitors then have the opportunity to explore Sumilon Island, known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life.
The tour includes scenic views during the 2-hour journey to Sumilon Island. Highlights of the island include a mysterious white sandbar that appears at low tide, colorful fish, and shining coral reefs.
Visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and unique landscape. The tour provides a well-rounded experience, combining the excitement of swimming with whale sharks and the tranquility of exploring a picturesque island destination.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities and services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Guests will receive a guide certified by the Philippines Department of Tourism, as well as insurance coverage and transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour also provides:
- Life jackets, snorkeling equipment, and towel rental
- Access to clean shower and bathroom facilities
- Breakfast and lunch
- Gratuities
Plus, the tour includes entrance fees, a GoPro rental, and a scenic journey to Sumilon Island.
With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the snorkeling adventure and island exploration without worrying about logistics.
Important Restrictions
There are some important restrictions to be aware of for this Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling and Island Hopping tour.
The activity isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, or high blood pressure. Participants 76 years and older also won’t be provided insurance unless they’ve personal coverage.
Guests should bring essential items like sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sandals, drinks, sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and a waterproof bag.
Full names and dates of birth of all participants are required for insurance, along with a photo ID (passport) image of one representative during booking.
What to Bring and Requirements
Preparation is key for a smooth and enjoyable Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling and Island Hopping experience. Guests should come prepared with the following essentials:
- Swimwear, towel, and sandals for the water activities
- Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from the sun
- A waterproof camera or bag to capture underwater memories
- Drinks and snacks to stay hydrated and energized
- Photo ID (passport) for the required insurance and booking information
Plus, participants must provide their full names and dates of birth for insurance purposes.
Following these simple guidelines will ensure a worry-free and memorable day exploring the wonders of Oslob and Sumilon Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend My Stay on Sumilon Island?
Yes, you can extend your stay on Sumilon Island. The tour includes a visit to the island, but you’re free to stay longer and explore the area further at your own expense.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Gopro Rental?
The tour offers a GoPro rental, but there’s no mention of an option to upgrade it. Customers can’t request a specific GoPro model, as the rental includes the latest available HERO12. It’s a standard inclusion in the tour package.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment for this tour. However, the tour includes snorkeling masks and life jackets, so you don’t need to bring your own if you don’t want to.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
The tour has a limited group size of up to 12 participants. There’s no minimum group size requirement, so solo travelers or small groups can join this excursion without any issues.
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, private group bookings are available for this tour. The group size is limited to 12 participants, so you can book the full group for a personalized experience.
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Recap
The Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling & Island Hopping to Sumilon tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With a high chance of sighting and ample time for snorkeling, visitors can enjoy the vibrant marine ecosystem. The tour’s seamless combination of adventure and relaxation on the stunning Sumilon Island makes it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.