Puerto Princesa: WhaleShark Watching Yacht Tour with Lunch

Travelers seeking a memorable day with nature’s gentle giants will find this WhaleShark Watching Yacht Tour in Puerto Princesa a compelling option. Offered by D Best Dive Sites Expeditions, this half-day adventure combines eco-friendly whale shark spotting, snorkeling, and a relaxing buffet lunch on a sleek catamaran. It’s an experience that promises both the thrill of seeing these shy, majestic creatures in their natural environment and the comfort of a well-organized tour.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with responsible wildlife viewing. Seeing whale sharks in the wild is a rare privilege, and the tour’s emphasis on strict guidelines ensures that this encounter doesn’t harm the animals or their habitat. Plus, the luxurious yacht makes the whole day feel special without sacrificing practicality.

One consideration for travelers: sightings are not guaranteed, since whale sharks are wild animals, and nature can be unpredictable. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange transportation to the starting point. This tour suits eco-minded travelers, snorkelers, and those who enjoy a mix of wildlife viewing and relaxing boat time—ideal for those who want a respectful yet immersive experience.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are in their natural habitat, emphasizing responsible observation.
• Luxury yacht and buffet lunch add comfort and value to the experience.
• Sighting success depends on luck and timing, not guaranteed.
• Small group setting (up to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Snorkeling gear is included, making it easier to enjoy underwater views.
• Strict guidelines protect whalesharks and their environment, reinforcing eco-conscious travel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Puerto Princesa WhaleShark Yacht Tour

This tour offers a unique chance to observe whale sharks, locally known as “butanding,” in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa. The experience is designed to provide a balance of nature, comfort, and responsible tourism. Running around 6 hours and priced at $337 per person, it is certainly a premium option, but one that many travelers find worthwhile due to the overall experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect and why it might be worth considering.

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at the Puerto Princesa Baywalk Pier, a straightforward meeting point. You’ll need to arrange your own transport here, as hotel pickups are not included. The journey to the bay takes about 15 minutes, a short transfer that gets you to the boat comfortably. The pier is well-signposted, and the crew often has a visible logo to help you spot the group.

The Yacht: Comfort and Convenience

Once aboard, you’ll be welcomed onto a luxurious catamaran yacht designed to provide a smooth ride and ample space for relaxation. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, which is included in the price, so you won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer specific equipment. The yacht’s layout offers scenic views and plenty of shaded areas to rest, making it suitable for those who prefer a comfortable vantage point while waiting for sightings.

Whale Shark Watching: The Main Event

The core of this tour is spotting whale sharks in Honda Bay. These gentle giants are primarily passing through the area, making sightings a matter of luck and the crew’s expertise. According to reviews, the crew “will do their best” to locate the sharks, and many guests have appreciated the effort, though some note that sightings are not always guaranteed. The local government enforces strict guidelines to protect the whalesharks, which means boats maintain a safe distance and visitors are instructed not to touch or feed the animals—an important aspect that underscores the tour’s eco-conscious approach.

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Snorkeling and Underwater Experience

Snorkeling is a highlight, allowing you to see the vibrant marine life in Honda Bay. Equipment is provided, and the crew typically assists with gear fitting. While whale sharks are the star, the bay’s coral reefs and fish populations are a bonus for snorkelers. Be prepared to share the water with other marine creatures, and remember that patience is key—sometimes the best moments come from simply observing the water and staying alert.

The Buffet Lunch

After a good amount of time spent searching and snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on board. The meal is usually a variety of local and international dishes, designed to keep you energized for the day. Many guests mention that the lunch is well-prepared, offering a relaxing break with scenic views. It’s a great way to unwind and reflect on the morning’s adventures while still floating in the bay.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up after approximately 6 hours with a return to the Puerto Princesa Baywalk Pier. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you get more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions about the local environment, marine protection efforts, or other Puerto Princesa highlights.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience distinctive is its combination of luxury, eco-responsibility, and authentic wildlife encounters. Unlike rushed, crowded tours, this one emphasizes responsible watching, ensuring that the whalesharks are not disturbed and that all guidelines are followed. The small group size enhances the intimacy, making it more likely you’ll have a memorable, less commercialized experience.

The price point reflects the comfort, guided experience, and quality of the yacht. While it’s a premium spend, many reviewers feel it’s justified given the quality of the boat, the delicious buffet, and the personalized service.

Informed Expectations and Practical Tips

While the tour aims to maximize your chances of seeing whale sharks, it’s important to go into it with realistic expectations. Since these creatures are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed, and weather or shark migration patterns can influence the success rate. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera and sunscreen, as much of the experience is outdoors and exposed to the sun.

Since hotel pickup is not included, plan to arrive at the meeting point a little early. The tour runs based on availability, and checking times in advance ensures you won’t miss out. Also, consider that this tour might not be suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness, as the boat can sway and the activity involves being in open water.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This whale shark tour is perfect for travelers who value responsible wildlife observation and want a mix of adventure and comfort. If you’re interested in seeing nature in its purest form, appreciate good food, and enjoy small-group atmospheres, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s especially ideal for snorkelers and those eager to learn from a local guide about the marine environment.

However, if you prefer guaranteed sightings or are on a tight budget, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for the possibility of missing out on whale sharks altogether. Still, even without a sighting, the experience of being on a well-equipped yacht in Honda Bay is a rewarding day out.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour starts at Puerto Princesa Baywalk Pier, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation here.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including travel, snorkeling, whale shark watching, and lunch.

Are whale shark sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on the presence of whale sharks in Honda Bay, which is a natural, unpredictable occurrence.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. All snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The activity is mainly for those comfortable in open water and with some swimming ability; it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or very young children.

What is the group size?
This is a small-group tour limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can pregnant women join?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, given the nature of the boat ride and outdoor activity.

What safety guidelines are followed?
The tour strictly adheres to local regulations that protect whalesharks, including maintaining a safe distance and avoiding touching or feeding the animals.

This Puerto Princesa whale shark yacht tour offers a well-rounded, responsible way to see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creatures. It combines luxury and adventure with the important goal of wildlife conservation. While it demands some planning and patience, many travelers find the experience unforgettable, especially those who love snorkeling, marine life, and well-organized small-group tours.

If you’re looking for a specialized, eco-conscious adventure that emphasizes quality over quantity, this tour could be the highlight of your trip to Puerto Princesa. Just remember to pack your patience and your sense of wonder—those gentle giants might just show up when you least expect, making it all the more exciting.

You can check availability for your dates here: