Sumbawa, an island in Indonesia, offers an extraordinary opportunity to swim alongside the gentle giants of the sea – whale sharks. This tour provides a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, an experience that is both thrilling and educational. With convenient booking options, inclusive amenities, and a well-organized schedule, the tour ensures a seamless adventure. Whether one chooses to snorkel or dive, the tour promises an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent marine mammals. As the gateway to this unique natural wonder, Sumbawa invites adventurers to embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- The tour is priced at around Rp967.19 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing excellent value and flexibility.
- The main activity is swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa, with participants able to choose between snorkeling or diving during the whale shark viewing.
- The tour includes a comprehensive package with snorkeling equipment, mineral water, bread, underwater camera, guide, boat, village entrance fee, and airport/harbor pickups.
- The tour schedule is well-organized, with a departure from the hotel at 3:00 AM and a return by 10:30 AM after a coffee break.
- The tour provides clear instructions on the meeting point at the harbor, ensuring a smooth boarding process for the fishing boat.
Pricing and Booking
The Sumbawa whale shark tour is priced at around ₩67.19 per person, and customers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This allows for maximum flexibility in planning the whale shark swimming adventure.
The all-inclusive tour covers snorkeling equipment, mineral water, bread, an underwater camera, a guide, a boat, the village entrance fee, and airport/harbor pickup, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With these convenient booking options and inclusions, the Sumbawa whale shark tour provides excellent value for money and makes it easy for travelers to secure their spot on this remarkable wildlife encounter.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in East Nusa Tenggara.
Activity Details
Swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa is the main activity on this tour, offering visitors a chance to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.
Participants can choose to snorkel or dive during the whale shark viewing, providing different perspectives and experiences.
The tour also includes a Sumbawa whale shark exploration, allowing guests to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The duration of the tour is one day, and it includes a range of inclusions such as snorkeling equipment, mineral water, bread, an underwater camera, a guide, a boat, a village entrance fee, and airport and harbor pickups.
Included in the Tour
Aside from the whale shark swimming activities, the tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. These encompass snorkeling equipment, mineral water, bread, and an underwater camera for capturing memorable moments.
Plus, a knowledgeable guide, a boat, a village entrance fee, as well as airport and harbor pickups are all part of the inclusive package.
The guided tour provides a comprehensive experience, ensuring that participants can fully enjoy the thrilling encounter with the majestic whale sharks without having to worry about logistical details.
With these inclusions, the Sumbawa whale shark tour offers a seamless and enjoyable adventure for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Tour Schedule
The tour schedule begins with an early morning departure from the hotel at 3:00 AM, followed by a 300-meter walk to the harbor.
At 5:00 AM, participants depart the harbor on a fishing boat, leading to a 6:00 AM briefing with the guide before the whale shark swimming activities commence.
After the swimming session, the group enjoys coffee and returns to the hotel, arriving by 10:30 AM.
The full-day tour provides ample time for participants to enjoy the thrilling experience of swimming with the gentle giants of the sea. With a well-organized schedule, the tour ensures a seamless and memorable adventure in the waters of Sumbawa.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point
A day before the tour, the guide will share their phone number to arrange the meeting point at the harbor. This is where you will gather to begin the adventure.
The guide will provide clear instructions on the exact location and time to meet, ensuring a smooth start to the day’s activities. Meeting at the harbor allows the group to board the fishing boat together and depart on time for the whale shark swimming session.
Cancellation Policy
Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance without incurring any penalties. This flexible policy provides peace of mind for travelers who may need to change their plans at the last minute.
The tour operator understands that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and they want to ensure a hassle-free experience for their customers. By offering this free cancellation option, they demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility.
This policy is particularly beneficial for those who are booking the tour well in advance, as it provides the flexibility to adjust their plans if necessary.
What to Bring
Participants should bring a swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, and any personal items they may need for the day-long excursion.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, but it’s recommended to pack the following additional items:
- Sun protection, such as sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, to shield against the tropical sun.
- An underwater camera or waterproof phone case to capture the memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks.
- A small backpack or dry bag to keep personal belongings safe and dry during the boat ride and water activities.
Staying hydrated is also important, so it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle or purchase additional drinks on the trip.
Getting There
The tour departs from the harbor in Sumbawa, located approximately 300 meters from most hotels in the area.
Guests are advised to arrive at the harbor by 3:00 AM to begin the day’s activities.
From there, the group will depart on a fishing boat at 5:00 AM, arriving at the whale shark site around 6:00 AM.
Before the swimming activities commence, there will be a brief safety briefing with the guide.
The return trip to the hotel is scheduled for 8:00 AM, with guests arriving back around 10:30 AM.
The guide’s phone number will be shared the day before to coordinate the meeting point at the harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do if I Get Seasick During the Tour?
If one gets seasick during the tour, they should notify the guide immediately. The guide can provide motion sickness medication and ensure the individual is comfortable for the duration of the boat trip.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Wet Suit?
Participants can bring their own snorkeling gear or wetsuit if they prefer. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but guests are welcome to use their own if they have it. This allows for a more comfortable and personalized experience.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
There is no minimum age requirement to participate in this whale shark swimming activity. Children are welcome, though parental supervision is required for minors to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the experience.
Can I Take Photographs of the Whale Sharks?
Yes, participants can take photographs of the whale sharks during the tour. The tour includes an underwater camera to capture memorable photos of the encounter with these gentle giants.
Is There a Limit to the Number of People in the Group?
The tour group size is limited to ensure a quality experience. Typically, there are no more than 10 people per group, though the exact number may vary. This helps maintain a safe and personalized encounter with the whale sharks.
Recap
Swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa is an exceptional natural experience.
The tour is reasonably priced, with convenient booking and flexible cancellation policies. Customers can choose between snorkeling or diving, and the all-inclusive package covers essential equipment, transportation, and fees.
The well-organized schedule ensures a seamless adventure, allowing guests to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying a range of included amenities.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Whale Watching Tours in East Nusa Tenggara
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