Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you snorkel alongside the magnificent whale sharks off the coast of Cancun and Riviera Maya. This personalized tour, limited to just 10 participants, promises an up-close encounter with these gentle giants while following strict safety guidelines. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll learn about the fascinating creatures and capture the memories with an optional GoPro rental. But the excitement doesn’t end there – a delicious beachfront lunch awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to refuel and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences.
Key Points
- A personalized whale shark snorkeling adventure with a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring a guided and safe experience.
- Comprehensive inclusions such as round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and bottled water, providing a hassle-free experience.
- Strong physical fitness and swimming ability required, with guidelines ensuring responsible interaction with whale sharks.
- Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, accommodating unexpected schedule changes.
- Optional GoPro rental available for capturing underwater memories of the whale shark encounter.
Experience Overview
The Whale Shark Snorkeling Experience offers an unforgettable adventure for visitors to Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Rated with a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour allows a maximum of 10 participants to snorkel with these gentle giants.
Priced from $229 per person, the experience includes round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, a professional bilingual staff, and a beachfront lunch.
With a start time of 8:00 am, the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and requires a strong physical fitness level.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
This unique opportunity to encounter whale sharks in their natural habitat is sure to create lasting memories.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Punta Sam.
Inclusions
The Whale Shark Snorkeling Experience includes round-trip transportation from most hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. In addition, snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the adventure. The tour is led by professional, bilingual staff who will guide you every step of the way. Lunch at a beachfront restaurant, along with bottled water and soda on board, are all included in the price. Gratuities are also covered, and a GoPro rental is available for those who want to capture the memories. The experience also includes a $30 USD dock tax, payable at the pier.
| Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transportation | Snorkeling gear and life jacket |
| Professional, bilingual staff | Lunch at a beachfront restaurant |
| Bottled water and soda on board | Gratuities |
| $30 USD dock tax | GoPro rental available |
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points are available for this tour, with the start time set at 08:00 am.
The pickup time varies based on the location of your hotel. You’ll receive your confirmation details at the time of booking, including the exact pickup time and location.
This tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
The tour provider will arrange for your round-trip transportation from most hotels in Cancun and Riviera Maya, so you can sit back, relax, and get ready for an unforgettable whale shark snorkeling adventure.
Health and Safety Guidelines
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart problems.
A minimum age of 8 years old and a maximum weight of 250 lbs are required. Participants must have a strong physical fitness level and be able to swim.
The tour involves snorkeling and interaction with whale sharks, so it’s crucial that guests are comfortable in the water and can handle the physical demands.
Safety is the top priority, and the tour staff will provide guidance and support throughout the experience to ensure everyone’s well-being.
Cancellation and Flexibility
With flexibility in mind, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing travelers to plan with confidence. This policy ensures that unexpected changes in schedules or plans won’t disrupt the whale shark adventure. Alternatively, a "Reserve now, pay later" option is available, providing additional convenience for booking.
| Cancellation Policy | Flexibility |
|---|---|
| Free cancellation up to 24 hours before | Allows for changes in plans |
| Reserve now, pay later option | Convenient booking process |
| No penalties for last-minute cancellations | Hassle-free experience |
| Accommodates unexpected schedule changes | Stress-free planning |
| Prioritizes customer satisfaction | Personalized travel experience |
This flexible approach caters to the needs of various travelers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable whale shark snorkeling experience.
Snorkeling With Whale Sharks
Gliding effortlessly through the turquoise waters, participants have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel alongside the gentle giants of the sea – the majestic whale sharks.
This guided experience allows visitors to observe these magnificent creatures up close, witnessing their graceful movements and colossal size.
To ensure a safe and responsible encounter, the tour follows a set of guidelines:
- Maintaining a respectful distance from the whale sharks.
- Avoiding sudden movements or contact with the animals.
- Refraining from feeding or touching the whale sharks.
- Adhering to the instructions provided by the experienced, bilingual staff.
This unforgettable adventure offers a chance to connect with the natural world and create lasting memories.
Lunch at Beachfront Restaurant
After the thrilling experience of snorkeling with the majestic whale sharks, participants enjoy a delightful lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
The restaurant boasts a stunning ocean view, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal.
The menu features a variety of local seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian options, catering to diverse tastes.
Participants can savor the fresh flavors while sipping on refreshing beverages, including bottled water and soda provided throughout the day.
This lunch break serves as a well-deserved respite, allowing travelers to refuel and reflect on the incredible encounter with the gentle giants of the sea.
GoPro Rental Option
For those who wish to capture their incredible encounter with the whale sharks, the tour offers a GoPro rental option. This add-on allows participants to document their memorable experience through high-quality, first-person footage.
The GoPro rental includes:
- A waterproof, durable camera that can withstand the marine environment.
- Mounting accessories to secure the camera to snorkeling gear or your body.
- Instruction on proper use and settings to ensure optimal video and photo quality.
- The opportunity to share your whale shark adventure with friends and family through stunning visual content.
The GoPro rental is available for an additional fee and can be booked in advance or on the day of the tour, subject to availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?
The only additional fee is a $30 USD dock tax payable at the pier. All other inclusions, such as transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and gratuities, are covered in the tour price.
Can I Choose My Own Pickup Location Within Cancun and Riviera Maya?
Yes, you can choose your own pickup location within Cancun and Riviera Maya. The tour offers multiple pickup points, and the pickup time varies based on your hotel’s location. This provides convenient access to the whale shark snorkeling experience.
What Happens if I Can’t Swim Well or Get Seasick During the Tour?
If travelers can’t swim well or get seasick, they should let the tour staff know. The tour company may not allow them to participate for safety reasons, but they can provide alternative options like staying on the boat.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Camera Instead?
Participants can bring their own snorkeling gear or camera, but it’s not required. The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment and a GoPro rental is available if desired. However, guests should ensure their gear is appropriate for the activity.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour to Operate?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. It’s open to individual travelers, and the maximum group size is 10 participants. The tour will operate regardless of the number of bookings.
The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable whale shark snorkeling adventure from Cancun and Riviera Maya. With personalized service, safety-focused guidance, and delectable beachside dining, this tour offers a thrilling and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. Capture the magic with a GoPro rental, and learn about the wonders of these gentle giants. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories in the stunning waters of the Mexican Caribbean.