WHALE SHARKS
June – Mid-September
Whale shark season has just opened!
From June to mid-September 2026, the whale sharks are back off Isla Mujeres. The best dates sell out first — book your spot now.
Come live a unique experience, from June to mid-September, swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world! This incredible adventure will immerse you in their natural habitat and allow you to observe these giants of the seas up close.
Having your expert guide in the water with you allows them to help you position yourself to see the animal and assist you during this unforgettable experience.
Your day itinerary
Early morning departure
We pick you up at your hotel, comfortably seated in our air-conditioned van. A light breakfast in Cancun will set you up nicely for this day of adventure.
Navigation to the whale sharks
Aboard our comfortable boat, we head out to sea. Our passionate guides share fascinating information about these extraordinary creatures during navigation.
Swimming with whale sharks
When the captain finds the specimens, we position the boat upstream. You jump in pairs, always with your guide, to swim with these giants. The animal approaches, mouth open, as it filters plankton. Guaranteed thrills!
Snorkeling on the coral reef
After this encounter, we'll explore the crystal-clear waters above the coral reef, where you'll have the chance to observe a multitude of tropical fish.
Relaxation at Playa Norte
To end in style, we head to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Relaxation and delicious meal prepared by our captain.
Recommendations to prepare your day
Sun protection
Sunscreen use is prohibited (even biodegradable). Bring a rash guard or t-shirt to protect yourself.
Clothing
Opt for comfortable clothes, sunglasses, flip-flops, swimsuit and towel.
Food & drinks
Guacamole, ceviche, sandwich, as well as water, sodas and beer are included.
Seasickness
If you're prone to seasickness, don't forget to take medication before departure.
Important
We cannot guarantee the encounter, as they live in their natural environment. If impossible, we'll head to Isla Contoy for an unforgettable snorkeling session.
Facts about whale sharks
Harmless
They feed on plankton and are harmless to humans.
Life expectancy
These majestic creatures can live between 70 and 100 years.
Size and weight
They can reach up to 12 meters long and weigh several tons.
What's included in your day
All-inclusive excursion from Playa del Carmen — no hidden fees
Air-conditioned transport
Pick-up at your Playa del Carmen hotel and return in a private air-conditioned van.
Light breakfast
Breakfast served in Cancún before boarding the boat.
Comfortable boat
Fast boat with an experienced local captain and complete safety equipment.
Snorkeling equipment
Mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket provided and disinfected.
French-speaking guide in the water
Your guide enters the water with you (groups of 2 + 1 guide) for positioning and safety.
Multiple swim sessions
Several water entries to maximize your chances of observation and photos.
Coral reef snorkeling
Bonus session on a colorful reef teeming with tropical fish and turtles.
Lunch at Playa Norte
Fresh meal prepared by the captain on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Drinks on board
Water, sodas and Mexican beer included throughout the day.
Insurance and taxes
Maritime insurance, port taxes and marine park fees included in the price.
Not included: sunscreen (prohibited, bring a rash guard or UV t-shirt), guide & captain tips.
Details & booking
3600 pesosDuration
Full day
Group
10 people max
Season
June to September
Included: air-conditioned van transport, French-speaking guide, meals.
Swimming with Whale Sharks in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know
Swimming with whale sharks in Mexico is a one-of-a-kind experience. Every year, from June to September, these giants of the sea migrate to the warm waters off Isla Mujeres and the Riviera Maya, giving swimmers the chance to observe the largest fish in the world in its natural habitat.
Our excursion from Playa del Carmen takes you straight to the whale shark concentration zones. With an experienced French-speaking guide, you'll swim safely alongside these majestic creatures that can reach up to 18 meters long.
Whale Shark Excursion from the Riviera Maya
The excursion to swim with whale sharks in the Riviera Maya includes transport from your hotel, the crossing by fast boat, several swim sessions with the whale sharks, a break on the paradise beach of Playa Norte, and lunch. Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 people to guarantee an intimate experience.
The whale shark season in Mexico runs from June to September 2026. We recommend booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly during the high season (July-August).
Whale Shark Period and Season in Mexico
The ideal time to observe whale sharks in Mexico is from mid-June to mid-September. Peak activity is in July and August, when plankton concentrations attract groups of dozens of whale sharks. The 2026 Mexico whale shark season promises to be exceptional.
Why Choose Bubbles Diving to Swim with Whale Sharks?
Our whale shark excursion stands out for its 100% French-speaking guidance, intimate groups, and a respectful approach to the animal. Unlike mass tours, we limit each trip to 10 participants to minimize stress on the animals and maximize your time in the water.
Our guides are PADI-certified and trained in responsible observation protocols. You'll receive a complete briefing on whale shark behavior, the swimming techniques to follow, and safety guidelines before each entry into the water.
Snorkeling with Whale Sharks: What's Included
Snorkeling with whale sharks is accessible to all swimmers, even beginners. The excursion includes: round-trip transport from Playa del Carmen or Cancún, complete snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, life jacket), lunch on the beach, drinks, and underwater photos.
After the swim sessions with the whale sharks, you'll enjoy a swimming break at Playa Norte, voted among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, followed by a snorkeling session on a coral reef vibrant with life.
Whale Sharks 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 whale shark season open?+
Yes! The 2026 season officially opened on June 1st and runs until mid-September. Peak observation is expected between mid-July and mid-August, with an encounter rate close to 100% during this period. July and August weekends sell out very fast: we recommend booking at least 3 weeks in advance.
What is the schedule for the whale shark excursion from Playa del Carmen?+
Pick-up at your Playa del Carmen hotel between 5:30 and 6:00 am (very early departure to reach the observation zone at opening). Breakfast and boarding in Cancún around 7:30 am. Navigation and whale shark observation from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Reef snorkeling and lunch at Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres) from 1:00 to 3:30 pm. Return to Playa del Carmen around 6:30 pm. Allow about 12 to 13 hours door to door.
What is included in the all-inclusive excursion?+
Everything is included in the price: round-trip air-conditioned transport from Playa del Carmen, breakfast in Cancún, boat with a local captain, complete snorkeling equipment, French-speaking guide in the water, several swim sessions with the sharks, coral reef snorkeling, fresh lunch at Playa Norte, drinks (water, sodas, beer), maritime insurance, and marine park taxes. No extras to pay on site.
What are the 2026 rates?+
Three options to choose from: Standard 3,600 pesos/person (≈€175) with transport from Playa del Carmen, Group 6+ 3,200 pesos/person (≈€160), and Without transport 2,900 pesos/person (≈€143) if you meet directly in Cancún. Payment by credit card, cash (pesos, dollars or euros), or transfer on arrival.
When is the best time to swim with whale sharks?+
The season runs from mid-May to mid-September. Peak observation is in July-August when hundreds of whale sharks gather off Isla Mujeres. In June and September, conditions are excellent with fewer people on site — ideal for a more intimate experience.
Are whale sharks dangerous?+
Not at all. The whale shark is the largest fish in the world (up to 18 meters) but completely harmless. It feeds exclusively on plankton and small fish that it filters with its giant mouth. No attack has ever been recorded. It's a peaceful giant, curious and impressive to observe.
Do you need to know how to dive to swim with whale sharks?+
No. Observation is done only by snorkeling (fins, mask, snorkel) at the surface, with a mandatory life jacket. You just need to know how to swim and be comfortable in the water. No diving certification required. Accessible from age 5 (children stay on board with a parent if too young to jump in).
Is there an observation guarantee?+
From mid-June to mid-August, the encounter rate is close to 100%. Local captains are in constant radio contact to locate the shark groups. In case of exceptional absence (weather, animals not present), we offer either a free rescheduling to another date or an alternative excursion to Isla Contoy with premium snorkeling.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Free cancellation up to 48h before the excursion. Cancellation due to weather (captain's decision for your safety): rescheduling or full refund, your choice. 30% deposit at booking, balance payable on the day of the excursion.
How do I book my whale shark excursion?+
The easiest way: a WhatsApp message to +52 984 235 7655 and we'll hold your date within a few hours. You can also fill out the contact form or write to us by email. No online payment needed to book — just your name, desired date, and number of participants.
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