Whale shark snorkel and diving in Mexico

[jnash1@worldbank.org]

Hi, we'll be in Akumal in July, at Grand Oasis Riviera Maya, and we're thinking about doing the whale shark snorkel. One option would be to do it with Blue Caribe, the on-site operation, but if there's a good reason to go with someone else, we could. A couple of questions: is it a sure bet that we'll actually get to swim with the whale sharks, and for how long? Would we have to wear life jackets? (I would imagine that would really preclude getting any good UW photos.) Does anyone have experience with this?

Apart from the whale sharks, we plan to do some diving pretty much every day. Any particularly good or bad experiences with Blue Caribe or another operation in Akumal?

Thanks for any information!

 

[CaptEsteban]

From Akumal, it will be a pretty long day to swim with the Whalesharks, but it can be done. You need to go to Cancun, or Isle Mujeres, & go out with one of their licensed charter boats that take people out to swim with the Whalesharks. Takes a little while to get out there & back. No one can guarantee a " sure encounter," but at the right time of season, it is VERY likely. You snorkle with them & wear snorkle vests , or life vests. No Scuba, & the Captains have restrictions & requirements. There is a dive shop on board here who will probably jump in with more info.