Whale Shark Encounter
Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Whale Shark Observation
Once plentiful off the coast of Mexico, as well as the waters of the world's oceans, the whale sharks are now an endangered species and protected under international and Mexican law. And the sheltered Bay of La Paz is considered one of the best places in the world to observe these rare creatures up close in their natural environment.
After a van transfer from the port and a safety briefing, a boat will pick you up for a cruise out into the waters of La Paz Bay. Whale sharks are the world's largest species of fish, can reach lengths of nearly 40 feet, and can weigh in as much as 79,000 pounds. If conditions allow, you may have the opportunity to snorkel with them.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
The white spotted coloration of whale sharks makes these gentle giants easy to distinguish and when one is spotted, the captain will position the vessel to get the best possible view, and you can photograph the whales without disturbing them. A tip for photographing whale sharks is to make sure the camera is close to your eye at all times, as the two to three seconds it takes to position the camera might make all the difference.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Cruising out into the La Paz Bay, you can't help but marvel at the water's varying hues of green, blue, turquoise and sapphire.
Points of interest
Underwater Adventure
Whale Watching
Schedule
Special Notes
Due to governmental restrictions the tour might include some waiting time before being able to access the whale shark area. Therefore, the total tour time could vary and the wait could be up to 90 minutes.
Whale Shark regulations require guests to be at check point area 1 hour prior the shift. Once inside they will sail to the protected area and begin snorkeling with the whale shark. The instructor will take 1 guest or 2 guests at the time. Boats are shaded, without restrooms onboard.
Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, camera and biodegradable sunblock. Whale shark season runs annually from October to May, the exact starting date will be announced by local authorities. Whale shark spotting cannot be guaranteed since it is an open water activity. Fairly energetic swimming and ability to jump from the boat into the water is required; previous snorkeling experience is recommended. Snorkel time can depend on sea conditions and regulations set by the Mexican National Commission of Protected Natural Areas can limit the amount of participants that can be in the water at any given time. Those who are prone to seasickness should take proper precautions. A narrow ladder is used to get back on the boat. Pregnant women and/or guests with respiratory conditions, mobility limitations, neck or back conditions are not allowed to participate. Minimum age is 8.
Medical Restriction
Guests with recent surgeries, heart or respiratory problems and pregnant women will not be allowed to participate.
Exceptional Value
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Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Whale Shark Observation
Once plentiful off the coast of Mexico, as well as the waters of the world's oceans, the whale sharks are now an endangered species and protected under international and Mexican law. And the sheltered Bay of La Paz is considered one of the best places in the world to observe these rare creatures up close in their natural environment.
After a van transfer from the port and a safety briefing, a boat will pick you up for a cruise out into the waters of La Paz Bay. Whale sharks are the world's largest species of fish, can reach lengths of nearly 40 feet, and can weigh in as much as 79,000 pounds. If conditions allow, you may have the opportunity to snorkel with them.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
The white spotted coloration of whale sharks makes these gentle giants easy to distinguish and when one is spotted, the captain will position the vessel to get the best possible view, and you can photograph the whales without disturbing them. A tip for photographing whale sharks is to make sure the camera is close to your eye at all times, as the two to three seconds it takes to position the camera might make all the difference.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Cruising out into the La Paz Bay, you can't help but marvel at the water's varying hues of green, blue, turquoise and sapphire.
Points of interest
Underwater Adventure
Whale Watching
Schedule
Special Notes
Due to governmental restrictions the tour might include some waiting time before being able to access the whale shark area. Therefore, the total tour time could vary and the wait could be up to 90 minutes.
Whale Shark regulations require guests to be at check point area 1 hour prior the shift. Once inside they will sail to the protected area and begin snorkeling with the whale shark. The instructor will take 1 guest or 2 guests at the time. Boats are shaded, without restrooms onboard.
Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, camera and biodegradable sunblock. Whale shark season runs annually from October to May, the exact starting date will be announced by local authorities. Whale shark spotting cannot be guaranteed since it is an open water activity. Fairly energetic swimming and ability to jump from the boat into the water is required; previous snorkeling experience is recommended. Snorkel time can depend on sea conditions and regulations set by the Mexican National Commission of Protected Natural Areas can limit the amount of participants that can be in the water at any given time. Those who are prone to seasickness should take proper precautions. A narrow ladder is used to get back on the boat. Pregnant women and/or guests with respiratory conditions, mobility limitations, neck or back conditions are not allowed to participate. Minimum age is 8.
Medical Restriction
Guests with recent surgeries, heart or respiratory problems and pregnant women will not be allowed to participate.