Whale Sharks Small-Group Tour in Cancun and Riviera Maya
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Go to this amazing adventure where you will be able to see the Mexico's gentle giants - whale sharks! Cruising the Gulf of Mexico with an expert guide, you'll visit the biggest fish and maybe spot dolphins, manta rays, and turtles on this small-group snorkeling adventure off the Yucatan coast.
*NOTE: WE CAN OPERATE A PRIVATE WHALE SHARK TOUR ALL DAYS (EXCEPT 30 OF EACH MONTH).
Available options
Cancun Departure
Departs from Cancun hotels.
•EXACTLY PICK UP TIME WILL BE PROVIDED ONE DAY BEFORE YOUR TOUR BY A MESSAGE ON VIATOR.
Playa Del Carmen Departure
Departs from Playa del Carmen hotels.
•EXACTLY PICK UP TIME WILL BE PROVIDED ONE DAY BEFORE YOUR TOUR BY A MESSAGE ON VIATOR.
Riviera Maya Departure
Departs from Riviera Maya hotels
•EXACTLY PICK UP TIME WILL BE PROVIDED ONE DAY BEFORE YOUR TOUR BY A MESSAGE ON VIATOR.
Tulum Departure
Pick-ups will be in Super Aki Market in Tulum.
•EXACTLY PICK UP TIME WILL BE PROVIDED ONE DAY BEFORE YOUR TOUR.<br/>Pickup included
Without transportation
Pick up place directly in Marina Xtabay, Carretera Puerto Juárez, Carr. a Punta Sam Supermanzana 84, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.
What's included
Bilingual naturalist guide
Water and soft drinks
Use of snorkeling equipment (life jacket, visor, fins, snorkel)
Shared Transportation
Fish Ceviche and Sandwiches
Detailed itinerary
1
Join us for an informative briefing at Marina Xtabay, where our certified guides will share fascinating insights about whale sharks and the unique ecosystems of the region. Learn more about these gentle giants and their natural habitat before your adventure begins.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard, just off the coast of Isla Mujeres—home to one of the world's most stunning beaches, as recognized by Condé Nast in 2013. Take time to swim and relax in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of this tropical paradise.
What's not included
Gratuities
Alcoholic Beverages
Personal expenses
Environmental tax and dock use: $20.00 USD in cash per person, payable the day of your tour.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
469 reviews
5★
338
4★
55
3★
28
2★
21
1★
27
Tripadvisor
4.7
449 reviews
5★
382
4★
29
3★
12
2★
7
1★
19
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 5 years
This tour requires a minimum number of passengers to operate. There is a possibility that the tour may be canceled after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be provided the option to take the tour on an alternative date or be refunded in full.
We only permit Mineral sunscreen.
We recommended to ask your doctor if you can take seasickness pills before your tour.
Whale Shark ‘No Sighting’ Guarantee: Unfortunately, we can never 100% guarantee a wildlife sighting. But we can guarantee to do everything we can on the day to maximise your chances of swimming with a whale shark.
Meeting point
Carretera Puerto Juárez, Carr. a Punta Sam Supermanzana 84, 77500 Cancún, Q.R. "Marina Xtabay"
Important notes
To make your reservation more efficient, please provide the following information:
- Provide Hotel name (Full Name and Address).
- Provide Room number if you have it.
- Other numbers you can call are +52 998 843667 or +52 998 8849580
Airbnb stays:
We fully accept tours with Airbnb reservations, the pick-up will be taken place in a nearby public place or a more central meeting point in order to speed up the arrival times to the tours.
* Playa del Carmen:
Gasolinera Pemex - Bepensa: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2hjWzVzxqjSsiGqZ6
Walmart: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yDGBHLS9uaTUSBUJA
Oxxo - Unidad Deportiva Luis Donaldo Colosio: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PFqnC1zxrkfRbVdq7
*Puerto Morelos:
Iglesia San Jose Obrero Puerto Morelos: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5n5SpJAuoqRw1UVe6
* Cancun:
Walmart Express Avenida Bonampak: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DDK6RnRH7WT4GyoX6
Oh! Cancun: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QxJixbhbEjv5jsxs8
Plaza Momoto Huayacan: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cog2F4uvpPvFj6tr6
Important Information:
A FEE OF $20.00 USD CASH IS MUST BE PAID THE DAY OF THE ACTIVITY.
Recomendations:
- Bring a swimsuit
- Cotton clothing
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Towel
- Camera
About Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Cancun, Riviera Maya, and the Yucatan offer a captivating blend of stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant culture. This region is renowned for its turquoise waters, lush jungles, and rich history, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city featuring the iconic El Castillo pyramid.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate (around $15 USD entry fee)
Tulum
A stunning coastal Mayan ruin overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Historical/Beach
Full day
Moderate (around $10 USD entry fee for ruins)
Xcaret Park
An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of cultural performances, wildlife exhibits, and adventure activities.
Adventure/Cultural
Full day
Expensive (around $120 USD for full-day ticket)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus and achiote, wrapped in banana leaves.
Main Course
Contains pork, not vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Gluten-free, can be made vegetarian with tofu
Sopa de Lima
A traditional Yucatan soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.
Soup
Contains chicken, not vegetarian
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Zip-lining
ATV tours
Cenote exploration
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring ancient ruins.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cancun, Riviera Maya, and the Yucatan are generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay alert and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Cancun International Airport • 20 km from Cancun city center
By bus
Cancun Bus Station, Playa del Carmen Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, but can be crowded during peak times.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hotel Zone
Downtown Cancun
Playa del Carmen
Day trips
Isla Mujeres
20 km from Cancun • Half to full day
A small island known for its beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and relaxed atmosphere.
Valladolid
150 km from Cancun • Full day
A colonial town with a rich history, known for its beautiful architecture and nearby cenotes.
Holbox Island
150 km from Cancun • Full day to overnight
A car-free island known for its pristine beaches, bioluminescent waters, and wildlife.
Festivals
Carnaval de Cancun • February/March (dates vary)
Festival de la Música Mexicana • June
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) • November 1-2
Pro tips
- Visit Chichen Itza early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Explore the cenotes for a unique and refreshing experience
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
