Swimming with whale sharks has been on my list for the last 5 years. Eventually after a span without any major adventures I decided to schedule a trip to make it a reality. With only 5 days off from work this trip would be a quick one. First and last days are travel days, especially when traveling internationally. This left us 3 days to get in the water with the sharks. Leaving from Isla Mujeres its 1.25hrs boat ride to the area where the whale sharks feed. Actual interactions with the sharks are heavily regulated by the Mexican government but all rules are to benefit the animals. I found it truly amazing that they did not bait the sharks to come to a specific area. This also means that finding them may be a bit of a mission. The seas may be rough so anti-nausea medication is recommended for the faint of stomach.

Feeding time

swimming with the massive creatures is thrilling and calming at the same time

It is important to never be directly in a whale shark’s way. While these animals do not spook easily, we do not want to harass them.