
















Swim with Whale Sharks: An Epic Journey from Cancun and Riviera Maya
Cancun
Description
Have you ever dreamed of swimming alongside the largest fish on Earth? In the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, that dream becomes reality. From mid-May to September 17th, join our Whale Shark Expedition and experience nature at its most majestic.
We offer roundtrip transportation from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum for your convenience. Pick your date, share your hotel or address, and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with these gentle ocean giants.
Each season, whale sharks — reaching up to 12 meters in length — visit this paradise to feed. Witness their grace, swim with them in their natural habitat, and enjoy additional surprises like dolphins or giant mantas along the way.
After a scenic 50-minute boat ride, you’ll arrive at the feeding grounds where magic happens:
You’ll spend 2.5 to 3 hours searching for and swimming with the whale sharks. Following regulations, jumps are done in pairs and always accompanied by a certified guide.
On average, each pair will enjoy 2 to 3 jumps — although this can vary depending on sea conditions and the number of whale sharks present.
At Gluup, your experience is everything: enjoy a light breakfast, personalized guiding, all snorkeling gear, free photos of the day, and even a delicious ceviche lunch on Isla Mujeres’ breathtaking Playa Norte.
🌕 Best Dates? Around the full moons (June 11, July 10, August 9, September 7, 2025), whale shark gatherings often reach their highest concentrations.
However, every day during the season can offer extraordinary encounters, as whale sharks constantly migrate through the waters of Isla Mujeres. Many guests experience unforgettable swims even outside peak dates.
And don’t worry — every expedition is guided by certified professionals, with a sighting guarantee: on the rare case that no whale sharks are spotted, you can join another tour by only covering the park fee!
Key Points
Max: Up to 10 persons
Duration: 7:00 hrs
Guide language: Spanish, English
What's Included
- Roundtrip transportation from your hotel or accommodation in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen.
- Whale Shark Expedition in their natural habitat and reef snorkeling.
- Visit to Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, to relax and enjoy the beach.
- Light to-go breakfast (banana, bread, and individual yogurt)
- Onboard snacks: water, soft drinks, fruits, and sandwiches.
- Delicious shrimp or fish ceviche and tortilla chips (vegetarian option available).
- All snorkeling gear: mask, fins, snorkel and life jacket.
- Professional bilingual guides and experienced local captains.
- Top-quality 33-foot boats with twin outboard motors.
- Includes FREE general photo package from the day, taken by the guide during the activity. If you’d like more personalized photos or videos, feel free to speak directly with the guide to arrange a separate fee.
- Sighting guarantee: if no whale sharks are seen, you can join another tour by only covering the marine park fee.
Itinerary
6:00 AM
Start of pickups in the lobby of your hotel in Playa del Carmen in an air-conditioned van.
6:30 AM
Start of pickups in the lobby of your hotel in Cancun.
7:30 AM
Arrival at the marina in Punta Sam and breakfast.
8:15 AM
Departure by boat from the marina to the whale shark area.
9:10 AM
Arrive to whale shark area. (approx. 2.5–3 hrs)
12:00 PM
Reef snorkeling.
12:30 PM
Boat trip to Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres.
1:00 PM
Stop at "Playa Norte" of Isla Mujeres to enjoy ceviche and tortilla chips.
2:00 PM
Departure by van from the marina to hotels.
Where
What's Not Included
Recommendations
Requirements
• Basic swimming skills recommended.
• Respect marine wildlife (no touching).
• Minimum age: 3 years.
• Follow all safety instructions from guides.
Cancellation Policy
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity date.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before or do not show up, 100% of the reservation will be charged.
• In the event that weather or sea conditions do not allow the activity to take place, you will be notified one day before to either reschedule or request a full refund.
• Please note: changes due to rain or minor weather conditions on the day of the tour do not qualify for rescheduling or refund unless the operator determines that the tour must be cancelled for safety reasons.
My tour - Snorkeling with the whale shark with Gluup was absolutely fantastic! Right from the pickup to drop off was smooth and hassle-free. A special mention for Ricky, our guide who was one of the best tour guides I have ever seen. He ensured everyone was feeling okay when a few on board got sea sick. He ensured I had the closest and the safest encounter with the Whale Shark! Thank you for an Incredible experience. Keep it up, Ricardo! Mucho Gracias 🙏

Varsha Karanth
July 2025
We had a great time diving it was our first experience scuba diving and our guide Luis was awesome. Strongly suggest booking this if you are looking to try out scuba diving.

Aaron Schoppe
July 2025
Everything went amazingly, everyone was very friendly. A great experience.

Mateo Fernandez
July 2025