Whale Shark Watching and Snorkeling Experience on Contoy Island

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside the world’s largest fish—yep, the whale shark—you’ll want to consider this tour. While we haven’t done it ourselves, plenty of travelers rave about this full-day adventure starting from the Riviera Maya, and from the descriptions, it sounds like a pretty spectacular experience.

What really caught our eye? First, the convenience of roundtrip transportation from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, making it straightforward to get to the action without fuss. Second, the inclusion of meals and light snacks, so there’s no need to pack a big lunch or worry about finding food during the day.

That said, a few things are worth noting. The dock fee of $30 per person isn’t included in the listed price, so budget for that extra cost. Also, the tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, which is ideal if you prefer small groups but could be limiting during peak seasons.

This tour looks like a good fit for travelers who are eager for a hassle-free way to see whale sharks, especially if you’re comfortable with water activities and want to avoid overly crowded excursions. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer, the guides seem well-regarded and the experience highly praised.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Light breakfast, lunch, bottled water, and soda are provided.
• Transportation included: Pickup from most Cancun and Playa del Carmen hotels simplifies planning.
• Limited group size: Max of 20 travelers for a more personalized trip.
• Weather-dependent: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Age and weight restrictions: Suitable for ages 8 and up, with a max weight of 250 lb (113 kg).
• Secluded spot: Instead of Isla Mujeres, this tour visits Contoy Island, offering a less-crowded environment.

Discovering the Tour: What to Expect

This whale shark tour is all about simplicity and focus. From the moment your pickup arrives, you’re set for a day of discovery. The journey begins with a comfortable boat cruise out to Contoy Island, a lesser-known gem compared to the busy Isla Mujeres. The boat ride itself offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and get excited for what’s ahead.

Once you arrive near Contoy Island, which serves as a feeding ground for whale sharks during summer, your guides will start searching for these gentle giants. The highlight? Once located, you’ll be able to swim with whale sharks, an experience many find breathtaking. Wearing your snorkel gear and life jacket, you’ll take turns floating alongside these massive yet peaceful creatures, always at a respectful distance.

The guides are experienced and seem to be praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer mentioned “Two of the best guide tours in the business, Willie Wonka and Captain J,” which hints at a professional team committed to safety and making sure everyone gets the most out of the experience.

What’s Special About Snorkeling with Whale Sharks?

Swimming next to whale sharks, which can reach lengths of up to 40 feet, is genuinely unlike anything else. The sensation of gliding alongside these filter-feeding giants, often described as “majestic,” is hard to forget. These fish are remarkably gentle, so the activity is safe and suitable for most — but remember, you do need to be at least 8 years old.

The Food and Refreshments

No need to worry about packing snacks or meals—lunch and a light breakfast are included, along with bottled water and sodas. This adds to the overall value, especially considering the full 7-hour duration. The included lunch is likely to be simple but satisfying, giving you fuel for the day’s adventures.

The Cost and What It Covers

At $225 per person, this tour is priced competitively for a full-day experience with transport, meals, and snorkeling gear included. The main additional expense is the $30 dock fee, which you pay on-site. When you factor in the convenience of hotel pickups and the chance to swim with whale sharks—a bucket list activity—the price seems justified for many travelers.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Loved:

• The well-regarded guides seem to make a big difference, guiding you safely and making the experience enjoyable.
• The scenic boat ride and proximity to Contoy Island promise a less-crowded, more intimate experience compared to more popular tourist spots.
• The food offerings, especially the light breakfast and lunch, are a thoughtful addition, saving you time and money.

What Could Be Better:

• The dock fee adds an extra expense, which might catch some visitors off guard if not prepared.
• Since the tour depends on good weather, there’s a chance of cancellation, which could disrupt plans, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
• The maximum group size is 20, which is nice for intimacy but could mean early bookings are essential during peak season.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer shared, “We had a great experience seeing all the whales. The boat was very comfortable, and the views were amazing.” Another added, “They guarantee that you will see and swim next to the whale sharks and manta ray,” emphasizing the tour’s focus on delivering a memorable encounter.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The typical day starts with hotel pickups around 8:00 am, which gives plenty of time before arriving at the boat. Once onboard, you can expect a comfortable ride to Contoy Island, a significant feeding area for whale sharks during summer. Once there, your guides will locate the whale sharks—an activity that requires patience and a bit of luck but is often successful based on reviews.

After spotting the whale sharks, you’ll don snorkel gear, and depending on your group, take turns swimming with these gentle giants. The experience—sometimes described as “breathtaking”—is about observing and respecting the animals’ space while enjoying their sheer size and presence.

Post-snorkeling, the tour includes a satisfying lunch with drinks, giving you a chance to relax and chat about the morning’s highlights. The return trip is usually smooth, and the whole day wraps up around 3-4 pm, depending on conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values an organized, all-inclusive day with little planning stress—especially if you’re keen on seeing whale sharks—this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suitable for travelers comfortable with water activities and those who want to avoid overly crowded spots.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the age restriction (8+) and moderate physical activity requirement make it accessible for families with older children who are comfortable snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

Swimming with whale sharks is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, and this tour makes it surprisingly easy to do just that. The combination of comfortable transport, guided expertise, and meals included makes it a convenient option for those wanting a hassle-free adventure.

The fact that multiple travelers describe guides as “the best” and highlight the stunning views and memorable encounters suggests this tour delivers on its promises. It’s not perfect—the dock fee and weather dependence are considerations—but overall, it offers a meaningful, well-organized way to see these gentle giants.

This experience would suit anyone with a sense of adventure, an appreciation for nature, and a desire for a stress-free day out on the water. If swimming with whale sharks is on your bucket list, you could do a lot worse than this organized tour on the Riviera Maya.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from most Cancun and Playa del Carmen hotels is included, making it easy to join without extra planning.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting around 8:00 am, including travel, snorkeling, and lunch.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Not necessarily. The tour uses snorkeling gear, and guides are experienced, but you should be comfortable in water and physically capable of moderate activity.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, travelers should be at least 8 years old to participate.

How much does the dock fee cost?
The dock fee is $30 per person and is paid on-site, so budget for that additional expense.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and any personal items. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you may wish to bring your own mask or fins if preferred.

What if the weather is bad?
This tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the experience guaranteed?
While the tour promises encounters with whale sharks, wildlife sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. However, reviews indicate guides are experienced and successful in locating these creatures often during the season.

If swimming alongside whale sharks is on your list, this tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, safety, and memorable wildlife encounters. Just remember to check the weather forecast and be ready for an adventure that you’ll be talking about for years.