Whale Watching in Sumilon Island with Ocean View Resort and Lunch

Exploring the Whale Watching in Sumilon Island with Ocean View Resort and Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Cebu, one of the standout experiences is definitely the chance to swim with whale sharks—Cebu’s most famous attraction. This tour, offered by TABICEBU, blends the thrill of spotting gentle giants with relaxing time on Sumilon Island’s pristine beaches and a delicious seaside lunch. It’s a well-reviewed, carefully organized day packed with memorable moments that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What really stands out for us are the professional Japanese-speaking guides, the stunning views of the ocean, and the value for money—especially considering all the inclusions like snorkeling gear, photos, and transfers. However, a potential consideration is the early start, which might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer sleeping in or are sensitive to long mornings. This tour is perfect for those who love wildlife encounters, beach relaxation, and seamless, guided experiences.

Who is this tour best suited for?

Anyone eager to see whale sharks up close, families looking for a safe and engaging adventure, or travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with fantastic scenery and reliable guides will find this experience highly worthwhile.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience with a 5.0/5 based on 93 reviews, showing consistent satisfaction.
• Includes transportation, guiding, snorkeling gear, and photos, offering great value without hidden costs.
• Early start (around 3 AM) might be challenging but ensures the best chances to see whale sharks.
• Guides are praised for their helpfulness, especially those fluent in Japanese, enhancing comfort for non-English speakers.
• Sumilon Island’s white sands and crystal waters provide a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and photos.
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, good for spontaneous plans or changes.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Start: Early Morning Pickup

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from a centrally located meeting point, specifically at a 7-Eleven in Marigondon around 3:00 AM. Yes, you read that right—early mornings are part of the package, but most reviews agree it’s worth the effort. One reviewer noted, “It was very early at 3:30 am, but it was worth it to swim with whale sharks.” Rest assured, the early start maximizes your chances to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat, when they are most active and visible.

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

Once on the boat, you’ll be equipped with a snorkel mask and life jacket, critical for comfort and safety. The boat crew, including a sea water photographer or videographer, will help capture your moments with the whale sharks, which many reviews describe as surreal. Travelers frequently mention how close they got—“It was so fun to see whale sharks close by” and “It was great to take photos with many whale sharks.”

The experience is designed for accessibility; most travelers, including children, can participate comfortably. Guides, like Jun, are praised for their kindness and clarity, making sure everyone feels safe and informed. One reviewer appreciated, “Jun-san explained everything clearly, making it a fun experience,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

Sumilon Island: A Tropical Paradise

After swimming with whale sharks, you’ll head to Sumilon Island, often described as a “tropical paradise” with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing or taking additional photos. Many visitors comment on how beautiful and peaceful the island is, with one stating, “It felt like a tropical escape. Perfect for some downtime after the excitement.”

You’ll also have the chance to snorkel again or just lounge on the shore. The island offers a stunning natural setting that looks straight out of a travel magazine, with reviewers mentioning “the waterfalls and ocean views are breathtaking.” This makes the trip ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a bit of everything—adventure, scenery, and tranquillity.

Lunch at a Beach Resort

The tour includes a delicious seaside lunch at a popular beach resort, with options for everyone including kids. Reviewers frequently praise the meal, describing it as “delicious, fresh, and served with a view of the ocean.” Although lunch costs around PHP 500-600, many agree that the scenic setting and quality make it worthwhile.

The meal offers a perfect spot to unwind, swap stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy the peaceful sea breeze. Plus, the guides often help translate or explain local dishes, adding to the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine.

Practical Details and Tips

• Tour duration is approximately 11 hours, making it a full-day outing. Be prepared for an early start but also for a packed, well-organized schedule.
• Group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.
• Pricing at $124 per person offers good value considering the inclusions—guided service, boat photos, snorkeling gear, and lunch.
• Pickup service is available, removing the hassle of arranging your own transport.
• Booking 47 days in advance is common, indicating high demand, especially during peak seasons.

What Do Past Travelers Say?

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of guides like Jun, who is noted for being friendly, helpful, and fluent in Japanese. Many mention how smooth and stress-free the experience was, emphasizing the responsiveness of the tour operators—“The response was very fast from the time of booking” and “LINE communication was very flexible.”

Several travelers highlight the close encounters with whale sharks as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. One said, “It was a fantastic experience in Cebu island. I will never forget swimming with whale sharks,” while another appreciated the supportive attitude of the crew. Even early risers found the effort justified, with comments like, “Getting up at 3 am was tough, but it was worth it.”

Additional Considerations

• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Seasickness: Long boat rides mean some might need motion sickness medication—certain reviews mention being cautious but enjoying the trip overall.
• Seawater photos and videos: These are included, a real perk for capturing moments without extra cost.
• Accessibility: The tour is designed for most travelers, including service animals, and is near public transportation.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This whale shark experience offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it perfect for travelers who want a reliable, well-run tour with high safety standards. The inclusion of professional guides, combined with scenic stops and fun photo opportunities, makes it a top choice for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

If you’re seeking a bucket-list activity in Cebu that balances wildlife encounters with beach leisure and good food, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for families, groups, or solo travelers who value organised, hassle-free experiences and want to maximize their time on the water with minimal stress.

The early morning start may be a challenge, but many reviews confirm that it pays off by providing the best chance to see whale sharks in their natural habitat. The value for money, considering what’s included, makes it a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable day in Cebu.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 3:00 AM, making it a long day but maximizing chances to see whale sharks early in their feeding time.

What is included in the tour package?
The package covers transportation, guiding fee, snorkel masks, life jackets, a breakfast with juice, mineral water, and photos taken by the boat crew.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers, including kids, can join, provided they are comfortable with snorkeling and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, rash guard (suggested by travelers to prevent sunscreen restrictions), sun protection, and a waterproof camera if you wish to capture underwater moments.

Is there a chance of cancellation?
Yes, the tour can be canceled if the weather is poor, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if that occurs.

How many people usually join?
The tour groups are small, capped at 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

How long does the whale shark encounter last?
While the exact time varies, expect to spend a good portion of the boat ride snorkeling and observing these gentle giants.

What about lunch?
Lunch is at a scenic beach resort, with quality Filipino dishes served in a relaxing seaside setting, around PHP 500-600.

In summary, this tour offers a carefully curated mix of wildlife adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor—all managed by attentive guides and supported by excellent reviews. Whether it’s your first time in Cebu or a repeat visit, it’s a memorable way to experience the best of what this island has to offer.