Whale shark Watching

Whale Shark Watching in Palawan, Philippines: A Close Encounter with the Ocean’s Gentle Giants

If you’re dreaming of sharing space with the world’s biggest fish, the whale shark, Palawan offers a fantastic opportunity. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of an unforgettable experience—complete with snorkeling, scenic beaches, and the thrill of spotting these gentle creatures.

What I love about this tour is its affordable price point of $70 per person, the well-organized nature of the batch system that ensures everyone gets enough time with the sharks, and the convenience of included hotel pick-up. A potential snag? The activity’s time and people limits mean you’ll need to be flexible with timing and patience.

This experience suits adventurous travelers, families with teenagers, and anyone eager to connect with marine life, especially those who love snorkelling but aren’t necessarily strong swimmers since swimming isn’t allowed with the sharks—only snorkeling.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at $70, making it accessible for most travelers
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, streamlining logistics
• Limited activity slots mean you’ll need to book in advance and be patient
• Snorkeling with whale sharks rather than diving, ideal for non-divers
• Time-limited batches ensure everyone gets fair chances to see the sharks
• Not suitable for pregnant women or very young children

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of Whale Shark Watching in Palawan

Palawan is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and friendly local guides. This whale shark tour, operated by BIZ IT Travel and Tours, offers a chance to see and swim with the ocean’s gentle giants, the whale sharks, in their natural habitat. The tour costs $70 per person, a price that seems reasonable considering it includes not just the boat trip but also the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

The experience is designed to maximize safety and enjoyment, with activities arranged in batches. You’ll be assigned to a group, each with enough time to observe or snorkel with the whale sharks—no rushing or crowded scenes. This structure allows for a more relaxed and authentic encounter, a crucial feature since whale shark sightings are natural and unpredictable.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The day begins with hotel pickup, usually in the early morning, which is a big plus for those who want to avoid the hassle of arranging transport. The boat departs for the designated whale shark spot, often complemented by scenic views of Palawan’s coast.

Once at the site, guides from BIZ IT Travel and Tours provide safety instructions and equipment, with a focus on responsible interaction—no swimming with the sharks, only snorkeling, which helps protect these delicate creatures. The batch system means you’ll spend a set amount of time in the water, giving everyone a fair chance to see the whale sharks up close.

Reviews indicate that guides are knowledgeable and eager to share facts about whale sharks, often making the experience more engaging. Many travelers note that seeing these massive fish glide silently through the water is a surreal moment—something that photos can’t quite capture.

Snorkeling and Safety Considerations

Snorkeling is the main activity; you’ll wear a mask, fins, and a life vest. Tour operators emphasize that swimming is not allowed—a safety measure to keep both humans and sharks safe. If you’re not a confident swimmer, don’t worry, as the snorkeling experience is typically suitable for most ages, provided you follow safety instructions.

As some reviews highlight, not being able to swim with the sharks can be a bit disappointing for more daring travelers, but it’s an understandable safety precaution. It’s also worth noting that pregnant women are advised not to participate, aligning with common safety advice for water activities.

Timing and Group Size

Timing is crucial to ensure the best chance of seeing whale sharks, which are naturally unpredictable. The tour’s batch system means there’s a good balance between maximizing your time with the sharks and managing the overall capacity. Expect a full day of activity, with most tours lasting several hours from pickup to return.

Group sizes tend to be manageable, creating a more personal experience—guides and boat crews are attentive and eager to assist. This setup minimizes overcrowding and ensures everyone gets quality time in the water.

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The Value of This Tour

At $70, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—covering transportation, expert guiding, safety gear, and the thrill of a rare encounter. Reviews mention that the organized approach and knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to the overall value, making it more than just a boat ride.

Some travelers note that the experience is entirely natural, with no guarantee of whale shark sightings, which is typical for wildlife tours. However, the effort and organization make the trip worthwhile, especially for those eager to see such majestic creatures in their natural environment.

Additional Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring your passport or ID card—especially if traveling with children—since identification might be required
• Don’t forget sun protection: hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential as you’ll spend hours on the water
• Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid missing out due to limited batch sizes
• Dress comfortably and bring a waterproof camera to capture the moment, but be mindful of safety instructions about being in the water
• Prepare for the weather—Palawan can be sunny and warm, so hydration and light clothing are advisable

Final Thoughts

This whale shark tour in Palawan offers a fantastic opportunity for anyone eager to see these gentle giants without the need for diving certification or strenuous activity. It balances affordability with quality, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and responsible operations.

While you’ll need to be flexible regarding timing and weather, the chance to watch a whale shark glide gracefully through the water is a rare gift. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate marine wildlife, enjoy snorkeling, and prefer a structured, safe environment.

For those seeking a meaningful and memorable adventure in Palawan, this experience could easily become a highlight of your trip, provided you’re prepared for the natural unpredictability of wildlife encounters.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate as long as they have the necessary ID, but swimming is not allowed with the sharks, which is suitable for most ages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID card, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, a waterproof camera, and some snacks or water for the day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience usually lasts several hours, including pickup, boat trip, snorkeling, and return to your hotel. Exact durations depend on weather and wildlife conditions.

Are there any restrictions on swimming?
Yes, swimming with the whale sharks is not permitted to protect both the animals and participants. You will snorkel but not dive.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate, aligning with safety precautions for water activities.

What language is used during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides ready to provide information and assistance in that language.

This whale shark watching adventure in Palawan combines the thrill of marine life with responsible tourism, promising a memorable experience for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: