Cebu: Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks Trip in Oslob

If you’re dreaming of an encounter with the gentle giants of the sea, the Cebu whale shark trip in Oslob offers an unforgettable experience. From the moment you hop into the water to the scenic drive back, this tour is designed to give you close-up views of the world’s largest fish—safely and with plenty of guidance.

What we love about this trip is its combination of early morning adventure, the opportunity to learn basic scuba skills, and the chance to share the water with whale sharks—all in one go. The professional guides make sure everyone feels comfortable, even if you’re new to scuba. Plus, the scenic drive along southern Cebu provides a lovely preview of the local landscape.

However, one consideration is that crowds can be intense, especially during peak times, which might detract from the feeling of a private, serene experience. So, if you’re looking for solitude, it’s worth planning for early or less busy days.

This trip is especially suited for adventure lovers, first-timers, and anyone wanting a memorable, educational underwater experience. It’s a great mix of thrill, scenic views, and wildlife, making it perfect for those who want a full-day adventure packed with authentic moments.

Key Points

• Authentic encounter: Swim with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean.
• Expert guidance: Professionally trained instructors ensure safety and learning.
• Flexibility: Suitable for both licensed and first-time divers.
• Scenic journey: Enjoy a picturesque drive along Cebu’s southern coastline.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes a brief stop at Tumalog Falls and other local sights.
• Time management: Well-paced 8-to-9-hour tour, with pickup and drop-off options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and What to Expect

This full-day tour from Cebu City offers a well-rounded experience, blending wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and local attractions. It’s operated by Mcrich Travel, focusing on providing a safe, enjoyable, and informative adventure.

You’ll start your day early, with a 5:00 AM hotel pickup—a smart move to beat the crowds and secure the best viewing opportunities. The drive south takes roughly 2-3 hours, giving you time to enjoy the coastal scenery and perhaps sneak in a nap or a chat with fellow travelers.

Once in Oslob, you’ll meet your diving master for a safety briefing and gear setup. This is quite helpful, especially for first-timers. You might appreciate the full assistance provided—reviewers mention guides like Jerson, who are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism. The goal is to ensure everyone gets comfortable before stepping into the water.

The Whale Shark Encounters

The main event is, of course, swimming with the whale sharks. These filter-feeding giants are captivating to watch, and the experienced guides help you understand their behavior and safety rules. You’re briefed on what to look for and how to behave, which is reassuring for those new to the experience.

While the tour advertises scuba diving for around 30 minutes, some reviews indicate mixed experiences here. One reviewer mentioned that diving at 15 meters didn’t always yield the best views since the whale sharks often stay at about 5 meters deep. Still, many found the total time in the water worth the cost, especially if it’s your first time swimming with these amazing creatures.

It’s important to note that small groups and full assistance from dive masters help make the experience smooth, even for beginners. One traveler shared, “Guide was very helpful and professional,” which highlights the quality of support provided.

The Scenic Drive and Additional Stops

After the water adventure, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute stop at Tumalog Falls—a lush, cascading waterfall perfect for a quick, self-guided visit. Reviewers recommend this as a relaxing break and a chance to snap photos of the stunning scenery.

The tour is designed to balance wildlife encounters with local sights, making the most of your day without rushing. The return journey includes a comfortable, scenic drive back to Cebu City, with several drop-off options, including Mactan, Talisay, and Lapu-Lapu.

Transportation and Logistics

Travel is by private car, which provides a comfortable and flexible experience. The early pickup at your hotel ensures you avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to your day.

The tour’s 8 to 9-hour duration is fairly balanced, giving ample time for each activity, including the drive, briefing, water time, and sightseeing. The pickup and drop-off options across 9 locations add convenience, especially if you’re staying outside central Cebu.

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Pricing and Value

The tour’s price reflects the comprehensive nature—transport, guides, gear, and attractions are bundled into one package. While some reviews mention the high cost, many feel the value of avoiding long travel to Donsol or organizing independent trips makes it worthwhile.

The full safety briefing and professional support elevate the experience, especially for first-timers. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, which is handy if you’re planning ahead.

What the Reviews Say

There’s a mix of impressions, with many travelers highlighting the knowledgeable guides as a top perk. One reviewer said, “Jerson gave us a super comfortable ride and great organization,” emphasizing the smooth logistics. Stunning views and the chance to see the whale sharks up close create lifelong memories.

However, some note that crowds can be overwhelming, especially with thousands of visitors during peak times, which can diminish the feeling of a private experience. A traveler from Singapore commented that diving at 15 meters might not always be ideal because the whale sharks often stay near the surface, making deeper dives less rewarding.

Overall, most agree that the professional assistance, scenic drive, and the chance to swim alongside whale sharks compensate for the busy environment.

Additional Considerations

• Health & Safety: You shouldn’t fly at least 18 hours after diving. Be sure to mention any health issues, as the tour excludes those with heart problems.
• Experience Level: Open to first-time and licensed divers, with safety guidance provided regardless of experience.
• Weather Dependence: Bad weather may lead to last-minute cancellations, so flexible plans are recommended.
• What to Bring: Changes of clothes, towels, toiletries, and a camera are essentials.

The Sum Up

This Cebu whale shark tour offers a memorable blend of marine wildlife, scenic views, and local culture. It’s especially suited for adventurers and first-time divers looking for a guided, safe introduction to underwater life. The professional guides and well-organized itinerary** make sure you get the most out of your day, while the early start helps you beat the crowds.

The opportunity to swim with whale sharks—an experience few forget—is worth the investment for many travelers. It’s a perfect mix of education, excitement, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for an authentic adventure.

If you’re after a full-day outing with expert support, scenic stops, and a chance to see one of the ocean’s most gentle giants, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for first-time divers?
Yes, the tour welcomes both licensed and first-time divers. Full guidance and assistance are provided, making it accessible for beginners.

How long do I spend in the water?
The scuba diving experience typically lasts around 30 minutes, but total water time can vary depending on conditions and group size.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, toiletries, and a camera if you’d like photos of your encounter.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, individuals with heart problems should avoid this tour. Also, travelers should not fly at least 18 hours after diving for safety reasons.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private car transfers from your hotel and back, with pickup options at multiple locations across Cebu.

What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather might lead to last-minute cancellation, so flexible plans and checking the forecast are recommended.

This tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic experience—one that balances adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife, all guided by professionals who care about your safety and enjoyment. Perfect for those eager to tick off a bucket-list encounter with whale sharks while exploring Cebu’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: