Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

Planning to plunge deep into the sea and meet whale sharks on your next holidays? Diving around the island paradise of Holbox ("black hole" in Yucatan Maya) provides a great experience for those interested in this extraordinary activity. Situated in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Holbox is a charming and picturesque island, a small hidden paradise with spectacular white sand beaches and soft waves of crystal clear water. The island is approximately 12 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, and it is detached from the land by a surface lagoon that is home to flamingos, pelicans and other rich birdlife. Holbox is an enchanted place where unique landscapes full of exotic species blend with unpaved streets of white sand surrounded by charming Caribbean houses. Apart from its beaches and the landscape, Holbox offers amazing diving sites to snorkel with whale sharks, an experience that will make your stay unforgettable.

To access the island, you can use the ferry that departs from the small city of Chiquila, or the airline that flies from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Holbox has virtually no cars, indeed most residents and tourists use the golf cart or just walk. The island is currently developing an increasing tourist industry, deriving mainly from viewing or snorkeling with whale sharks. Visitors can see the whale shark from a pretty close distance and the bolder ones can enjoy swimming with this docile species in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean, surrounded by their natural environment. These huge sea creatures are found near the coast. Once there, the experience is just invaluable! You float quietly; until the whales fell you are there and slowly swim towards you. Or maybe you are just snorkeling and suddenly a whale shark rises from below to see you. These sharks have slow movements, very close to the surface, which allows swimmers to interact with this beautiful species up close in safety. Either way, it's an experience to cherish and remember.

The island features different tour operators that provide this service during an unforgettable tour available on the island. During the tour, visitors can watch, swim and snorkel with the whale shark, a species that visits the island every year from May to the first days of September. Depending on the travel agency, prices to enjoy this great experience start approximately at $160 US$, and generally include boat transportation, water, soft drinks, beer, sun glasses and towel, sandwiches and ceviche, photographer on board, and the necessary snorkel equipment.  You shouldn’t forget to take your sunblock and a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun!                          

The scuba diving and snorkeling around Holbox is unforgettable. No matter if you are a new or an adventurous diver, you can snorkel in warm waters, surrounded by a charming scene with all kinds of tropical fish. You can just watch the amazing whale sharks or have an unforgettable snorkeling experience with them. Whatever your option is, you will find vibrant colorful coral, marine life and the immaculate turquoise water that the Caribbean is well known for. You won't forget the experience!

Verónica Torres