Swimming with

the whale shark

Experience the breathtaking majesty of the ocean’s largest fish in the pristine waters of Puerto Princesa.

Whale Shark Swimming – Typical Full-Day Itinerary (Honda Bay / Offshore)

Season: April to October (peak sightings around full moon weeks)

Note: This is not guaranteed — it depends on seasonal patterns and where the sharks are feeding on plankton.

🕐 Full-Day Schedule

● 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM — Hotel Pickup

Pick up from your hotel in Puerto Princesa City (usually within a ~10 km radius).

● 7:00 AM – 7:15 AM — Departure from Baywalk Park

Safe boarding and departure toward Honda Bay offshore areas.

● 7:15 AM – 9:00 AM — Transit to Whale Shark Zone

Boat ride out to zones where whale sharks have been spotted on that day.

Your guide explains guidelines (no feeding, no chasing, respectful distance, life-vest use).

● 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Whale Shark Encounter

Once a whale shark is found, you’ll get instructions on when and how to swim.

Swim with these gentle giants — see them from the surface and, when conditions allow, get in for brief snorkel swims alongside them.

Guides follow responsible marine tourism protocols — no touch, no feeding.

● 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM — Lunch on Board

Simple lunch served on the boat with rice and local dishes/fruits.

Tikigo

● 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM — Return Cruise

Head back toward Baywalk.

● 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM — Hotel Drop-off

Transfer back to your hotel in Puerto Princesa.

Gentle Giants of Puerto Princesa: A Natural Encounter

A Responsible Wildlife Experience

Experience the breathtaking majesty of the ocean’s largest fish in the pristine waters of Puerto Princesa. Unlike other regions where feeding is common, our whale shark tours focus on ethical and sustainable tourism. We observe these "gentle giants" in their natural habitat, ensuring that their migratory patterns and behaviors remain undisturbed. It is a profound, respectful encounter that prioritizes the welfare of the animals and the health of the marine ecosystem.

What to Expect on Your Adventure

The journey typically begins in the early morning, departing from the Baywalk as we head out into the deep blue. Our experienced local spotters use traditional techniques to locate the whale sharks, which are often found feeding on plankton near the surface. Once a sighting is confirmed, you’ll have the chance to slide quietly into the water with a mask and snorkel. Watching a creature the size of a bus glide effortlessly through the water is a truly humbling spectacle that stays with you forever.

Seasonal Timing and Preparation

While whale sharks are majestic, they are also wild and elusive. The peak season in Puerto Princesa usually runs from April to October, coinciding with the calmest seas and highest plankton density. We recommend that guests are comfortable swimming in open water and follow all safety briefings provided by our certified guides. Join us for a stable, well-organized expedition that celebrates the raw beauty of Palawan’s underwater world without compromising on safety or environmental integrity.