A 1,460 km² marine protected area north of Isla Mujeres hosts one of the planet's most extraordinary wildlife gatherings: hundreds of whale sharks — the largest fish on Earth, up to 12 meters long — feeding on plankton just below the surface. On the big days of July and August, up to 400 have been counted at once.
We leave early, when the sea is calm and sightings are best. Our captains read the water, the birds and the currents, and know where the sharks surface each morning. Swims are in pairs with a certified guide, two water turns per person, and total respect for the animal: no touching, no flash, no chasing.
It is, without exaggeration, one of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences in existence — and it happens only June through September off Isla Mujeres. Sea transport from the island included.
Gallery
Itinerary
- Meet at the dock and briefing
- Boat ride to the feeding grounds
- Paired swims with a guide: 2 turns per person
- Water on board
- Back at the dock
What's included
- Sea transport
- Snorkel equipment
- Life jacket
- Bilingual guide
- Water on board
- Dock/park fees included
What to bring
- Swimsuit (worn)
- Towel
- Biodegradable sunscreen (mandatory in the protected area)
- Hat
- Dramamine if you get seasick (take it 1 h before)
- Cash for tips
More photos
Meeting point
Isla Mujeres dock (exact location shared when your booking is confirmed)
Online you only pay Casa Aureum's booking deposit; the rest goes directly to the operator on the day of your tour. And if your plans change, we're happy to help.
- 7 days or moreWe refund your depositminus the payment gateway fee, or you move your date for free
- 7 days to 72 hoursWe refund halfof your deposit, minus the gateway fee, or you move your date once
- Under 72 hoursNo refund at that pointbut message us and we'll look at your options together
- If the weather keeps us in port, no worries: we reschedule your date for free, or refund your deposit minus the gateway fee.
- About the gateway fee: PayPal charges around 5 to 6% of the deposit to process the payment (roughly $50 to $60 per $1,000). It goes to PayPal, not to Casa Aureum, which is why it can't be returned.
- To cancel or change your date, just message us on WhatsApp or email with your booking code. We're here to help.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You need basic swimming and comfort in open water. A flotation vest or wetsuit is mandatory and your guide swims with you on every turn.
Are whale shark sightings guaranteed?
In season, sightings exceed 95%. If the port authority closes navigation or there's no sighting, we reschedule your tour at no cost.
Is it safe to swim with them?
Completely. Whale sharks feed on plankton — they have zero interest in humans. The protected-area rules (distance, no flash, no touching) exist to protect them.
Is the sea rough?
The ride is 1-1.5 h in open water and there can be swell. If you're prone to seasickness, take Dramamine an hour before departure — it works.
Can children join?
Yes, as long as they swim confidently. Each minor enters the water paired with an adult and the guide.