+44 203 026 1075
Whale Shark Encounter
PH
100% of travellers recommend this
Self-guided
Highlights
- Swim alongside majestic whale sharks in nature
- Experience a thrilling ocean adventure with locals
- Observe gentle giants in their natural habitat
- Enjoy stunning coastal views and fresh sea breeze
- Participate in an ethical and conservation-focused tour
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Duration 24 hours
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Lunch included
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Snorkeling equipment provided
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English speaking guide
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Insurance included
They will embark on an extraordinary journey to swim alongside the majestic whale sharks in the stunning waters of Puerto Princesa. Guided by local experts, they'll enjoy a day filled with breathtaking coastal views, the thrill of marine wildlife spotting, and the gentle presence of these gentle giants. This ethical encounter ensures no feeding or chasing, allowing the whale sharks to display their natural behaviors in peace. With included snorkeling gear, a delicious lunch, and a focus on conservation, this is not just an adventure—it's a heartfelt connection to nature that promises lasting memories. As they dive into this once-in-a-lifetime experience, they become part of a movement that respects and protects marine life, all while enjoying the beauty of the ocean. Adventure awaits in a unique and responsible way, creating stories they'll cherish forever.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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1 days
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Viator
Jul 26
I can't explain how amazing this tour is! The best gid sila Toto, Eggman, pati ang tanan nga crew!
I was hesitant to swim with whale sharks while visiting the Philippines because of the ethical dilemma (I'm looking at you, Oslob 😅). But after reading about other people's experiences in Palawan, I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did!
This tour was incredible.
You could tell that the team genuinely cares about the whale sharks. They clearly explained the rules about keeping a safe distance and the measures in place to protect them. They were also very careful whenever the boat got close to the whale sharks. On top of that, we were the only boat out looking for and swimming with the whale sharks, so it never felt crowded or like the animals were being overwhelmed.
We also got lucky with a very small group—there were only four guests on our tour. It made the experience feel much more personal! We had six whale shark encounters, and it was one of the highlights of our trip!
The crew was amazing! They worked so hard to give us the best experience possible, and I couldn't recommend them more.
If you're in Puerto Princesa, this tour is an absolute must!
One more helpful tip: after the tour, I found out they have a Facebook page and WhatsApp. If you have questions before booking (especially since it can be a little confusing through third-party websites), you can message them directly.
Viator
Jul 26
We had the best tour with this company! Our guide, Eggman, was EXCELLENT!!!! Everyone was VERY helpful in making our day the most memorable part of our trip! Our guide even included complimentary under water video of our day. We had six different encounters! They are very careful to respect/protect the whale sharks and their natural habitat. If you’re in Palawan this is a tour Is a MUST! If I could give them a higher rating I would!
Viator
Jun 26
The hotel pickup was punctual and smooth. Our guides really worked hard to find whale sharks, but bad weather cut our time short. Still, we managed to see 2–3 and got a quick chance to jump in!
The briefing covered the dos and don'ts well, but one suggestion: please walk guests through how to enter the water quietly without making big splashes. It would help first-timers feel more confident and avoid scaring the sharks.
Also, bring your own mask if you have one as the rentals are basic and fog up easily.
Lunch was a good spread and was set up quickly. I appreciated that the staff took note of dietary restrictions.
Overall, a professional team that prioritizes safety. We appreciated their honesty about the conditions. Just come prepared and manage expectations since nature is unpredictable!
A big thank you to the team for the lovely whale watching experience.
Viator
Apr 25
What a beautiful day we had swimming with Whales sharks today. Our guide Eggman and crew did an amazing job spotting the sharks and getting us all in the water. We swam 5 times with the sharks. Would totally recommend Dolphin and Whales travel and tours. A great experience in Palawan. Lunch supplied was delicious. These whale sharks are not feed either.
Viator
May 25
Here is a team respectful of the animal, we were looking for the whale shark for several hours, we did not find them, that day nature decided not to show up, but we saw a majestic school of dolphins and learned so much about whale sharks, the day was perfect with this very professional team and especially very respectful of the animal, we greatly enjoyed this moment of magic, thank you to the whole team, and our big surprise was a refund of part of the excursion when nothing was guaranteed, even if unlucky the day before they had seen some. It deserves to be highlighted and this club deserves to be known for its benevolence and respect for animals. We do not regret our experience at all, quite the contrary and we cancelled our stay in Cebu when we learned under what conditions it was possible with certainty to observe whale sharks. Shame on all the organizations of Cebu, if you respect nature and if you respect yourself, flee Cebu and come and discover this company that all have our admiration. You are great and we hope that only organizations like you can continue to experience this kind of experience.
Thank you very much.
Michael et Romane
Honey Moon
Butan ding
(French trying to speak Tagalog😁)
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Whale Shark Encounter
Swim with gentle giants in Puerto Princesa for an unforgettable and ethical whale shark encounter amidst stunning coastal views.
Included
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OtherSpotter's fee -
In-vehicle air conditioningRoundtrip hotel pick up and drop-off
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OtherLicensed Tourist Boats
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LunchLunch
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OtherEnglish Speaking Guide
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Use of snorkeling equipmentMask, snorkels, and fins
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OtherInsurance
Meeting Point
For guests that will be pick up from hotel, the driver will have their names to be called in the frontdesk to let them know that pick up is ready.
PPVH+JXV, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan , Philippines
End Point
For guests that will be pick up from hotel, the driver will have their names to be called in the frontdesk to let them know that pick up is ready.
PPVH+JXV, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan , Philippines
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
Guests are picked up from their hotel within a 10 km radius of Puerto Princesa City for free. Their will be extra charges depending on how far their location is.
Another option would be to meet up at Robinsons in front of the Jolibee entrance. They just need to provide a Whatsapp number we can contact them about the van details. (Robinsons is part of 10 km radius)
For guests that will be pick up from hotel, the driver will have their names to be called in the frontdesk to let them know that pick up is ready.
What to expect
Visitors can expect an exciting ocean adventure as they head out by boat into the beautiful waters of Puerto Princesa in search of the gentle giant whale sharks. Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic coastal views, fresh sea breeze, and the thrill of spotting marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Once a whale shark is found, guests may have the chance to swim or snorkel nearby while observing these majestic creatures respectfully and safely with guidance from the whale shark interaction guide and crews. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure, nature, and unforgettable memories.
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Visitors can expect an exciting ocean adventure as they head out by boat into the beautiful waters of Puerto Princesa in search of the gentle giant whale sharks. Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic coastal views, fresh sea breeze, and the thrill of spotting marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Once a whale shark is found, guests may have the chance to swim or snorkel nearby while observing these majestic creatures respectfully and safely with guidance from the whale shark interaction guide and crews. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure, nature, and unforgettable memories.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap -
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Puerto Princesa Dolphin and Whales
What our experts say
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Bring a waterproof camera for photos -
Wear a rash guard to protect from sun
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Consider visiting nearby Honda Bay
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Try local seafood at Bona’s Chao long
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Stay hydrated; bring a refillable bottle
More About this Experience
Introduction
Dive into the mesmerizing world of marine life with the Whale Shark Encounter, a unique experience that promises adventure and wonder. Imagine swimming alongside the ocean's gentle giants, the whale sharks, in their natural habitat. This unforgettable 24-hour tour is designed to respect and protect these majestic creatures while allowing you to observe them closely. With skilled local guides leading the way, you will be taken on a journey through the beautiful waters of Puerto Princesa, where each wave reveals stunning coastal views and vibrant marine life. The tour emphasizes ethical interaction with the whale sharks, ensuring their natural behaviors are preserved by prohibiting feeding, touching, or chasing. Included in your adventure is all the essential gear for snorkeling, delicious lunch, and the comfort of air-conditioned vehicles. Every detail is tailored to give you a remarkable experience while promoting conservation and respect for the ocean's ecosystem.What to expect?
Prepare for an exhilarating day that begins with a friendly greeting at your hotel, where your adventure officially kicks off. As you board the licensed tourist boats, the excitement builds with the fresh sea breeze filling the air. The guides, passionate about marine conservation, will share insights about the whale sharks and their habitat, enriching your experience. Once you spot these gentle giants, you’ll have the chance to slip into the water and snorkel beside them, witnessing their serene beauty up close. This experience is more than just a swim; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature in a meaningful way. You can expect not only breathtaking views and unforgettable encounters but also a sense of fulfillment knowing you’re participating in a responsible wildlife experience that prioritizes the well-being of these incredible creatures.Who is this for?
The Whale Shark Encounter welcomes a diverse range of adventurers, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious first-timer eager to explore the ocean's wonders. This experience is perfect for families wanting to bond over a unique adventure, friends seeking memorable moments together, or solo travelers yearning for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature. While those with moderate physical fitness will benefit the most, the tour also caters to anyone with a love for wildlife and a sense of adventure. However, it's worth noting that the experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health. Ultimately, if you have a heart for conservation and a love for the ocean, this encounter offers something truly special for everyone.Why book this?
Booking the Whale Shark Encounter is not just about swimming with these magnificent creatures; it’s about immersing yourself in a unique experience that highlights respect for marine life. With expert local guides who prioritize ethical interactions, you can feel confident knowing that your adventure supports conservation efforts. This experience is crafted to be educational, inspiring, and empowering, allowing you to connect with nature in a way that few experiences can offer. The stunning backdrop of Puerto Princesa only enhances the adventure, with every moment filled with beauty and awe. By choosing this tour, you’re not only creating unforgettable memories but also contributing to the preservation of these gentle giants and their ocean habitat, making it a decision you can feel proud of.Good to know
Before embarking on your Whale Shark Encounter, there are a few important details to keep in mind. While the tour is designed for all adventure seekers, travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness due to the swimming involved. For those traveling with infants, they will need to sit on an adult's lap during the boat rides. If you’re planning to use public transportation to reach the meeting point, there are options available nearby. It's crucial to note that safety is a priority, so insurance is included in your booking. This ensures peace of mind while you immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime, swimming alongside the ocean's gentle giants.Reviews
Feedback from previous participants of the Whale Shark Encounter has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the seamless organization and the expertise of the guides. Guests have shared stories of their awe-inspiring moments swimming next to the whale sharks, describing the experience as life-changing and incredibly humbling. The guides’ commitment to conservation and respect for marine life has resonated deeply with travelers, adding an educational dimension to the thrill of the encounter. Many have expressed how the tour exceeded their expectations, with stunning scenery and a supportive atmosphere that made everyone feel comfortable. Overall, the Whale Shark Encounter has left a lasting impression on those who have embarked on this unforgettable journey, with participants eagerly recommending it to friends and family seeking adventure and a connection to nature.
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