Whale Shark Private Tour

  • Price:

    From: $199 USD per person

  • Duration:

    7-8 hours

  • Destinations:

    Caribbean Sea (Cancun-Isla Mujeres), Playa Norte

  • Availability:

    Monday to Saturday

  • Languages:

    English, Spanish, French

  • Tansfer:

    Pick up and Transfer included in tour

  • City Served:

    Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancun

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Whale Shark Private Tour

Swim alongside the world’s largest fish in the Caribbean waters between Cancun and Isla Mujeres with this Whale Shark Tour; a premium snorkeling experience . This private tour Tulum and private tour Playa del Carmen option lets you witness whale sharks without crowds or rush. From June through September, whale sharks migrate to feed on plankton in these warm waters. Swimming with these gentle giants—some reaching 40 feet—is a peaceful experience guided by certified local experts.

As a family-owned local agency operating in the Riviera Maya since 2018, Carey Tours specializes in small-group experiences (maximum 10 guests) and fully private whale shark tours exclusively for your group.

Snorkeling with a whale shark in clear waters off Cancun, surrounded by vibrant marine life, provided by Carey Tours
Whale shark private tour – Carey Private tours

This tour combines adventure with comfort: early pickup, breakfast, multiple whale shark encounters, fresh ceviche lunch on Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte, and private transportation. It’s a Tulum snorkeling private tour that respects marine life and prioritizes quality. Therefore, it´s ideal for families, couples, groups, and travellers valuing eco-friendly practices and authentic local expertise from guides who know these waters intimately.

Book you adventure today!

Ready to Swim with Whale Sharks?

Swimming with whale sharks is a chance to witness one of the ocean’s gentlest creatures in a way that respects the animal and prioritizes your comfort. Whether celebrating something special or seeking an authentic Caribbean experience without crowds, Carey Tours offers local expertise and an unhurried pace. Over 4,000 guests have trusted our family-owned company since 2018.

Contact us to check availability, ask questions, or book your whale shark tour. 

  • 1
    Stop 1: Hotel Pickup (5:30 AM - 7:30 AM) Private pickup from your accommodation in Tulum (5:30 AM), Playa del Carmen (6:30 AM), or Cancun (7:30 AM). Early start ensures calm seas and optimal sightings. Your bilingual guide shares whale shark insights during the scenic drive to Punta Sam.
  • 2
    Stop 2: Punta Sam Marina (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM) Enjoy traditional Mexican breakfast with fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee. Use facilities, receive snorkeling equipment, and attend the safety briefing covering whale shark etiquette and ocean protocols.
  • 3
    Stop 3: Whale Shark Encounter (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM) Board the boat and head to active feeding zones. Snorkelers rotate in pairs with the guide, swimming alongside whale sharks for several minutes each. Multiple encounters over 1-2 hours include sightings of sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish.
  • 4
    Stop 4: Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Relax at one of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches. Fresh ceviche lunch with drinks at a beachfront location. Free time to swim, rest on white sand, or explore the island's northern tip.
  • 5
    Stop 5: Return Journey (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Depart Isla Mujeres, return to Punta Sam by 2:00 PM, and arrive back at your hotel by mid-afternoon.

    • Convenient pickup from your hotel in Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, or Cancun. Pickup times: Tulum (5:30 AM), Playa del Carmen (6:30 AM), Cancun (7:30 AM). We confirm exact pickup details upon booking. Special locations like Puerto Aventuras and Akumal available with advance notice.

    • Private Guide: Your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience.
    • Private Round-Trip Transportation: Comfortable transport to and from your hotel.
    • Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, featuring delicious Caribbean cuisine.
    • Snacks and Drinks: Refreshments provided throughout the tour.
    • Entrance Fees: All necessary fees for whale shark activities included.
    • Snorkeling Equipment: Gear provided for your underwater exploration – mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket.

    To ensure a fantastic experience, please pack the following essentials:

    • Swimwear and towels
    • Sandals or water shoes
    • Hat or cap
    • Sunglasses
    • Biodegradable sunblock (required for marine protection)
    • Long sleeve shirt or rashguard for sun protection
    • Cash for souvenirs and tips
    • Waterproof bag for personal items
    • Seasickness medication (if prone to motion sickness)
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Change of dry clothes for after the tour
    From $199 USDPer person
    • Max Gests:

      10

    • Ideal for:

      Families, Groups & Friends, Couples, Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

    Private Tours (exclusive boat & guide):

    • 7-10 people: $2,100 USD total
    • 4-6 people: $1,700 USD total
    • 1-3 people: $1,400 USD total

    Note: Pick up in Puerto aventuras, Akumal, Tulum areas on request with extra charge.

     

    Semi-Private Tours (max 10 guests):

    • $229 USD per person (Tulum area)
    • $199 USD per person (Playa del Carmen area)

    Small groups of max. 10 guests

     

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    FAQs

  • 1
    Is this a private tour or shared with others? This is a fully private experience designed exclusively for your group, allowing flexible timing and personalized attention.
  • 2
    Do I need snorkeling experience? No experience is required. Our certified guides provide instructions and supervise you at all times.
  • 3
    Is this tour family-friendly? Yes, this tour is suitable for families with children who are comfortable in the water and follow safety instructions.
  • 4
    What's the difference between semi-private and private? Semi-private tours have max 10 guests. Private tours mean exclusive boat, guide, and flexible schedule for your group onl
  • 5
    Can I touch the whale sharks? No. Mexican law prohibits contact. Maintaining distance protects you and these endangered animals.
  • 6
    How far in advance should I book? Book 2-4 weeks ahead, especially July-August. Reservations 30+ days early get 10% Carey10 discount.
  • 7
    Why choose Carey Tours Riviera Maya? We are a family-owned local company offering certified guides, private transportation, and luxury experiences that avoid crowds and mass tourism.