We all look for adventurous activities that give us a boost of adrenaline. And, for those intrigued by the mysterious ocean, it offers a whole new world of adventure. Just imagine taking a dive in the water where the magnificent Whale Shark lives. What could be more thrilling that having a one-on-one encounter with the largest fish that rules the sea!
For those of you who’re wondering if any such activity exists, let us tell you that Whale Sharks are the among the most harmless creatures in existence. They feed on plankton and there are a few locations where you can swim along with this rare and gorgeous giant sea-creature!
Here are top 8 destinations where you can hang out with the giant Whale Shark:
1. Isla Holbox, Mexico
Isla Holbox, an island in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is a major attraction for wildlife tourism. Greet the harmless giant while you swim and snorkel in the waters, during the summer season which sees the annual congregation of rare whale sharks.
2. Donsol, Northern Philippines
Explore this underwater world and the realms of rich aquatic species in Donsol, which is one of the best places to spot the rare Whale Shark. Locally known as Butanding, the gracious animal is regularly sighted in Donsol. But, unlike other places, snorkeling in this area is only allowed by the authorities. But, if you’re lucky and patient enough, you can spot as many as 20 Whale Sharks in a day!
3. Utila, Honduras
Utila, a small bay island at the southern end of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, attracts visitors for an opportunity to swim alongside the giant beast, called ‘Old Tom’ by the local fishermen. Utila is popular as the ‘Whale Shark Capital of the Caribbean’ where you can easily spot 18-32 feet long Whale Sharks gliding through the water! The ideal season to visit the place is between March and April.
4. South Mahe, Seychelles
The Seychelles offers a great opportunity to enjoy swimming a few meters off the Whale Shark. This gentle giant frequents the Seychelles waters, especially during October and November, with Mahe island alone having more than 50 dive sites!
5. Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
Listed in the world heritage sites, Ningaloo Reef boasts of having the largest fish in the sea and is the only place in Australia where you can experience the adventure of diving alongside the giant sea-creature in all its glory! Here, you can encounter Whale Sharks up to 12-40 feet in length, between the month of April and July.
6. Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao is popular as a cheap destination for spotting the giant Whale Shark with Southwest Pinnacle and Chumphon Pinnacle being the best spots. While they are not found in as large numbers as in other famed locations, you’ll still have a better chance of spotting the harmless filter feeders between the months of April and June.
7. Gladden Spit, Belize
Capture a close up shot while you swim at a safe distance from the largest fish in the sea. Gladden Spit, Belize is one of the best spots for encountering the Whale Shark. A protected marine reserve, the ideal time to take a Whale Shark diving trip is between April and June.
8. Tofo Beach, Mozambique
Tofo, a small town in southeastern Mozambique attracts divers and visitors because of the huge fish that swim along its coastline, in the warm waters of Indian Ocean. A large amount of plankton is one of the reasons behind this conglomeration of the giant Whale Shark, which makes it a heaven for holidaying with the largest sea-fish!