The annual whale shark season in the Mexican Caribbean is from May to September, during these months between 800 and 1,400 whale sharks approach Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres to feed on plankton and reproduce.
It is the largest fish in the world with an average of 40 feet in length, but it can reach up to 65 feet and weigh up to 34 tons. It is estimated that it has lived in the oceans for 60 million years. It is currently found in all the tropical seas of the world and is believed that they migrate with the currents. It is characterized by its gray color with white dots and lines distributed along the body. These spots are unique in each individual, allowing them to be differentiated from each other. The few specimens that reach adulthood can live up to 150 years.
Its presence constitutes an indicator of the health of the marine ecosystem, so if we protect it indirectly, we are also protecting other species that cohabit with the whale shark
It is currently possible to join whale shark swimming and watching excursions with certified operators. If you join an excursion to swim with the whale shark, we recommend following these tips to make your experience as fun as it is respectful:
• Hire the services of a guide authorized by SEMARNAT, which is the body that controls the number of visitors to prevent the whale sharks from becoming stressed
• Do not obstruct the whale shark’s path, whether by swimming or by boat
• It is prohibited to touch whale sharks. You must stay at least 6 feet away from the head and 12 feet away from the tail
• Swim in silence, without splashing with your fins and without shouting
• Do not throw trash in the water or try to feed the fish
• Use only biodegradable blockers to avoid damaging the whale shark’s ecosystem and food
• Do not use flash
If you wish to carry out this activity or obtain more information, contact Coconut Divers, who in addition to being a SEMARNAT certified operator, is a Sunset World commercial partner:
(+52) 998 883 1484
(+52) 998 147 8138
info@coconutdivers.com