Swim With Whale Sharks In Holbox Island, Mexico
April 17, 2010 by Ron Williams
Filed under Hotels
Whale Shark season is from mid May to mid September off the Coast of Holbox Island near Cancun Mexico. The largest fish in the world, the Whale Shark reaches lengths of more than 40 feet (13 meters) with a weight in excess of 21 tons. Whale Sharks return to the waters of Holbox year after year due to the distinctive environment and timing of obtainable food which takes place every spring and continues through nearly all of the summer season.
The Whale Shark is a filter feeding fish with a core food intake of plankton and other minute plants and animals and has been observed on occasion feeding on minute schooling fish. The surroundings around Isla Holbox are ideal throughout the summer months as it is uniquely situated close to the merger points of the Caribbean Sea, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. This fusion of three oceans creates a rich seasonal explosion of life.
The Whale Shark poses no threat to humans on a snorkel or diving expedition. In truth, it is an amazing chance to change the incorrect perception that Whale Sharks are man eaters. The Whale Sharks around the Island of Holbox actually appear to enjoy and accept the human interaction and are very gentle and leisurely moving. The experience of swimming with these magnificent fish is awe inspiring.
Isla Holbox delivers the ideal and closest land location in the world to experience an encounter with these very large majestic and peaceful creatures with access only 20-60 minutes from the island by boat. Tours and expeditions from this Mexican island location have been featured by National Geographic, The Discovery Channel, Shark Diver Magazine and many others.
The typical Whale Shark swimming experience requires only a snorkel, fins and mask though most tour operators also require and provide a life vest. After a briefing on guidelines and safety, you will take an early morning boat ride from Holbox Island to the feeding areas of the Whale Sharks where they lazily graze on plankton near the surface. You are then escorted in small groups or pairs with your biologist guide into the water where you swim along side one of natures oldest and largest creatures, it truly is a Jurassic experience!
The calm and measured swimming pace of the Whale Shark makes contact to these impressive fish easy for most people. Children as young as 5 years of age and as old as 90 have swam with the Whale Sharks. The direct interaction with these astounding creatures is a once in a lifetime experience. Getting to the sharks is a journey in itself with schools of dolphin common as well as a range of tropical birds including; Flamingos, Pelicans, Cranes and a wealth of others indigenous to the area.
If you are interested in this wonderful experience, there are a number of great Holbox Island hotels ranging from luxurious boutique hotels to beach cabanas. Isla Holbox is a friendly fishing village hosting a population of around 1500 permanent residents, mostly fishermen, hoteliers and excursion operators. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation on this sleepy Tropical Island and biological playground.
Ron Williams is a freelance travel writer living year round in Tulum, Mexico specializing in information about Holbox Island hotels and life on the Yucatan Peninsula. Feel free to contact Ron directly if you need local tips or information.