Swimming with Whale Sharks in Puerto Princesa
Swim with whale sharks in the crystal-clear waters of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and experience these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
A Responsible Whale Shark Experience
Experience an unforgettable whale shark tour in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and encounter some of the ocean's most impressive animals in their natural habitat. Unlike destinations where whale sharks are attracted through feeding, our approach focuses on responsible wildlife tourism. The animals are observed without feeding, chasing or touching them, allowing their natural behavior and migratory patterns to remain undisturbed.
Swimming and Snorkeling with Whale SharksThe adventure usually begins early in the morning with departure from Baywalk Park toward the offshore waters of Honda Bay. Experienced local spotters search for whale sharks in areas where plankton-rich waters attract these gentle giants. Once a sighting is confirmed and conditions are suitable, you can enter the water for a brief swim or snorkeling encounter with the whale sharks. Seeing one of these enormous fish glide quietly through the clear waters of Palawan is an unforgettable experience.
Whale Shark Season in Puerto PrincesaWhale sharks are wild animals, so sightings can never be guaranteed. The main season for whale shark encounters in Puerto Princesa generally runs from April to October, when sea conditions and plankton availability are often more favorable. Guests should be comfortable swimming in open water and must follow all safety and wildlife-protection instructions given by the local guides. The experience is designed to combine an exciting whale shark swimming tour with responsible marine tourism and respect for Palawan's fragile ecosystem.
Private whale shark tours in Puerto Princesa are available for groups of 1–4 people from ₱20,000 per boat, with larger groups priced according to the number of guests. Please see the full price table below for current group rates.
Whale Shark Swimming – Typical Full-Day Itinerary (Honda Bay / Offshore)
Season: April to October (peak sightings around full moon weeks)
Note: This is not guaranteed — it depends on seasonal patterns and where the sharks are feeding on plankton.
- 🕐 Full-Day Schedule
- 06:30 AM - 7:00 AM — Hotel Pickup
- Pick up from your hotel in Puerto Princesa City (usually within a ~10 km radius).
- 07:00 AM - 7:15 AM — Departure from Baywalk Park
- Safe boarding and departure toward Honda Bay offshore areas.
- 07:15 AM - 9:00 AM — Transit to Whale Shark Zone
- Boat ride out to zones where whale sharks have been spotted on that day. Your guide explains guidelines (no feeding, no chasing, respectful distance, life-vest use).
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Whale Shark Encounter
- Once a whale shark is found, you’ll get instructions on when and how to swim. Swim with these gentle giants — see them from the surface and, when conditions allow, get in for brief snorkel swims alongside them. Guides follow responsible marine tourism protocols — no touch, no feeding.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM — Lunch on Board
- Simple lunch served on the boat with rice and local dishes/fruits.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM — Return Cruise
- Head back toward Baywalk.
- 02:00 PM - 2:30 PM — Hotel Drop-off
- Transfer back to your hotel in Puerto Princesa.
| PAX NO. | PRICE | PRICE (if no sightings) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | ₱ 20,000.00 | ₱ 15,000.00 |
| 5 | ₱ 23,000.00 | ₱ 17,000.00 |
| 6 | ₱ 25,000.00 | ₱ 19,000.00 |
| 7 | ₱ 28,000.00 | ₱ 21,000.00 |
| 8 | ₱ 30,000.00 | ₱ 23,000.00 |
| 9 | ₱ 33,000.00 | ₱ 25,000.00 |
| 10 | ₱ 35,000.00 | ₱ 27,000.00 |
Excluded of 150 eco-tax This fee is collected directly by the local government and supports the conservation and protection of the islands. , valid for 6 months.
